Cost of Living in Zurich

The cost of living in Zurich is high, even by the standards of an expensive country. Aside from accommodation, transport, food and education, expats will also have to pay various taxes, licence fees and insurance premiums.

The Mercer Cost of Living Survey for 2024 ranks Zurich as the 3rd most expensive of 226 cities around the world. That said, competitive salaries and an excellent quality of life mitigate the high living expenses. It’s important for expats to anticipate their living expenses in Zurich to negotiate a good salary and plan ahead.

Cost of accommodation in Zurich

Most residents, including locals, rent accommodation in Zurich, so competition is stiff for the relatively few available properties.

You’ll also most likely have to budget to pay utility bills on top of rent. Although it’s possible to apply for exemptions, TV and radio licence fees are also something worth taking into account when considering utility payments.

Expats living in Zurich should get into the habit of recycling. The council taxes residents per rubbish bag, and you can save a considerable amount by separating your rubbish into plastic, glass, and aluminium and disposing of these at free recycling sites around Zurich.

Finding Accommodation in Zurich

Cost of healthcare in Zurich

In line with Swiss law, private health insurance is compulsory in Zurich, and expats will need to get covered within three months of their arrival. Health insurance is by no means cheap in Switzerland, and it is worth shopping around to find a suitable package for your individual needs.

The cost of health insurance will largely depend on the level of coverage you choose, where you live and if you have supplemental cover. If you’re on any form of long-term medication, you should check whether this is covered by your health insurance policy. Dental treatment is not covered by health insurance.

Hospitals in Zurich
Health Insurance in Switzerland

Cost of transport in Zurich

While Zurich’s public transport network is excellent and extensive, it isn’t cheap. Regular users should invest in monthly and annual transport passes, which will save a considerable amount of money in the long term.

The city is divided into transport zones. There often isn’t a big difference in rental prices between Zurich and its outskirts, so many expats find that living closer to work is the best way to save, allowing them to commute by bicycle. That said, you’ll need to buy an extra ticket if you wish to transport your bicycle on the train.

Owning and maintaining a car in Zurich is costly and quite unnecessary for most expats. Public parking fees quickly add up. Drivers also have to pay to park in residential areas, so expats planning on getting a car should check the rates for residential parking in different areas and suburbs when they are searching for a home.

Getting Around in Zurich

Cost of education in Zurich

Public schools in Zurich have high standards and are free, but the language of instruction will be Swiss German. This makes them an unsuitable option for most expats. That said, those who are planning on settling down in Zurich in the long term and have children young enough to adapt quickly may want to consider this option.

Some bilingual schools exist, but tuition at these institutions can be costly – and it gets even pricier for expats who’d rather send their children to an international school that teaches their home country’s curriculum in their home language.

While international schools offer many benefits, including excellent teaching standards and facilities, tuition fees are also steep.

Education in Zurich
International Schools in Zurich

Cost of groceries in Zurich

As is the case with most things in the city, groceries are expensive in Zurich. Still, expats moving to Zurich can make the most of their grocery budgets by shopping at cheaper supermarkets. Planning meals in advance, buying non-perishables in bulk and shopping for in-season produce can help save on grocery bills. Additionally, supermarkets often sell perishable goods nearing their sell-by date at a discount after 5pm.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Zurich

With a few Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, Zurich’s culinary scene is an exciting adventure waiting to be explored. Unfortunately, the cost of eating out in Zurich is quite high, and it’s a pleasure expats are likely to only experience occasionally. That said, there are a few strategies that budget-conscious expats can employ to make their entertainment budget stretch further, such as eating out at lunchtime when restaurants frequently offer set menus at lower prices.

Thanks to its beautiful and diverse natural landscape, Zurich offers its residents plenty of opportunities to be outside. As such, much of the lifestyle in Zurich is centred around hiking and skiing in the Swiss Alps. The city also boasts an eclectic nightlife scene, but drinks at bars and clubs, particularly cocktails, are quite steep. Revellers who are looking to enjoy a night out on the town regularly are advised to budget well.

Shopping, Entertainment and Outdoor Activities in Zurich