Cost of Living in Switzerland for Students & Family in 2024
Switzerland is located in the middle of Europe, offering stunning views of the Alps and thriving cities with excellent living standards. Surrounded by Germany, France, Italy, and Austria, Switzerland is unique in how well its cultures, languages, and customs blend.
Swiss healthcare, education, and economy are world-renowned due to their superior quality. At the same time, its living expenses are among the highest in the world.
To learn more about the cost of living in Switzerland, continue reading.
Average Cost of Living in Switzerland for International Students
When considering where to continue their education, many international students choose Switzerland. Look at the table below for the expenses to expect as an international:
Average Cost of Living in Switzerland for Bachelors, Couples & Families
Knowing the cost of living in Switzerland is essential for everyone to make wise financial decisions, including individuals, couples, and parents. Examine the following table to gain a better understanding of the finances:
Cost of Living in Major Cities in Switzerland
The following is a list of major towns in Switzerland with average cost of living:
Cost of Living in Bern
The average cost of living in Bern is as follows:
Cost of Living in Zurich
The average cost of living in Zurich is as follows:
Cost of Living in Geneva
The average cost of living in Geneva is as follows:
Cost of Living in Basel
The average cost of living in Basel is as follows:
Cost of Living in Lausanne
The average cost of living in Lausanne is as follows:
Factors Impacting the Cost of Living in Switzerland
The primary factors influencing Switzerland's cost of living are listed below:
1. Location
Swiss accommodation prices vary widely, especially in large cities and villages. The most expensive cities are Basel, Bern, Geneva, and Zurich. Their main issue is the cost of staying there. However, rural and suburban areas have cheaper rent.
2. Lifestyle
Lifestyle choice has a major impact on the average cost of living in Switzerland. For instance, joining different clubs, eating at premium restaurants, etc. However, home-cooked meals, free outdoor activities, and affordable neighbourhoods cut an expat's cost of living.
3. Housing
Switzerland's high cost of living makes real estate the most significant expense. Rental fees are even higher than in rural areas. Geneva one-room apartments cost CHF 2,800. In smaller cities, the same room costs CHF 1,500 or less. Due to Switzerland's high real estate prices, demand remains constant.
4. Transportation
Bus, tram, train, and public transit are well-developed and efficient. All public transport choices provide month-long passes for CHF 70 to CHF 100, depending on the city. Car upkeep, insurance, and petrol are expensive. Parking is expensive in certain places, making public transportation cheaper.
5. Utilities and Groceries
Switzerland has some of Europe's highest food and utility prices. A typical 85-square-meter flat costs CHF 150–300 per month for utilities, including energy. Food shop pricing varies. Aldi and Lidle cater to budget shoppers, whereas Globus and Coop, two premium grocery stores, are unaffordable. Therefore, regular dining out raises living costs in Switzerland.
What is the Average Income in Switzerland?
Switzerland's average wage is CHF 80,000 in 2024. However, industry, credentials, and location significantly affect income levels. Large towns like Basel, Geneva, and Zurich will always be expensive. Moreover, it varies on city and lifestyle:
- Student: Most Swiss students pay for activities with pocket money, part-time work, and subsidies. A shared unit rental, university housing, transport, food, and other expenses cost CHF 1,500 to CHF 2,500 per month. Assistance and part-time work bring in CHF 20,000–30,000 each year.
- Bachelor: Bachelors in Swiss cities, such as young professionals, can earn between CHF 40,000 and CHF 65,000. It covers rent, public transit, groceries, and other expenses. Since Geneva and Zurich have higher prices, the latter amount is more reasonable for one's lifestyle.
- Family: A four-person household needs between CHF 100,000 and CHF 150,000 per year for rent, groceries, transit, schools and utilities. Simple examples include Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Housing and healthcare cost families the most, followed by childcare and education.
See the table below for an overview of Swiss salaries:
How Expensive is Switzerland Compared to Other Countries?
Compared to 90% of other nations, Switzerland's high cost of living ranks it substantially higher. For a comparison between Swiss and other nations' costs of living, see the table below:
Tips for Reducing the Cost of Living in Switzerland
If you want to cut the average cost of living in Switzerland, then consider these tips:
Renting a flat may get expensive, mainly if you live in a big city or alone. Due to this, living in a shared flat or flat with others can save you hundreds of Swiss francs each month.
For students, university housing or other lodgings may be much less expensive. For instance, even in Zurich or Geneva, the monthly rent can be as low as CHF 400.
Students can get discounts at eateries, movie theatres, and retail stores. Ensure you have your student ID to take advantage of these savings and lower your daily expenses.
Get a Half-Fare Card or a Swiss Travel Pass to save money on your train and other public transport trips. Most colleges provide free or heavily discounted public transport cards, which can result in monthly savings of CHF 80–100.
Aldi and Lidl are two reasonably priced grocery chains in Switzerland. Migros and Coop both provide quality at an occasionally more expensive price. To save money on groceries, look for weekly specials and big discounts.
The average cost of living in Switzerland is high, yet one can manage one's budget by being frugal with expenditures, making smart decisions, and taking advantage of deals.
