Nestled in the heart of central Switzerland, Lucerne is a city that's as enchanting and scenic as it is affordable and easily accessible. Lucerne is a transit hub with an international airport near the city and an excellent train connection. Nicknamed the 'City of Bridges', Lucerne's old town is famous for its medieval heritage, enchanting architecture, and beautiful bridges, including the Chapel Bridge. Lucerne's Day Trips to Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi, Beng Lengthtimger and culture attractions are reverberated to a larger audience internationally. Lucerne is now becoming an increasingly desirable expat destination due to its blissful combination of scenic beauty, high living standards, a vibrant economy, a rich cultural heritage, and a multifaceted social life.
Tips for expats in Lucerne
Visa requirements
Expats from EU countries or with a Swiss residence permit are exempt from obtaining a work permit, while non-EU nationals require authorization from the Federal Administration Office. It is advisable to confirm visa requirements well in advance of arrival to avoid unexpected problems.
Language resources
Switzerland's official languages are German, French, Italian, and Romansh, and it is beneficial to learn some Swiss German before arrival to communicate with locals and employers. Many educational institutions, including the University of Lucerne, offer intensive language courses for beginners or advanced learners.
Cost of living for expats in Lucerne
Housing
Lucerne offers a range of reasonably priced housing options, from shared rooms in student dormitories to single-family houses in exclusive neighborhoods. Rent for a room in a shared house averages around 450 CHF per month, while a one-bedroom apartment costs around 1,200 CHF, a two-bedroom apartment around 1,850 CHF, and a three-plus bedroom house around 3,500 CHF monthly. It's essential to ensure housing contracts include heating, hot water, and utility costs.
Groceries
Lucerne's grocery stores offer a wide variety of international and local products at reasonable prices. A standard weekly grocery shopping budget for a single person costs around 150 CHF, a couple costs around 250 CHF, and a family of four costs around 450 CHF. Fruits and vegetables are relatively cheaper than in the neighboring countries.
Transportation
Expats can use various modes of transportation, including public transit, bicycles, and cars to reach various destinations in Lucerne. A monthly public transportation pass costs around 80 CHF, while a monthly bicycle rental costs approximately 250 CHF, covering the first 50 km each day. If you wish to commute with your car, it is advisable to purchase a parking permit to avoid high fines for parking violations.
Climate in Lucerne
Lucerne enjoys a temperate climate with moderate temperatures and precipitation all year round. Summers (June to August) are pleasant with average temperatures of 18°C, while winters (December to February) are milder and snowy with temperatures dropping to -2°C. Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are transitional seasons with mild temperatures, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds.
Job market in Lucerne
Lucerne has a thriving economy driven by the finance, technology, and healthcare industries. The city is home to numerous global financial giants, including Swiss Life Holding, UBS, Swiss Re Corporate Solutions, and Tamedia. Lucerne also offers great prospects for tech startups and small businesses, with the University of Lucerne's Center for Entrepreneurship (CELU) providing a hub for entrepreneurs and innovators. Employers offer competitive salary packages, and English is widely spoken in the business world of Lucerne.
Healthcare in Lucerne
Lucerne boasts an excellent healthcare system with several world-class hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The University Hospital Luzerne (TRAUMANZENTRUM LUZERN AG) is a renowned academic hospital with state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge research, and a team of highly skilled medical practitioners. Expatriates are advised to invest in private health insurance, as public health insurance is not always comprehensive enough to cover all medical expenses, including dental care, prescription medication, and maternity costs.
Transport in Lucerne
Lucerne's efficient public transportation system makes it easy for expats to travel around the city and region. The city's tram network is convenient and regular, with dedicated nighttime services running on weekends and public holidays. Trains connect Lucerne to all major Swiss cities, including Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Lucerne's proximity to major highways and motorways makes it easy to drive, and the city is heavily cycle-friendly, with bike lanes and bike parking facilities plentiful throughout the city.
Safety in Lucerne
Lucerne is a safe city, ranked among the world's top 25 safest cities, with a low crime rate and a highly effective police force. Expatriates are advised to avoid high-risk areas, most notably the railway station at nighttime, and take necessary precautions, such as limiting the amount of valuables carried, securing belongings, and being aware of pick-pockets.
Neighborhoods in Lucerne
Lucerne Old Town
Lucerne's Old Town is a charming, historic neighborhood brimming with stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, and ancient bridges such as the famous Chapel Bridge, dating back to the 14th century. Lucerne's Old Town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage and locals' lively social scene.
Mausolee Quartier
Lucerne's Mausolee Quartier is Modern, newly built neighborhood with a blend of chic offices, contemporary architecture, trendy restaurants, and luxurious living spaces. Populated with young working professionals, this neighborhood offers a lively social scene and quick access to the city's major destinations.
Cronenberg
Located north of Lucerne's Old Town, the Cronenberg neighborhood is a laid-back, family-friendly neighborhood with a mix of historic and modern-day buildings, lined with wide sidewalks, lush green parks, and cafes. Cronenberg's numerous open and green places are perfect for enjoying Lucerne's scenic beauty.
Attractions in Lucerne
Lake Lucerne
Lake Lucerne is a stunning body of freshwater, surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush greenery, and charming towns. This tranquil lake invites tourists and locals alike to partake in various watersports activities such as sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and swimming.
Lucerne's Old Town (Altstadt)
Lucerne's Old Town is an enchanting and historic neighborhood that is home to numerous significant landmarks and attractions, including the Chapel Bridge, the Lucerne Town Hall (Stadthaus), and the Swiss Museum of Transport, showcasing Switzerland's evolution as a global transportation hub.
Mount Pilatus
Mount Pilatus is an impressive 2128m peak, boasting magnificent views of Lake Lucerne, the Swiss Alps, and the Jura Mountains that are accessible via a cogwheel train. Mount Pilatus attracts hikers, paragliders, and adventurous visitors all year round.
International Schools in Lucerne
Die Englische ReformrealSchule
Laselstrasse 142, 6003 Lucerne
Founded in 1890, Die Englische ReformrealSchule is a renowned international school in Lucerne offering primary and secondary education based on the Swiss educational system, closely based on the British curriculum, with English as the primary language of instruction. This school caters to students between ages 4 to 19 years, encouraging critical and creative thinking through dynamic classroom activities and field trips.
Höhere Graue Schule (HGS)
Lucernermatte 20, 6005 Luzern
Located in Luzern's vibrant university quarter, Höhere Graue Schule (HGS) is an exclusive international school with a modern, peaceful learning environment that encourages students to indulge in practical application, talents, and achievements. This school offers primary, secondary, and international baccalaureate programs to students between ages 3 to 18 years.
