Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, is a global center for banking and finance. Nestled on the banks of Lake Zurich and surrounded by picturesque mountains, the city offers a high quality of life with excellent healthcare, education, and public transportation systems. Expats are drawn to Zurich for its diverse job market, safety, and cultural attractions, including world-class museums, art galleries, and a vibrant food scene.
Tips for expats in Zurich
Visa requirements
Most expats need a work permit or residence permit to live and work in Zurich. EU/EFTA citizens may stay up to 90 days without registration, while non-EU/EFTA citizens must apply before arriving in Switzerland.
Language resources
German is the official language of Zurich, but English is widely spoken. Language courses and immersion programs are offered by various institutions, including the Volkshochschule Zurich and Berlitz Zurich.
Cost of living for expats in Zurich
Housing
A room in a shared house costs around 800-1,100 CHF per month, a one-bedroom apartment starts at 1,800 CHF, while a two-bedroom apartment ranges from 2,300-3,500 CHF. A three or more bedroom house starts around 3,800 CHF and can reach up to 8,000 CHF or more, depending on location and amenities.
Groceries
Groceries in Zurich are relatively expensive due to import taxes. A weekly grocery basket for two adults may cost around 120-180 CHF, depending on food preferences and dietary restrictions.
Transportation
A monthly transportation pass covering all modes (train, tram, bus, and boat) costs around 80 CHF for adults and 60 CHF for children. A single ticket for a 1-hour journey is approximately 4.40 CHF.
Climate in Zurich
Zurich experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is generally mild with occasional rainfall. Summer (June to August) is warm with daytime temperatures ranging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. Winter (December to February) brings snow and temperatures around freezing, offering opportunities for winter sports.
Job market in Zurich
The main industries in Zurich are finance, banking, and insurance. Other growing sectors include information technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. The city boasts a low unemployment rate of approximately 2.4%, as of 2020.
Healthcare in Zurich
Zurich's healthcare system is world-class, with highly trained medical professionals and state-of-the-art facilities. Expats should have mandatory health insurance to access the public healthcare system. Regular check-ups are covered by insurance, and there are numerous private and public hospitals throughout the city.
Transport in Zurich
Zurich offers a highly efficient public transportation system connecting the entire city and surrounding areas by trains, trams, buses, and boats. A uniform system-wide pricing scheme is in place, allowing travelers to change modes of transportation without additional fees within a 60-minute timeframe.
Safety in Zurich
Zurich is known for its low crime rates, cleanliness, and overall safety. Expats should take general safety precautions as they would in any city, but crime rarely poses a concern for everyday life.
Neighborhoods in Zurich
Downtown Zurich (City)
This area is the heart of Zurich, featuring a mix of historic buildings, luxury shops, and a vibrant nightlife. The perfect location for expats who seek a lively and central neighborhood.
Enge
Located on the western side of Lake Zurich, Enge offers picturesque views and a more relaxed atmosphere, while still being close to the city center. Ideal for expats who appreciate nature and outdoor activities.
Seefeld
Seefeld is centered around the beautiful Lake Zurich, offering a variety of recreational activities, charming cafes, and restaurants. This neighborhood is particularly popular among expat families and professionals.
Oerlikon
An up-and-coming neighborhood offering modern housing, trendy restaurants, and a bustling atmosphere. Oerlikon is an attractive option for expats looking for a vibrant and affordable area.
Attractions in Zurich
Old Town (Altstadt)
Zurich's Old Town features medieval architecture, historic churches, and picturesque streets, offering an immersive look into the city's rich past.
Kunsthaus Zurich
This world-renowned art museum showcases an extensive collection of works by Swiss artists and international masters.
Uetliberg
For breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes, expats often hike or take a cable car to the top of Uetliberg.
International Schools in Zurich
Zurich International School (ZIS)
Wadenswil
ZIS is a leading international school with campuses in Wadenswil and Birmensdorf, offering the International Baccalaureate (IB) program to students ages 3-18.
International School of Zurich North (ISZN)
Winterthur
ISZN is an IB World school providing education to students ages 3-18, focusing on developing bilingualism through its English-German program.
