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Zurich offers international career opportunities, high levels of safety and quality of life – all in a city that runs like clockwork.
Many people move to Zurich for a job – and stay because life here simply feels right. Wages are high, the surroundings are clean and safe, and nature is right on your doorstep. Nearly 30% of the population are expats, so you're unlikely to feel isolated.
Companies like Google, UBS, Microsoft, Roche and ABB have their headquarters or major offices in Zurich. If you work internationally, you'll find a stable professional environment here – especially in finance, tech and healthcare.
But Zurich isn't just economically strong. It's the balance of order and freedom that often surprises people: an evening walk by the lake, weekend ski trips without hours of travel, a reliable public transport system, and public offices that don’t grind everything to a halt with paperwork.
Table of Contents
- What does it cost to live in Zurich?
- How can I find a flat in Zurich?
- What are the job prospects in Zurich?
- What about schools and childcare in Zurich?
- What’s expat life like in Zurich?
- How does the healthcare system work?
- What do I need to organise financially?
- How to settle in successfully in Zurich?
- Final tip: smart banking
What does it cost to live in Zurich?
In short: Zurich is expensive, but with smart financial planning, that’s manageable.
Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world. A three-room flat can easily cost more than 3,000 francs a month, especially in central districts. Competition for flats is fierce in popular areas.
Everyday costs are also high: a lunch out might set you back 30 francs, and dinner at least twice as much. Health insurance premiums range from 300 to 500 francs a month depending on the model – plus excess.
But: salaries in Zurich are also high. If you’re working here, you’ll often earn significantly more than in your home country. With a solid budget, there’s still enough left to enjoy life.
How can I find a flat in Zurich?
In short: it’s tough without preparation, but the right strategy will get you there.
Housing is in short supply, and vacancies fill quickly. Key tips: respond to new listings right away, prepare your application (employment contract, passport, debt register extract), and be flexible.
Popular expat areas:
Gold Coast (e.g. Küsnacht): expensive but highly sought-after
Zurich West (District 5): urban, creative, international
Glattpark or Oerlikon: more affordable, well connected
Suburbs: more space, often cheaper, but longer commute
Rental contracts are usually long-term with a three-month notice period. A deposit of up to three months’ rent is standard. Utilities like heating and water are often included, but electricity, internet and TV must be set up separately.
What are the job prospects in Zurich?
In short: demand for skilled workers is high, especially in tech, finance and healthcare.
Unemployment in Zurich is low. The median salary is around 7,000 francs. There’s no national minimum wage, but collective agreements and cantonal rules ensure transparent pay and fair contracts.
Swiss work culture is efficient, respectful and rather formal. Punctuality matters. On the plus side, you get four to five weeks of holiday, flexible working models and widespread remote work.
Language helps: English is often enough in international companies, but German will open many doors both professionally and socially. Many employers offer language courses.
Entry and permits:
EU/EFTA citizens: generally get a B permit without issues.
Non-EU (including the UK): more hurdles; your employer must take action.
What about schools and childcare in Zurich?
In short: the quality of education is high, but it can be expensive.
Public schools in Zurich are free, well organised and welcoming to expat families. Teaching is in German, but many schools offer language support for children who speak other languages.
If you're staying short term or want an international curriculum, private schools such as Zurich International School (ZIS) or ICS are an option – but fees often exceed 20,000 francs a year.
Have preschool children? Daycare spots are expensive (up to 2,500 francs a month) and in short supply. Early registration is essential. Some employers help cover costs.
What’s expat life like in Zurich?
Zurich is quiet, efficient and well organised. Trains are punctual. Shops close early. And yes – waste separation is taken seriously. But this creates a stable, reliable living environment.
There’s no shortage of things to do in your spare time – from lakeside swimming areas and museums to the Street Parade. In winter? Skiing. In summer? Swimming, barbecuing, strolling.
The Swiss are polite but reserved. Making friends can take time, but happens naturally through sports clubs, parent groups, music associations or meetups. Good starting points include InterNations and Meetup.com. Patience, openness and basic German go a long way.
"Switzerland doesn’t just run on trains. It runs on structure. And if you don’t understand that structure early on, it feels like a beautifully organised maze – just without a map." – Roman Balzan, Chief Marketing Officer, Alpian
How does the healthcare system work?
In short: healthcare is excellent, but expensive and privately managed.
Everyone living in Switzerland must take out basic health insurance (KVG) within 90 days of arrival. This covers GP visits, hospital stays and medication. You can choose your provider freely. Monthly premiums are between 300 and 500 francs.
You can also take out supplementary insurance – for private doctors or alternative therapies, for example. Some international policies may cover you initially, but be sure to check.
Tip: find a GP early – many speak English.
What do I need to organise financially?
In short: If you're living in Zurich as an expat, you need a flexible financial solution – ideally with a multi-currency account and digital access.
Bank account: A Swiss account is essential for your salary, rent and bills. Traditional banks can be slow to open one. Alpian offers a free Swiss bank account in CHF, EUR, USD and GBP, with fair exchange rates and instant access via app.
Taxes:
With a B permit: withholding tax is deducted directly from your salary
Since 2021: anyone can request a regular tax declaration, regardless of income
Check if a double taxation agreement applies
Pension:
AHV and occupational pension: mandatory
Pillar 3a: voluntary, tax-advantaged, up to 7,056 francs per year
Investments: If you’re able to set money aside, explore your options. All investments carry risk, but digital wealth management gives you access from just a few thousand francs – along with personal guidance.
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Open your free multi-currency bank account in only 10 minutes.
How to settle in successfully in Zurich?
In short: with good preparation, initiative, and a touch of calm.
Here are five tips for a smooth start:
Learn the language: German helps. Standard German is enough, but a few Swiss German words are a bonus.
Build a network: Connect – at work, through sports clubs, or at city events.
Get the essentials sorted: Bank account, mobile plan, register with Serafe – do this early.
Discover local traditions: From Sechseläuten to Knabenschiessen – Zurich is full of culture.
Don't just function – enjoy: A coffee on the Limmatquai can do wonders.
Final tip: smart banking
Zurich can be demanding. But moving here is worth it. With good preparation, you’ll get the most out of what the city has to offer. And if you think flexibly and digitally, you’ll save not only money – but time too.
Alpian was built for people like you:
Multi-currency account in CHF, EUR, USD and GBP
Fair exchange rates, no hidden fees
Digital wealth management, personal and transparent
100% digital, open your account in under ten minutes
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