Switzerland is a beautiful country with an impeccable infrastructure and breathtaking landscapes. It offers excellent outdoor recreational activities to explore and an amazing culture. It has a strong healthcare system and an excellent education system. Besides, there is always a good excuse to eat chocolate and pizza with lots of cheese.
That said, here’s what you need to know before moving to Zurich!
It’s expensive
Switzerland lives up to its reputation for being one of the world’s most expensive countries to live in. When compared to the US and the rest of Europe, the cost of living is quite high.
So, what exactly do we mean by expensive?
Household expenditure and day-to-day expenses are significantly higher than in neighboring countries. Because of the high living cost, most residents prefer to do their grocery shopping at the border in France or Germany to save money.
The good thing is that these high expenses are somewhat offset by the great living standards and high wages.
Accommodation options available
As you would expect living in an expensive city such as Zurich, housing costs are pretty steep. The average cost of buying a house is about $1 million. Of course, this depends on your chosen canton. Nevertheless, owning a home may be beyond reach for most people which makes leasing your most viable option.
Luckily, there are plenty of accommodation options to meet your needs and budget. Besides, the city has diverse neighborhoods with unique qualities and features.
You may consider renting one of the neatly furnished apartments available in Zurich as you familiarize yourself with the city’s neighborhoods. These are way more convenient and affordable than staying at a hotel, not to mention, they are fully serviced, more spacious, and allow you to enjoy similar hotel-stay perks like free utilities, maid service and comfort.
The transport system
Switzerland’s public transport system is probably the best in the world. It features a vast and well-equipped transport network that connects every major city and town via the railway station.
Besides, it’s a lot cheaper and more convenient compared to driving or renting a car. Between parking fees, gas costs, taxation, and the price of the car itself, driving can dig a hole in your pocket. If you’re looking to minimize the high transport costs, acquiring a Swiss travel pass is crucial.
Recreational activities
Zurich has numerous affordable recreational activities that you can engage in such as cycling, hiking, art museums, and so on. You don’t want to live in another country and not experience what the city has to offer.
If you’re a sports enthusiast, then Zurich will feel like heaven. Keeping busy and active is very easy in this city. The ski season that runs from November to March during winter allows you to enjoy the country’s slopes.
The city is also fairly compact, which makes biking and walking the best way to get around. Zurich’s hiking trails are some of the best in the world.
Other sporting activities include snowboarding, swimming, cross-country skiing and snow biking.
Climate and environment
Zurich experiences rainfall throughout the year, but its climate is generally warm and temperate. It has four seasons: spring which begins in April and ends in June, winter from December to February, summer during the months of September and October, and fall, which runs from September to December.
Spring is characterized by clear skies and glowing sunshine. It is considered the best time of the year to enjoy and experience the city’s outdoor recreational activities. Winters, on the other hand, are gray and gloomy.
The city is well-maintained and very passionate when it comes to protecting the environment and climate. There are numerous projects that have been implemented to aid environmental preservation.
The education system
Zurich has an excellent education system that comprises public, private, international and boarding schools. Over 90% of residents prefer to send their kids to country state schools. Secondary and primary education is free for both citizens and people with valid working visas.
The education system offers many holidays. The main one is during summer andis between six to eight weeks long. Other holidays take place during Christmas, autumn and spring breaks.
With such an excellent educational system, Zurich is a great place to raise children. There are numerous outdoor activities and child-friendly facilities to explore. In addition, the city is very safe, which makes it possible to teach children how to be independent from an early age.
Time to head to Zurich?
If so, expect to have an amazing time in this city. Take time to enjoy the many beautiful rivers and lakes, the magnificent scenery, and breathtaking hiking trails.
Sure, it can be expensive to live here, but one thing is for sure, you’re getting your money’s worth!
We hope that this article gives you a rough idea of what to expect if you are moving to the city. Good luck in your move!
