Relocation to Zürich
Switzerland's largest city and global financial hub, Zürich offers outstanding career opportunities, international community, and the highest quality of life.
Welcome to your complete guide to relocating to Zürich. Whether you're moving for work, lifestyle, or family, this page will walk you through everything you need to know — from finding housing and understanding costs to navigating permits and connecting with local experts. Let's make your Zürich move smooth and successful.
Why Choose Zürich
Zürich combines the best of Switzerland: career opportunities, international lifestyle, and unmatched quality of life. Here's what makes it special.
Financial Powerhouse
Home to UBS, Credit Suisse, and hundreds of fintech startups. Zürich is Switzerland's undisputed financial capital.
Highest Quality of Life
Consistently ranked #1 globally for quality of life, with world-class healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Safe & Efficient
Switzerland's safest large city with punctual public transport, clean streets, and low crime rates.
Thriving Tech & Startup Hub
Google, Disney+, and hundreds of startups. Zürich's tech scene rivals London and Berlin.
Welcoming International Community
32% of residents are foreign nationals. English widely spoken in business and daily life.
Excellent Education System
World-class international schools, bilingual programs, and top-ranked universities (ETH, University of Zürich).
Living in Zürich
From quality of life to finding the perfect neighborhood, here's what daily life in Zürich looks like. Click each section to learn more.
Quality of Life
Zürich consistently ranks as one of the world's best cities to live in:
- Healthcare: World-class hospitals (University Hospital, Triemli), English-speaking doctors, mandatory insurance ensures access for all
- Safety: One of Europe's safest cities, low crime rates, safe to walk at night
- Culture: 50+ museums, opera house, Tonhalle concert hall, vibrant arts scene
- Nature: Lake Zürich, Üetliberg mountain (30 min from city center), Alps within 1-2 hours
International Community
Zürich is one of Europe's most international cities:
- 32% foreign nationals from 170+ countries
- English widely spoken in business, banking, tech sectors
- International networking: Expat clubs, InterNations, professional groups
- Multilingual environment: German (Swiss German), English, French, Italian
Neighborhoods for Expats
Popular expat neighborhoods in Zürich:
- Gold Coast (Küsnacht, Zollikon): Lakeside luxury, international schools, villas & large apartments. Rent: CHF 2,500-5,000/month (2BR)
- Kreis 1 (Old Town): City center, walkable, cultural attractions, charming but expensive. Rent: CHF 2,000-4,000/month (1BR)
- Oerlikon (Kreis 11): Modern, affordable, excellent transport, family-friendly. Rent: CHF 1,500-2,800/month (2BR)
- Fluntern (Kreis 7): Quiet, green, close to University & ETH, popular with academics. Rent: CHF 1,800-3,200/month (2BR)
Cost of Living in Zürich
Zürich is one of the world's most expensive cities, but salaries reflect that. Here's what you can expect to spend monthly, depending on your situation.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1BR apartment (city center) | CHF 1,800–2,500 |
| 1BR apartment (outside center) | CHF 1,200–1,800 |
| Public transport (monthly pass) | CHF 85 |
| Groceries (single person) | CHF 400–600 |
| Health insurance (mandatory) | CHF 300–500 |
Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland within 3 months of arrival. With 60+ insurers and varying prices (CHF 300-500/month), it can be overwhelming. Get expert advice to find the right coverage for your needs and budget.
Free consultation with insurance specialists
Relocation Essentials
Once you arrive in Zürich, there are four critical administrative steps you must complete. Here's your checklist in the right order.
Register with Local Authorities
Within 14 days of arrival, register at your local Kreisbüro (district office) with your rental contract, passport, and work permit.
Open a Swiss Bank Account
Essential for salary payments and bill management. Neobanks (Yapeal, Neon) offer fast English-language onboarding; traditional banks (UBS, CS) require appointments.
Get Health Insurance
Mandatory within 3 months of arrival. Choose from 60+ insurers. Typical cost: CHF 300-500/month. Use comparison tools or consult Expat-Savvy.ch.
Apply for Residence/Work Permit
Your employer typically handles work permit (B permit). EU/EFTA citizens have easier processes. Non-EU requires job offer before permit application.
Working in Zürich
Zürich's job market is thriving across finance, tech, consulting, and pharma. Here's what you need to know about working here.
Key Sectors
- Finance & Banking: UBS, Credit Suisse, wealth management, private banking
- Tech & IT: Google, Disney+, startups, fintech, SaaS
- Consulting: McKinsey, BCG, Bain, PwC, Deloitte, EY
- Pharmaceuticals: R&D centers, biotech, life sciences
Salary Insights
Family Life in Zürich
Relocating with children? Zürich offers excellent schools, outdoor activities, and a safe environment for families. Here's what makes it family-friendly.
Education
International schools (ZIS, Inter-Community School), bilingual programs, excellent public education system.
Activities
Lake swimming, Üetliberg hiking, Zürich Zoo, Opera House, playgrounds, family-friendly museums.
Safety & Healthcare
Among world's safest cities, world-class pediatric care, clean air, excellent infrastructure.
Specialized Zürich Services
Need help with specific aspects of your move? Explore our Zürich-focused service pages for detailed guidance and local expert connections.
Housing in Zürich
Find apartments in Gold Coast, Kreis 1, Oerlikon. Expert housing search support.
Immigration in Zürich
Work permits, Migrationsamt, Kreisbüro registration. Local immigration expertise.
Finance in Zürich
Banking, neobanks (Yapeal, Neon), wealth management. Paradeplatz financial hub.
Advisory Zug (Tax Planning)
HNWI & entrepreneurs: Zug's low taxes (15-22%), Crypto Valley, company formation.
Trusted Relocation Providers
Don't navigate Zürich's relocation process alone. These experienced agencies specialize in helping expats settle smoothly. Compare their services and get free consultations.
Prime Relocation
- Full-service Zürich relocations
- Gold Coast & expat neighborhood experts
- English-language support
Auris Relocation
- Corporate global mobility specialist
- Immigration & permits expertise
- 25+ years experience
Anchor Relocation
- Family & corporate relocations
- 20+ years experience
- Settling-in & education support
Relocating Multiple Employees to Zürich?
ReloFinder connects you with 50+ vetted agencies. Get up to 5 competitive quotes — 100% anonymous, transparent, and risk-free. Save up to 40% on corporate relocation costs.
Learn More About Corporate ServicesReady to Start Your Zürich Journey?
Join thousands of expats who made Zürich their new home.
✓ 32% International Community • ✓ 4.7/5 Expat Satisfaction • ✓ 6–8 Weeks Setup