Relocation to Lausanne
Switzerland's French-speaking innovation hub — Lausanne offers lakeside beauty, world-class universities, and a dynamic international community.
Welcome to Lausanne — a city where education, culture, and nature meet. Set on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by vineyards, Lausanne is known for its prestigious universities, Olympic spirit, and vibrant French-speaking lifestyle. Here's your guide to relocating to Lausanne.
Why Choose Lausanne
Lausanne stands out as Switzerland's French-speaking university hub, combining academic excellence with stunning lakeside living and innovative spirit.
University Hub
Home to EPFL (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology), University of Lausanne, and IMD Business School — global academic leaders.
Olympic Capital
Headquarters of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and 50+ international sports federations. Olympic Museum a landmark.
French-Speaking Lifestyle
French is the primary language, creating an authentic Romandie (French-Swiss) experience. English common in academia and multinational companies.
Lakeside Living & Vineyards
Stunning Lake Geneva waterfront, UNESCO Lavaux vineyards nearby, surrounded by natural beauty. Premium outdoor lifestyle.
Thriving Innovation & Startup Scene
EPFL Innovation Park, emerging tech startups, research excellence. Vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Access to Geneva & Alps
40 minutes to Geneva by train, 1 hour to world-class ski resorts. Perfect central location in Romandie.
Living in Lausanne
Lausanne combines a small-city feel with big opportunities. Expand the sections below to learn more about daily life here.
Quality of Life
Lausanne offers exceptional quality of life:
- Safety: Very safe city with low crime rates, family-friendly
- Healthcare: CHUV (University Hospital), excellent care, English-speaking doctors
- Culture: Museums, theaters, festivals (Montreux Jazz nearby), Olympic Museum
- Outdoor access: Lake Geneva for sailing, vineyards, Alps within 1 hour for skiing
International Community
Lausanne has a vibrant international community:
- 35% foreign nationals from around the world
- English common in academia (EPFL, UNIL), international businesses
- Student atmosphere: Young, dynamic, international university community
- Expat networks: InterNations, professional clubs, international school communities
Neighborhoods for Expats
Popular neighborhoods in Lausanne and surrounding areas:
- Ouchy: Lakeside, waterfront living, restaurants, Olympic Museum. Rent: CHF 2,000-3,200/month (2BR)
- Chailly: Residential, family-friendly, near EPFL, green spaces. Rent: CHF 1,800-2,800/month (3BR)
- Flon: Trendy, nightlife, young professionals, urban living. Rent: CHF 1,800-2,600/month (2BR)
- Lutry: Suburban, vineyards, peaceful, lakeside village. Rent: CHF 1,800-2,800/month (3BR)
Cost of Living in Lausanne
Lausanne is more affordable than Geneva but still premium by global standards. Here's what to expect for monthly expenses.
| Category | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1BR apartment (city center) | CHF 1,600–2,600 |
| Public transport (monthly pass) | CHF 70–85 |
| Groceries (single person) | CHF 600 |
| Health insurance (mandatory) | CHF 300–480 |
Health insurance is mandatory in Switzerland within 3 months of arrival. With 60+ insurers and varying prices, it can be overwhelming. Get expert advice to find the right coverage for your needs and budget.
Free consultation with insurance specialists
Relocation Essentials
Here's how to get started once you arrive in Lausanne. Follow these steps for a smooth relocation.
Register with Local Commune
Within 14 days of arrival, register at your local Commune (Lausanne city or surrounding areas). Bring: rental contract, passport, and work permit (if applicable).
Open a Swiss Bank Account
Choose between neobanks (Yapeal, Neon) for speed or traditional banks (UBS, Credit Suisse, Cantonal Bank Vaud) for full services. Most salaries require a Swiss IBAN.
Take Out Mandatory Health Insurance
You must have health insurance within 3 months. Choose from 60+ providers (CHF 300-480/month). Get advice from Expat-Savvy.ch.
Apply for Residence/Work Permit
Your employer typically handles B permits (5 years). EU/EFTA citizens: L permit (< 1 year). Non-EU: requires job offer and quota availability.
Settle Housing, Schooling, Transport
Enroll children in international schools (ISL, Ecole Nouvelle), set up utilities, and purchase a Mobilis transport card for the region.
Working in Lausanne
Lausanne is a center for education, innovation, and global organizations. A thriving job market for professionals and academics.
Key Sectors
- Education & Research — EPFL, UNIL, IMD Business School
- Innovation & Startups — EPFL Innovation Park, tech startups
- Olympics & Sports — IOC, international sports federations
- Tech & Engineering — Growing tech ecosystem
Working Environment
- Average salaries: CHF 80,000–140,000+ gross annual
- Languages: French essential for most roles; English in academia/multinationals
- Work culture: Academic, innovative, multicultural, young
- Major employers: EPFL, Nestlé (Vevey), IOC, startups
Family Life in Lausanne
Lausanne is highly family-friendly with strong education and lifestyle opportunities. An ideal place to raise children.
Education Excellence
International School of Lausanne (ISL), Ecole Nouvelle de la Suisse Romande, excellent public schools (French).
French-Speaking Education
High-quality public schools in French. Excellent for families wanting French immersion and integration.
Outdoor Lifestyle
Lake Geneva for sailing and swimming, vineyard hikes, ski resorts 1 hour away, safe neighborhoods, excellent air quality.
Specialized Lausanne Services
Get expert support for your Lausanne relocation. Explore services tailored for this region.
Housing in Lausanne
Find apartments in Ouchy, Chailly, Flon. Lakeside living, student-friendly, family neighborhoods available.
Immigration in Lausanne
Work permits, residence permits, commune registration. Vaud canton-specific expertise for expats and academics.
Finance in Lausanne
Banking, tax planning, wealth management. Vaud canton financial expertise for expats and professionals.
Advisory Alps (HNWI)
Luxury lifestyle relocation to Swiss Alps. Lump-sum taxation, private banking, family offices.
Trusted Relocation Providers
ReloFinder connects you to relocation agencies with expertise in Lausanne. Compare their services and get free consultations.
Prime Relocation
Full-service relocation specialists for Lausanne expats. Housing, immigration, family settling-in. English, French support.
- ✓ Lausanne market expert
- ✓ Academic & family specialist
- ✓ Multilingual support
Auris Relocation
Corporate mobility and immigration specialists. 25+ years experience, Lausanne regional presence, multilingual.
- ✓ Corporate relocation
- ✓ Immigration expertise
- ✓ 25+ years experience
Lifestylemanagers
Premium concierge and relocation services for HNWI and families. Personalized support, Romandie expertise.
- ✓ Premium concierge services
- ✓ HNWI & family focus
- ✓ Personalized approach
Resources & Guides
Essential guides to help you plan your Lausanne relocation. Expert insights and practical tips.
Lausanne Housing Market 2025
Complete guide to finding apartments in Lausanne. Neighborhoods, rental prices, tips for expats.
Budget PlanningCost of Living in Lausanne
Detailed breakdown of monthly expenses: housing, transport, insurance, groceries, lifestyle costs.
EducationGuide to Studying in Lausanne (EPFL/UNIL)
Moving to Lausanne for studies? Complete guide to EPFL, UNIL, housing, student life, and integration.
FamilyFamily Relocation Tips in Vaud
Complete family guide: schools, activities, neighborhoods, settling-in tips for Canton Vaud.
Corporate Relocation to Lausanne
HR and mobility teams relocating staff to Lausanne benefit from transparent provider comparisons. Request up to 5 quotes from vetted agencies — anonymous, fast, and cost-effective. Ensure smooth employee transitions.
Learn More About Corporate Services →Ready to Start Your Lausanne Relocation?
From lakeside living to global education, Lausanne offers a unique Swiss lifestyle. Let's make your move smooth and successful.