Relocating to Zurich—or any Swiss city—brings both excitement and challenges, particularly when it comes to finding accommodation. Known for its pristine landscapes, strong economy, and world-renowned quality of life, Switzerland also has a competitive housing market. This is especially true in cities like Zurich, Zug, and Geneva, where high demand and high rental prices can make securing a place a daunting task. But with Prime Relocation by your side, navigating the Swiss housing market becomes a far smoother, more manageable process.
Switzerland’s rental market is unique, with a high proportion of renters compared to homeowners. Approximately 75% of Swiss residents live in rented accommodations, which results in significant demand. Cities such as Zurich, Zug, and Geneva consistently have the highest rental costs in the country, largely due to their financial and cultural prominence. With high competition, finding an apartment often means acting fast and putting your best foot forward during the application process.
Prime Relocation is dedicated to helping expats like you find the perfect fit for your new home, whether in bustling urban centers or tranquil suburbs. We offer custom city guides, which you can request from our AI assistant, providing key insights into the housing options in different cities. For those new to the country, these guides and our expert support help make the transition seamless.
Finding accommodation in Switzerland is known for being time-intensive and competitive. Most properties are unfurnished, and tenants are typically expected to purchase their own curtains, light fixtures, and in some cases, even kitchen appliances. Houses are scarce and in high demand, which means apartments are the most commonly available type of accommodation. Zurich, for example, has a variety of properties but finding a specific size or location can still prove challenging.
Prime Relocation’s city guides and one-on-one consultations provide essential information on neighborhoods, rental prices, and nearby amenities. We offer a strategic approach to finding homes based on your needs, family size, and budget.
The way rooms are counted in Switzerland may differ from what you’re used to. For example, a 2.5-room apartment refers to an apartment with a bedroom and an open-plan living/dining area (counted as 1.5 rooms). It’s common to find apartments with balconies or terraced spaces, though houses are much rarer, especially in high-demand areas.
Applying for a property requires attention to detail and timeliness. In Switzerland, first impressions matter, so having a completed application, flexibility on move-in dates, and good references can set you apart from other candidates. Most leases are open-ended, with a minimum term of one year. You will also need to prepare for an upfront deposit, often one to three months’ rent, held in a security account to cover potential damages.
Most Swiss apartments are equipped with built-in kitchen appliances, including a dishwasher, oven, and stove. However, laundry facilities vary; some buildings have shared laundry rooms, while others include washing machines in each unit. Electricity in Switzerland is AC 220-240 volts, with unique socket designs, so expats from countries like the U.S. may need to invest in new appliances or adaptors.
Prime Relocation offers a range of services specifically designed to help expats settle in Switzerland with minimal hassle. Our relocation AI assistant allows you to access city guides, request consultations, and get real-time advice on your housing options. Here’s how we can help:
With its stunning lake, efficient public transport, and lively cultural scene, Zurich offers an exceptional quality of life. However, the high demand for accommodation in Zurich requires swift action, and understanding the rental market can be challenging without local knowledge.
Zug is known for its attractive tax rates, making it popular among expatriates and international businesses. Rental prices are high, but the city offers a peaceful, picturesque setting with strong transport connections and top-rated schools.
As a global diplomatic hub, Geneva’s rental market is highly competitive, particularly for furnished accommodations. Prime Relocation’s Geneva city guide offers insights on neighborhoods, average rents, and nearby amenities.
Rental prices in Switzerland can be significantly higher than in other European countries, particularly in sought-after areas like Zurich, Zug, and Geneva. Be prepared for expenses beyond just rent, such as additional fees for utilities, insurance, and maintenance. Prime Relocation’s experts help you understand the true cost of living in your chosen city, so you can budget effectively.
Our AI assistant provides round-the-clock access to city guides, consultation scheduling, and relocation advice. Here’s how to get started:
Moving to Switzerland is a fantastic opportunity, and Prime Relocation is here to make it a seamless, enjoyable process. From our city guides and expert consultations to full relocation services, we’re committed to helping you feel at home in your new city. Let us take care of the complexities, so you can focus on the excitement of your new beginning.
