As we have already seen, Zurich is one of the best places to live and work, a city where it is possible to realize both one’s professional and business dreams.
In fact, Zurich is well known for its multicultural environment, business opportunities, and Swiss efficiency on the health care and transportation front.
Nevertheless, moving to a new city can prove to be really challenging, as you will have to get used to a new environment that comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Therefore, let’s find out together all the pros and cons of living in Zurich as an expat!
Living in Zurich: the main pros…
1. The standard of living
In addition, Zurich ranks as the fourth city in the world for quality of life, mainly due to its high standards of health, real estate and infrastructure.
2. The excellent salaries
One of the greatest advantages of living and working in Zurich are the high salaries, which can also include benefits such as health insurance, recreational activities, or a general-admission (GA) pass for public transportation.
3. The international atmosphere
Approximately 31% of residents are non-Swiss: the expatriate community is huge and comes mainly from countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, Austria, France, the UK, and Turkey.
Thus, this cosmopolitan atmosphere is certainly one of the main advantages!
4. The numerous sports and outdoor activities
In addition, Zurich offers attractions and leisure activities to suit all tastes, such as:
- The shopping opportunities, from Bahnhofstrasse to ShopVille-Zurich Main Station;
- The restaurants with international cuisines;
- Outdoor sports, including hiking, mountain biking, windsurfing, and skiing;
- Winter activities, such as Christmas markets, skating rinks and more. Live an unforgettable experience in Zurich in winter.
5. Efficient means of transport
As far as public transport in Zurich is concerned, it consists of a reliable and high-quality network of trains, buses and boats, whose integrated ticket system can be used throughout the entire network.
6. A healthcare system of excellence
The standard of the Swiss health care system is also very high: Zurich’s clinics and hospitals offer access to a wide range of state-of-the-art health services that amply satisfy patients.
7. Knowledge of the English language
The official language in Zurich is German: however, most Swiss speak English very well and 17% of all residents use it regularly in the workplace!
8. Low crime rates
What is more, Zurich boasts a very low crime rate and ranks as the fifth safest city in the world: Swiss citizens generally feel safe walking alone in the streets, both day and night.
… and some cons
1. The cost of living
Turning to the cons, the high cost of living is certainly the most familiar, as you will have to:
- Pay private health insurance, whose insurance premium amounts to 8% of your salary;
- Cope with an expensive public transport service.
Therefore, we suggest you opt for a state-of-the-art provider – such as City Pop – offering innovative furnished flats, as well as a car/bike sharing service!
2. The competitive housing market
Finding a flat to rent can be complex due to the scarcity of housing and the competitive tenant selection process.
However, by choosing a flexible micro-living solution, such as ours, you can save a lot of time and money!
3. Shops closed on Sundays
Shops in Switzerland are usually closed on Sundays, with the exception of those located in large railway stations: this can be an inconvenience you will have to get used to.
4. Documents in German
In addition, many migration documents, as well as bulletins, are only available in German: consequently, we recommend that you study at least a little of this language.
