Moving to Switzerland: Housing options & real estate market for emigrants

Finding the perfect apartment is often the first major hurdle for newcomers when moving to Switzerland. The Swiss real estate market is known for its high demand and comparatively expensive rental prices – especially in metropolitan areas. This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of the various housing options, the most important legal framework of the Swiss rental market, and a current rental price comparison for the cities of Zurich, Geneva, Basel and rural regions, to help you make your decision.

Unlike in Germany, most rental apartments in Switzerland are unfurnished. However, they do come with a bathroom and a built‑in kitchen – the so‑called "kitchenette" is standard. Also notable is the precise indication of the number of rooms: a 3.5‑room apartment means three full rooms plus a smaller room (such as a cabinet)..

On the competitive Swiss rental market, a professional and complete application is crucial. This includes a dossier with a copy of your ID, your employment contract, proof of income, a debt enforcement register extract (credit check), as well as a short but likeable cover letter. Also particularly important is the rental deposit: it is legally limited to a maximum of three months' rent. Registration with the residents' registration officeof your municipality of residenceis mandatory within 14 days of moving in.

In addition to classic rental apartments, there are a number of housing models in Switzerland that can make it easier for emigrants and expats to get started:

 

– Shared flats (WGs): A very popular and more flexible option, especially for younger professionals or students, offering a communal living arrangement with existing social contacts.

 

– Furnished apartments: Particularly for a short‑term start or the first few months, furnished apartments are a time‑saving solution, as a kitchen and furniture are already provided.

 

– Housing cooperatives: In some Swiss cities, there are non‑profit cooperatives that offer housing at significantly more favourable conditions. However, these apartments are in high demand and often involve membership and waiting periods.

Rental prices in Switzerland vary extremely between regions, depending on economic strength, attractiveness and housing shortages.

 

– Zurich is the most expensive area. The average advertised rental price here is around 47 CHF per m² per month; the median is 41 CHF/m². A 2.5‑room apartment can therefore quickly cost an average of 2,820 CHF per month.

 

– Geneva is one of the most expensive rental markets in Europe. The price per square metre averages around 34.50 euros per month (converted to approx. 33 CHF, depending on the exchange rate). For a small apartment, similar amounts to Zurich are quickly due.

 

– Basel is comparatively somewhat cheaper, even though rents have recently risen by 2 to 3 percent. A smaller apartment can usually be found here for just over 1,500 CHF.

 

– Rural regions such as the Jura, Neuchâtel or Valais, on the other hand, are significantly more affordable. Here you can also find modern apartments, often costing only 50% to 70% of urban rental priceskosten.

Moving to Switzerland requires careful preparation regarding apartment search, costs and legal framework. The real estate market is highly competitive, and prices in cities such as Zurich, Geneva and Basel are among the highest in Europe. However, those willing to move to more rural cantons can find significantly cheaper and often quieter housing there. A detailed look at the rental contract, deposit and etiquette during viewings will help you successfully master your start in Switzerland.