Housing in Switzerland

Getting a home to live in for a long-term purpose is one of the hardest challenges you would have to face as an expat in Switzerland. Since 60% of both residents and foreigners in the country are renting, it means the competition in landing an ideal home can be tough. While you’re hunting for a house, it is also suggested that you settle in a short-term accommodation since it is expected that your search for a house may take some time.

For rents updated in real-time, please refer to this page.

Property Type

Zurich

(In US $)

Geneva

(In US $)

Basel

(In US $)

One-bedroom Apartment

(Outside of Centre)

1,579.35

1,642.17

1,135.60

Three-bedroom Apartment

(Outside of Centre)

2,905.07

3,140.53

2,314.14

Source: numbeo.com

Online real estate listing sites can be very helpful for you in your search for a long-term home. Listings allow you to get a digital perspective of the house, to know the property’s exact location, and even to communicate directly to realtors. Below are local listing sites in Switzerland where you can start your house hunting:

Once you’ve found an ideal property to rent out, act immediately since most available properties get rented in less than a month’s time. All property transactions in the country are handled by real estate agents, therefore, it will not be too complicated to process things. The agents can walk you through the process and you will just have to prepare the minimum requirements to sign a lease contract. Common requirements may include your identification documents, passport, copy of visa, employment contract, and other supporting papers that will be required by your landlord.