Pros and cons of living in Zurich in 2024

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city, consistently ranking high in global surveys for quality of life. With its stunning location, medieval history, and modern infrastructure, Zurich offers a unique combination of old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation. However, like any major city, living in Zurich has advantages and disadvantages.

Considering moving to Zurich soon? Whether for work, study, or a change of scenery, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of relocating. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the key aspects of Zurich life, including the cost of living, cultural opportunities, and practical considerations.

Pros of living in Zurich in 2024

1. High quality of life

 

This is one of the biggest reasons Zurich is a top city in Europe. In 2024, the city continues to be celebrated for its clean environment, efficient public services, and excellent infrastructure.

Key highlights:

• Cleanliness: Zurich is known for how pristine it is. Streets are well-maintained, public spaces are spotless, and littering is highly discouraged. The end result? A really inviting look and feel.
• Public transportation: The city’s public transport system is world-class, with frequent trains, trams, and buses connecting every part of the city and the surrounding region. The system is punctual, reliable, and easy to navigate.
• Safety: Zurich has a low crime rate, making it one of the safest cities in the world to live in. Plus, you can comfortably walk around most parts of the city at any time of day.

2. Strong economy & job market

Zurich is Switzerland’s financial hub. It’s home to major international banks, financial institutions, and multinational corporations. The city’s economy is diverse, with the finance, pharmaceuticals, technology, and engineering industries leading the way.

Key benefits:

• Job opportunities: Zurich offers high-paying jobs, especially in finance, IT, and healthcare. Multinational companies like Google and ABB have a strong presence, making it an attractive city for skilled professionals. As of 2024, the city’s job market remains robust, despite global economic challenges.
• Low unemployment: Switzerland boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, and Zurich is no exception. With a dynamic job market and a focus on innovation, Zurich is a great spot to find work.

3. High standard of healthcare & education

Healthcare and education are two areas where Zurich shines. The city offers world-class healthcare services and is home to some of Switzerland’s top universities and research institutions.

Key features:

• Healthcare: Zurich provides access to top-tier healthcare facilities, with highly trained medical professionals and state-of-the-art technology. Healthcare in Switzerland operates on a mandatory insurance system. So everyone has access to essential medical services.
• Education: Have school-aged children or going to university yourself? This Swiss city is an attractive place for families with kids as well as professionals seeking advanced degrees. The University of Zurich and ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology) are globally renowned for their academic excellence and innovation.

4. Multicultural environment

People from all over the world are excited about living in Zurich. It’s an international destination, with nearly one-third of residents (as of 2024) being expats. In other words, it’s a welcoming place for newcomers.

Key aspects:

• Cultural diversity: Living in Zurich means exposure to a wide range of cultures, languages, and traditions. During the year, the city hosts numerous cultural festivals, international events, and exhibitions.
• Multilingualism: While the official language is German (specifically Swiss German), English is widely spoken in business and social settings, especially among the expat community.

5. Proximity to nature

Are you an outdoorsy type? There are so many things to do in Zurich since it’s urban but also has easy access to nature. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it easy to hike, picnic, and enjoy numerous other outdoor activities.

Outdoor benefits:

• Lakes and mountains: Lake Zurich is perfect for swimming, boating, and picnicking in the warmer months. For hiking and skiing, the Swiss Alps are just a short train ride away.
• Green spaces: Zurich has lots of parks, gardens, and public green spaces. The Uetliberg mountain, which offers stunning views of the city and the Alps, is a popular spot for hiking and relaxation.

6. Political stability

Switzerland is known for its political neutrality and stability, and Zurich reflects this. The city benefits from a well-functioning government, low corruption, and a high degree of personal freedom.

Cons of living in Zurich in 2024

While Zurich has many advantages, it also has its drawbacks. Here are some of the cons to consider before making a move.

1. High cost of living

One of the biggest challenges of living in Zurich? The cost. Currently, Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in the world.

Financial challenges:

• Housing: The cost of housing in Zurich is notoriously high. Renting an apartment, especially in central locations, can take up a significant portion of your income. Luckily, Blueground’s furnished apartments make it easy and affordable. Simply use the filters on our site to find move-in-ready Zurich homes at reasonable prices.
• General expenses: Groceries, dining out, transportation, and healthcare are also pricey. While salaries in Zurich are generally high, it’s important to budget carefully to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

2. Language barrier for non-German speakers

Although many people in Zurich speak English, especially in business settings, Swiss German is the primary language. Expats who don’t speak German may find it challenging.

Language difficulties:

• Integration: While Zurich is an international city, integrating into Swiss society may be more challenging if you don’t speak the local language. Learning basic German is highly recommended for a smoother experience.
• Official documents: Many official documents, legal forms, and public announcements are in German, making it essential for expats to either learn the language or rely on translation services.

3. Limited nightlife & entertainment options

Zurich is not known for its vibrant nightlife compared to cities like Berlin or London. While there are bars, clubs, and cultural events, the nightlife scene is more subdued, and many places close early.

Entertainment challenges:

• Cost of entertainment: Going out in Zurich can be expensive. Whether it’s dining in a restaurant, going to a concert, or visiting a museum, the costs can add up quickly.
• Quiet city vibe: If you’re someone who enjoys a buzzing nightlife scene, Zurich might feel a bit quiet. It’s a city that leans more towards subtle sophistication than high-energy entertainment.

4. Weather

Zurich’s climate is temperate, but the winters can be long, cold, and gray. While the city does experience all four seasons, the weather may be a drawback for some people.

Weather concerns:

• Long winters: Winters in Zurich can feel long and harsh. They feature cold temperatures and overcast skies. While snow is beautiful, the low temps can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to it.
• Rainy periods: Zurich experiences significant rainfall, especially during spring and autumn. If you’re moving from a sunnier climate, adjusting to the wet weather can take time.

5. Bureaucracy

Like many developed countries, Switzerland has a significant amount of bureaucracy. Yep, that means paperwork. Navigating Zurich’s administrative procedures, from setting up health insurance to getting a work permit, can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Administrative challenges:

• Complex paperwork: Swiss bureaucracy is known for being thorough, which means a lot of paperwork for even simple tasks. It’s not uncommon for processes to take weeks or even months to complete.
• Slow process: Despite being efficient in many areas, certain bureaucratic processes, like obtaining visas, permits, or setting up utilities, can be slow.

Is Zurich the right city for you?

Zurich is undoubtedly one of the most desirable cities in the world to live in, thanks to its high quality of life, strong economy, excellent healthcare, and stunning natural surroundings. However, the high cost of living, language barriers, and cold winters are important factors to consider.

Zurich continues to offer an outstanding quality of life, in 2024 and beyond! It’s a prime destination for expats, professionals, and families alike. Looking to stay in Zurich for a year or longer? Explore the Live@Blueground program, which features our lowest rates, contract freezes, apartment swapping, and more!