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Moving to Basel, Switzerland | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Muensterplatz in Basel, Switzerland

Moving to Basel, Switzerland

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 07, 2024

Summary: Many expats are drawn to Basel, Switzerland for its high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is also known for its world-class universities, making it an attractive destination for students and professionals alike. Additionally, Basel is located in a beautiful region of Switzerland, surrounded by the Jura Mountains and the Rhine River. Before moving to Basel, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in many other parts of Switzerland. Additionally, the city is known for its high taxes, so it is important to research the tax laws before relocating. It is also important to note that Basel is a bilingual city, with both German and French being spoken. Finally, it is important to be aware of the weather in Basel, which can be quite cold and wet in the winter months.

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What do I need to know before moving to Basel?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Basel, they said:

"Make sure you visit the apartment first and bring your US furniture with you and as much US things as possible to save yourself money. Be careful about furniture fitting up stairways. Be careful about silly rules...no flushing of toilets or taking showers during certain hours, etc," remarked one expat who made the move to Basel.

"Basel is a vibrant city located in the northwest corner of Switzerland, close to the borders of France and Germany. It is known for its cultural diversity, excellent public transportation, and high quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Basel is high, and that the city is home to a large number of international companies and organizations. Expats should also be aware that the Swiss language is the official language of Basel, although English is widely spoken. Additionally, expats should be aware that the Swiss healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and that the city is home to a number of excellent universities. Finally, expats should be aware that Basel is a safe city with a low crime rate," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.

How do I find a place to live in Basel?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I used a relocation agent who showed me multiple neighborhoods and described pros/cons. I then asked colleagues what they thought and went for their recommendations," said one expat who made the move to Basel.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Basel is to use online resources such as websites like Immoscout24, Homegate, and Comparis. These websites allow you to search for apartments and houses for rent in Basel and the surrounding area. Additionally, you can also search for rental properties on the websites of local real estate agents. Additionally, you can also look for rental properties in local newspapers and magazines. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Basel for recommendations," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Basel?

"Expat homes and apartments in Basel are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and artwork, and the kitchens are well-equipped with modern appliances. Basel is known for its excellent public transportation system, so many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can easily access the train and bus lines," remarked one expat who made the move to Basel.

"A multi-level city apartment in the center of town. No. It is hard to find an apartment like this. They are highly desirable and usually are taken by Swiss citizens," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.

What is the average cost of housing in Basel?

If you are thinking about moving to Basel, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Higher, but an apartment like I had in NYC would have been much more expensive. $3000 per month plus utilities for a two bedroom apartment," said one expat in Basel.

"The cost of housing in Basel is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city can be expensive, with prices ranging from around 1,500 Swiss Francs (CHF) per month for a one-bedroom apartment to over 4,000 CHF for a three-bedroom apartment. Buying a property in Basel is also costly, with the average price of a three-bedroom apartment in the city centre being around 1.5 million CHF," remarked one expat who made the move to Basel.

Should I buy or rent a home in Basel?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Basel, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Basel can be a great investment, as the city is known for its high quality of life and strong economy. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Basel, as it is one of the most expensive cities in Switzerland. Renting a home in Basel can be a more affordable option, and it can also provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the city. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Basel should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," commented one expat who made the move to Basel.

What should I pack when moving to Basel?

We asked people living in Basel to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Basel, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is generally cool and wet. A good raincoat and umbrella are essential, as well as a good pair of shoes for walking on the cobblestone streets. It is also important to bring a few items to make your new home feel like home, such as pictures, books, and other personal items. Additionally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and other important paperwork. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any other items that you may need for your new life in Basel," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.

"1. More lamps (you can use european light bulbs) 2. A multisystem tv purchased on the internet and 220 appliances. 3. A videocam system to see my family. wish I had left at home... 1. All electrical appliances that I thought I could easily convert. 2. My rugs...you can purchase great ones in Turkey and they were damaged in the move. 3. My favorite glass items..they were broken," said one expat in Basel.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Basel?

We asked people in Basel if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Basel. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to be respectful of them. It is also important to be aware of the local language, and to avoid speaking too loudly in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local cuisine, and to avoid eating with your hands or making loud noises while eating," explained one expat living in Basel, Switzerland.

Why do people move to Basel?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Basel, they responded:

"Basel is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, stunning natural scenery, and its proximity to other major European cities. Basel also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with many multinational companies based in the city. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world. With its low cost of living, excellent public transportation, and excellent healthcare system, Basel is an ideal destination for expats looking to make a new home," stated one expat who made the move to Basel.

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How are healthcare services Basel?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Basel, they replied:

"Basel offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a range of services, from general check-ups to specialized treatments. Additionally, Basel is home to a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments. The city also has a number of health insurance providers, which offer a range of plans to cover medical costs. Finally, Basel is home to a number of health-related organizations, such as the Swiss Red Cross, which provide a range of services to the community," wrote one expat living in Basel.

What are medical services in Basel like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Basel, they replied:

"Basel is home to a wide range of medical services. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of services, from general medical care to specialized treatments. The city also has a number of pharmacies, as well as a wide range of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, and specialists in various other fields. Additionally, Basel is home to a number of research institutes and universities that offer medical research and education. All of these services are available to both locals and visitors alike, making Basel a great place to receive medical care," wrote one expat living in Basel.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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