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Digital Nomad Guide to Zurich, Switzerland | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Swimming on Lake Zurich in Switzerland

Digital Nomad Life in Zurich, Switzerland

By Betsy Burlingame

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Zurich, Switzerland because of its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and great access to the rest of Europe. The city is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and excellent public transportation. The approximate population of Zurich, Switzerland is 400,000. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Zurich is estimated to be around $2,000 USD. To rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Zurich, it would cost around $1,500 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Zurich is the Old Town, as it is centrally located and offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. The weather in Zurich, Switzerland is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (0-20 Celsius).

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William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How do I meet people in Zurich?

When we asked people living in Zurich about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Zurich is a vibrant city with plenty of opportunities to meet people from various walks of life. One way to start is to take advantage of the many clubs and organizations that offer activities such as sports, music, language classes, cultural events, etc. Networking events are also a great way to meet people, such as business associations and workshops, conferences, and tech/startup events. Join local Meetup groups in your area of interest to meet people with similar hobbies. Social media apps such as Tinder, Bumble, and Happn are also good for meeting people in Zurich. Strike up conversations with people at bars, cafes, and parks, or go to the many annual festivals to mingle with locals. Last but not least, look for volunteer and job opportunities - they are great ways to meet new people while making a positive contribution to the community," explained one person living in Zurich, Switzerland.

"There are lots of English speaking clubs you can join - American, English, Australian and some for Asians etc. If you are an outdoors person the list is endless. You're sure to find something that suits you," said one expat in Zurich.

What is life like in Zurich?

When we asked people living in Zurich what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"In general life revolves around the family for the Swiss. If your a foreigner join a club to get to know people - especially iy ouare single. It's difficult to get to meet people outside of work," explained one expat living in Zurich, Switzerland.

"Living in Zurich as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is known for its high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, a vibrant cultural scene, and plenty of outdoor activities. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many parks, museums, and galleries, as well as its world-class restaurants and nightlife. Zurich is also a great place to work, with a strong economy and plenty of job opportunities. The cost of living is high, but the city offers a wide range of housing options, from affordable apartments to luxury homes. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's excellent healthcare system and its many international schools," said one person in Zurich.

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Where should I live in Zurich?

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

"Finding a place to live in Zurich can be challenging due to the high demand for housing. It is advised to start your search in advance to give yourself enough time to find a suitable place. Research your options and budget carefully, as a variety of housing options are available, ranging from apartments, to flats and studios. Consider using a real estate agent or a relocation service to increase your chances of finding a place quickly. Online property search websites like Immoscout24, Homegate and Home.ch can also be helpful for listing available properties and getting an understanding of the local housing market. Ensure that you have your documents ready, such as employment contract, reference letter from your bank and proof of financial resources, which may be required during the tenancy application process," said one person in Zurich.

"We used All-in-One Swiss Relocation Services, which did a great job finding the appropriate place for us to live in," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Zurich.

What do I need to know before moving to Zurich?

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

"LEARN GERMAN,and make sure that you can get a tax specialist who speaks your langauge if you mother tongue is not German, French or Italian," said one expat in Zurich.

"Before retiring in Zurich, it is important to research the cost of living and compare it to your expected income. As Switzerland is known for its high cost of living, it is important to take into account things like housing, transportation, food and medical costs. It is also important to have an understanding of the tax system in Switzerland and ensure that you are prepared to comply with it while living in the country. When retiring in Zurich, it is also important to learn about Switzerland's retirement laws and pension systems before settling down. It can be beneficial to also research the healthcare system and find out what type of coverage is available and whether you qualify for public or private health insurance. Finally, it is important to consider the quality of life Zurich has to offer and the amenities that you enjoy. Consider whether the city can provide activities and services to suit your lifestyle and needs. Learning some of the language, customs, culture and laws of the city is also recommended," remarked one member in Zurich.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Zurich?

"The air is clean, we can ski on weekends in winter. You see the mountains. But that's about it. I personally appreciate Asia much more," said one person in Zurich.

"Expats in Zurich appreciate the high quality of life, the safe and clean environment, the reliable and efficient transportation system, the availability of good healthcare, the variety of entertainment options, the beauty of the Swiss Alps, the availability of international foods and restaurants, and the friendliness of the local people. They also enjoy the cultural diversity of the city and appreciate the mix of old and new architecture. Additionally, Zurich's renowned museums, galleries, and festivals offer a diverse range of cultural activities to explore," said one expat who made the move to Zurich.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Zurich?

"Expatriates often find adjusting to a new cultural environment challenging. Making friends and gaining access to a strong social network can be difficult. Additionally, language barriers can make communicating and navigating everyday tasks difficult. The bureaucracy associated with visas and residency permits can also be overwhelming. Other issues faced by expats include homesickness, loneliness and struggling to understand the nuances of local customs and etiquette," remarked one member in Zurich.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Zurich for a while?

"If you are planning to stay in Zurich for a while, you will need to apply for a Swiss residence permit. Depending on your nationality and purpose of stay, the permit you need to apply for varies. Generally, citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries need a residence permit if they intend to stay in Switzerland for more than 3 months. Other nationalities may need to apply for a visa before they enter the country. Additionally, depending on your purpose of stay, you may need to apply for a special resident permit such as a work visa or student visa," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Zurich.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Zurich?

We asked people in Zurich if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"hmmmm... Swiss sometimes do not understand German jokes. I laugh but the Swiss don't," explained one expat living in Zurich, Switzerland.

"When visiting Zurich, it is important to remember to be respectful of the local customs and culture. It is considered polite to dress modestly and to arrive on time or slightly early to appointments or meetings. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid discussing religious or political topics with locals as these can be sensitive. People in Zurich also generally expect politeness and good manners, so try to be courteous in conversations and interactions. Furthermore, when you are out and about, avoid speaking loudly and maintain the high standards of personal hygiene expected in the city. Lastly, although smoking is not an uncommon sight in Zurich, do not light up indoors or in places that do not allow it," said one person in Zurich.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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What are healthcare services like in Zurich?

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

"Healthcare services in Zurich are provided by a variety of public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the canton of Zurich and provides comprehensive medical care to all residents. Private healthcare is also available and is often used for more specialized treatments. The city of Zurich has a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a wide range of services, including general medicine, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and mental health. Additionally, Zurich is home to a number of specialized medical centers, such as the University Hospital Zurich, which is one of the largest and most advanced medical centers in Europe. Zurich also has a number of private medical practices, which offer a range of services, including general medicine, dentistry, and alternative medicine," wrote one digital nomad living in Zurich, Switzerland.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Zurich?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Zurich appreciate the city's high quality of life, excellent public transportation system, and stunning natural beauty. They also enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene, with its many museums, galleries, and theaters. On the downside, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Zurich to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak German," said one foreigner in Zurich.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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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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AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
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Help others in Switzerland by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Switzerland.

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