Lausanne, Switzerland

"Contact the american women's club, or the international school and even the relocation companies. Also the people we rented from were very helpful with a lot of our questions," commented one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"Lausanne, located in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, is a city where you will need to have a basic understanding of French to navigate daily life. The cost of living in Lausanne is high, with housing, groceries, and dining out being more expensive than in many other cities. Public transportation in Lausanne is reliable and efficient, with a network of trains, buses, and boats that can take you anywhere you need to go. Switzerland has a mandatory health insurance policy, so you will need to purchase a health insurance plan within three months of moving to Lausanne. The city is known for its high quality of life, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, cultural events, and a healthy work-life balance. Swiss people value punctuality and privacy, so it's important to respect these cultural norms. The city is also environmentally conscious, with strict recycling rules and a focus on sustainable living. Lausanne has a strong job market, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, education, and information technology. However, it's important to note that the job market is competitive, and a high level of education and professional experience is often required. The Swiss education system is highly regarded, and there are many international schools in Lausanne for expat children. However, these schools can be expensive, and there may be waiting lists for admission. Switzerland has a high level of safety and low crime rates, but it's still important to take standard precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Finally, Swiss cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a strong emphasis on cheese, chocolate, and locally sourced ingredients," remarked one expat living in Lausanne, Switzerland.

"Finding a place to live in Lausanne, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a studio apartment to a larger family home. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Lausanne to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Ouchy, Flon, and Sous-Gare. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Lausanne. These include Homegate, ImmoScout24, and Comparis. You can also use a real estate agent to help you find a place. They can provide you with expert advice and access to listings that may not be publicly available. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll need to contact the landlord or real estate agent to arrange a viewing. It's important to act quickly, as the rental market in Lausanne can be competitive. If you decide to apply for a property, you'll need to provide several documents. These typically include proof of income, a copy of your passport, and a Swiss residency permit if you're not a Swiss citizen. Finally, if your application is successful, you'll need to sign a lease agreement. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before signing. It's also common in Switzerland to pay a security deposit, which is usually equivalent to one to three months' rent. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so it's a good idea to start your search well in advance of your move," wrote one member in Lausanne.

"I contacted [email protected] as they had some good houses in the lausanne area that were really good for my family as they were close to the city center but still very residential and "suburban" but without being far away, and close to international school for my kids," remarked one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"A "villa jumelle" which is 2 houses next to each other. This is a good value here as the rent is a good value and you have your own house and garden and not so much land or expenses to take care of for a stand alone house. This is very common in this area," wrote one member in Lausanne.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Lausanne, is often located in a modern building, with a beautiful view of the city or Lake Geneva. These homes are usually fully furnished, featuring a blend of contemporary and traditional Swiss design. The living room is spacious, often with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. The kitchen is typically equipped with modern appliances, including a dishwasher, oven, and refrigerator. Bedrooms are comfortable and cozy, often with built-in wardrobes for storage. Bathrooms are usually modern and clean, with a shower or bathtub. Some apartments may also have a small balcony or terrace, providing a private outdoor space. The buildings often come with amenities such as a laundry room, a gym, or a communal garden. Some may even have a concierge service. The location of these homes is usually convenient, close to public transportation, shops, restaurants, and parks. Despite being in the city, these homes often offer a quiet and peaceful living environment. The buildings are well-maintained, with clean and secure entrances. Parking spaces or garages may also be available, although many expats in Lausanne choose to use public transportation or bicycles for their daily commute. In terms of utilities, most apartments in Lausanne come with central heating, and some may also have air conditioning. Internet and cable TV are usually readily available. Overall, expat homes in Lausanne offer a comfortable and convenient living environment, with a touch of Swiss elegance and charm," remarked one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"Higher. Our rent seems to be less than some of our friends though. You can expect to pay 6 thousand francs per month easily for a family home in a good area," remarked one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"The average cost of housing in Lausanne can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, you can expect to pay a monthly rent of around 1,500 to 2,000 Swiss Francs. If you prefer to live outside of the city center, the rent for a similar apartment might decrease to around 1,200 to 1,500 Swiss Francs per month. For larger apartments or houses, the prices can significantly increase. If you're looking to buy property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around 13,000 Swiss Francs, while outside of the city center it drops to approximately 10,000 Swiss Francs per square meter. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," explained one expat living in Lausanne, Switzerland.

"Wish I had brought: 1. more books as they are expensive here 2. more furniture, same reason 3. certain food items that I miss Wish I had left 1. my sheets, etc as they didnt fit 2. appliances as they dont alwys work easily," wrote a member in Lausanne.

"Expats considering retirement in Lausanne, should be aware that the cost of living is high, with expenses such as housing, healthcare, and groceries often being more expensive than in other countries. They should also know that Switzerland has a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare and public services. Switzerland has four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh, and in Lausanne, the predominant language is French. Therefore, it would be beneficial to have a basic understanding of French before moving. Switzerland has a mandatory health insurance policy, so expats must ensure they are covered. The healthcare system in Switzerland is of a very high standard, but it is also one of the most expensive in the world. Switzerland is known for its efficient and reliable public transportation system, and Lausanne is no exception. Owning a car is not necessary as the city and the country are well-connected by trains, buses, and boats. Switzerland has a high level of safety and is considered one of the safest countries in the world. However, it's still important to take standard precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Switzerland has a unique tax system where taxes are levied at a federal, cantonal (state), and municipal level. Understanding this system can be complex, so it may be beneficial to seek advice from a tax professional. Switzerland is known for its outdoor activities, with Lausanne offering close proximity to both the Swiss Alps for skiing and hiking, and Lake Geneva for water sports. Swiss people value their privacy and personal space, so it's important to respect this cultural aspect. They are also known for being punctual and appreciating efficiency, so these are good traits to embrace. Finally, it's important to understand that while Switzerland is part of Europe, it is not part of the European Union, which can affect things like travel and trade," said one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"Expats in Lausanne often appreciate the cleanliness and safety of the city, which contributes to a high quality of life. They also value the efficiency and punctuality of public transportation, making it easy to navigate the city and the surrounding areas. The local culture's emphasis on outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing, is another aspect that expats enjoy. The Swiss are known for their respect for privacy, which many expats appreciate, especially those from cultures where personal space is highly valued. The local food and wine culture, particularly the fondue and local vineyards, are also highly appreciated. Expats also often mention the multilingualism of the Swiss, with many locals speaking English, French, German, and Italian, which can make settling in easier. Lastly, the city's rich history and beautiful architecture, combined with its modern amenities, create a unique blend of old and new that many expats find appealing," remarked one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"Expats in Lausanne often find the high cost of living to be a significant challenge, as prices for goods and services are generally much higher than in other countries. The language barrier can also be a major issue, as the primary language spoken in Lausanne is French, and while many people do speak English, not being fluent in French can limit social and professional opportunities. The Swiss are known for their punctuality and strict adherence to rules, which can be difficult for expats from more relaxed cultures to adjust to. Additionally, making friends and integrating into Swiss social circles can be challenging, as the Swiss are often perceived as reserved and private. Lastly, the Swiss work culture is often seen as intense and demanding, which can be a shock for expats used to a more balanced work-life approach," said one expat who made the move to Lausanne.

"Lausanne, generally enjoys a low crime rate, reflecting the overall safety of the country. However, like any city, it is not entirely free from crime. The most common types of crime reported are petty crimes such as pickpocketing or minor theft, particularly in crowded areas or on public transportation. Violent crime is relatively rare, but it does occur occasionally. Drug-related crimes are also reported, but they are not as prevalent as in some other major cities. Overall, while crime does exist in Lausanne, it is not a significant concern for most residents or visitors," wrote one member in Lausanne.

"Health Insurance is mandatory but privately paid by the insured. Cost is regulated for basic requirements but supplemental is at providers discretion. Can be expensive," remarked one expat in Lausanne.