What does it cost to live in Switzerland? An Overview (2025)

Switzerland is known for its high salaries and high costs. But what does that actually mean for your wallet when you go to work there? In this article, we dive deep into all the costs of living: from your groceries to your health insurance, and from public transport to a night out. Because yes, everything is more expensive than in the Netherlands. But the story is far more positive than you think.

As a physiotherapist in Switzerland do you earn an average CHF 6,900 (€7,830) gross per month, with starters earning around CHF 5,700 (€6,480). That is more than twice what you earn in the Netherlands. And while living in Switzerland is more expensive, it's certainly not twice as expensive! But what about that exactly? Let's list all costs.

‍

In short: All costs at a glance

Below is a complete overview of the average monthly costs as a physical therapist in Switzerland, plus what you earn:

‍

Cost of living in Switzerland vs other European countries

First, let's put these costs into perspective. Indeed, Switzerland has the highest cost of living in Europe, with prices averaging 67.6% higher than in Germany. But take a look at the salaries:

Starting salaries for physical therapists in Europe (gross per month):

• Netherlands: €2,500 - €3,000
• Belgium: €2,200-€2,700
• Germany: €2,800 - €3,200
• France: €2,000-€2,500
• Italy: €1,800 - €2,300
• Switzerland: CHF 5,700 (€6,480)

So in Switzerland, you earn at least twice as much as most European countries. And with the low taxes, you have much more net left over.

According to our data, for example, a single person in the Netherlands pays an average of €1,090 per month in living expenses (excluding rent), in Belgium €1,025, in Germany €930 and in Italy €950. In Switzerland, this is higher, but the high salaries more than compensate for this.

Amsterdam has similar rents to Zurich, but with a Dutch starting salary, you can barely make ends meet there. You also pay a lot for rent in Paris, Brussels or Munich, but you earn much less. In Switzerland, you can easily save CHF 1,500-2,000 (€1,700-€2,270) per month. And that is much more than what many professionals in other European countries can do.

‍

1. Living: your biggest expense

In major cities like Zurich, you'll pay an average of CHF 1,650 (€1,875) per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, while outside the city centre, you'll pay around CHF 1,300 (€1,476). Bern and Lucerne are in between.

‍

Rent sample prices:

‍

And outside the big cities? If you choose a village or smaller town outside the major cities, you can easily save €500 to €800 a month. And thanks to the fantastic public transport, you can get anywhere quickly.

Smart tips:

• Start sharing a home. This quickly saves CHF 500-800 per month
• Please note: a deposit of three months' rent often applies to a rental contract

Want to know more about the costs of living in Switzerland? Check us out article about the cost of living in Switzerland.

‍

2. Groceries: pricey but also of good quality

For one person, you pay an average of CHF 450 (€510) per month in groceries. That sounds like a lot, but the quality is also good. Swiss products are of the highest quality: from world-famous chocolate to fresh mountain cheese.

‍

Where do you shop for groceries?

The two largest supermarkets in Switzerland are Migros and Coop, with Coop being around 10% more expensive than Migros. Do you really want to save money? Then go to discounters like Aldi and Lidl. On average, these are still 10-25% cheaper.

‍

Sample grocery prices:

• Milk (1 litre): CHF 1.84
• Eggs (12 pieces): CHF 8.00
• Chicken (500g): CHF 12.00
• Bread: CHF 3.50 - 5.00
• Meal pick up: CHF 13-15

Our savings tips:

• Choose M-Budget (Migros) or Prix Guarantee (Coop)
• Shop seasonal fruits and vegetables
• Cook at home and bring your own lunch to work. This saves CHF 300-400 per month!

3. Public transport: expensive but perfect

Public transport in Switzerland is world renowned for its reliability. The country has more than 5,300 kilometers of railway lines!

‍

What does public transport cost?

• Half Fare Card: CHF 190 (€216) per year: gives a 50% discount on all public transport, including boats, gondolas and mountain trains!
• GA (unlimited travel) Travelcard 2nd class: CHF 3,995 (€4,540) per year for unlimited travel
• Monthly GA: CHF 340 (€386) per month for unlimited travel
• Monthly regional subscription: CHF 70-100

For most physical therapists who don't travel long distances every day, a Half Fare Card or regional subscription is the best option. Count on approximately CHF 80-120 per month in public transport costs.

‍

Good to know: For young people under 25, there is a Night GA Travelcard for just CHF 99 per year, valid between 7:00pm and 5:00am!

‍

4. Health insurance: pricey, but for world-class care

Anyone living in Switzerland must take out health insurance within three months of arrival. This is one of your largest fixed costs. What you get in return: healthcare in Switzerland is world-class. In fact, it's one of the best healthcare systems in the world, as you'll discover when you're there when a physio goes to work.

‍

How much does health insurance cost?

The average premium for adults in 2025 is CHF 449.20 (€510) per month. But there are big differences between insurers and regions. By comparing smartly, you can save hundreds of francs per year. And thanks to our cooperation with the CSS and AXA, you always get the most suitable insurance!

‍

Here's how it works:

• You choose a deductible (franchise) between CHF 300 and CHF 2,500. The higher the deductible, the lower your premium
• In addition, you pay a 10% personal contribution up to a maximum of CHF 700 per year
• Basic health insurance covers all essential care
• Supplementary insurances are optional

Smart savings tips:

• Opt for a higher deductible if you are healthy
• Compare premiums annually — you can switch every year
• Opt for a GP model or telemedicine model for lower premiums

Want to know more? Read us article about health insurance in Switzerland.

‍

5. Leisure & going out

Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. A day (or night) out does come at a price.

‍

Example prices:

• Beer in a café: CHF 6-8
• 3-course restaurant menu: CHF 60-90
• Skiing day ticket: CHF 70-90
• Movie ticket: CHF 18-22

But don't forget that fun sports activities like walking, swimming in the lakes and cycling are often free or cheap!

‍

6. Other costs

Telephone & internet: CHF 50-80 per month

• Mobile plan: from CHF 30
• Home Internet: CHF 50-60

Utilities: CHF 100-150 per month

• Gas, water, electricity
• Often already included in your rent

Clothing & personal care: CHF 100-200 per month

• Clothing is slightly more expensive than in other countries in Europe
• Hairdresser: CHF 30-80

Note the price differences by region

The costs vary considerably by canton. Zurich and Geneva are the most expensive, but smaller cantons like Uri and Glarus are far more affordable. Important: you also earn more in expensive cities, so the balance remains intact. Even within one supermarket, prices can vary by up to 20% by region.

‍

takeoff tips to save money

• Share your home — saves an additional CHF 500-800 per month
• Shop at Migros, Aldi or Lidl instead of Coop
• Get a Half Fare Card for discounts on public transport
• Compare health insurances yearly
• Take advantage of free outdoor activities and tips from you takeoff community

Your takeoff to Switzerland

Yes, living in Switzerland is more expensive than in the Netherlands. But when you look at the whole picture — the high salary, the low taxes, the great lifestyle and what you can keep — it's an excellent choice for ambitious physical therapists.

‍

At takeoff, we've already helped more than 70 physical therapists move to Switzerland. We know exactly what you're up against and how we can help you with all the practical issues.

‍

Ready to start your adventure?

We'll help you with:

• Finding the perfect job that suits you
• You Apply for SRK recognition
• Finding your new home
• All the practical things about your move

Find out how we help you here and start your adventure today. Because with the right guidance, your dream of working in Switzerland will be a lot easier and more affordable than you think!

‍