Zurich is a city of “despites” – for instance, despite its high cost of living, it boasts the best quality of life for international residents.
And despite being Switzerland’s largest metropolis, it also has easy access to a lot of parks and other green spaces:
Four spectacular hikes around Zurich
What makes Zurich ‘the best city in Europe’ for its residents?
Here’s what you need to know to make your adjustment process in Zurich easier:
Do your homework
Learn as much as you can ahead of time, so you are not overly shocked or surprised by what you see when you arrive.
That’s a good way to avoid too much of a culture shock and feel at home quicker.
Five things that surprise foreigners who move to Zurich
Know what’s what and where
The best way to get to know what is available in terms of public transportation, restaurants, parks, and other services and amenities, you should download various apps – each one helpful for a different aspect of your life in Zurich.
10 essential apps for foreigners living in Zurich
Language courses
The official language in Zurich (city and canton) is Swiss-German, but mastering standard German is the very least you should do to assimilate.
If you work for a multi-national company, chances are your employer will have German lessons set for their foreign employees.
If not, these are some of the places where you can take courses:
Five places to learn (Swiss) German for free in Zurich
What foreigners in Switzerland should know about language course options
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Housing
Unfortunately, finding an affordable place to live in Zurich may be your biggest challenge.
The city has been suffering from a chronic – and steadily worsening – housing shortage, and unless you have very deep pockets, you will probably have to compete with hundreds of other applicants for each available apartment.
These articles may help:
Zurich housing crisis: What can you do to find a flat to rent?
Which parts of Zurich offer the cheapest rent prices?
Now, if you are flexible about where you live, there may be more options available in the communities located outside the city, but close enough for a daily commute to work:
Five commuter villages near Zurich where it’s easier to find an apartment
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Other articles can also help you, in different ways, to know more about life in Zurich:
Eight essential phrases you need to know to get by in Zurich
Which Zurich municipalities have the lowest and highest tax rates?
EXPLAINED: Why Zurich residents are the ‘most satisfied in all of Europe’
5 reasons why Zurich is a perfect city for students… despite the costs
Do you have other suggestions for new arrivals in Zurich? Let us know in a Comments section below.
