As is the case throughout Switzerland, the cost of living in Geneva is inescapably high. The city regularly features in the top 15 most expensive expat cities in Mercer's Cost of Living Survey. The 2020 edition of the survey ranks Geneva 9th out of 209 countries. Luckily, most expats are lured to the city by high salaries, which offset the expenses they're likely to incur.
Cost of accommodation in Geneva
Accommodation is likely to be an expat's biggest expense in this Swiss city. There's a serious shortage of accommodation in Geneva, and landlords can charge a premium. Rentals can be high, even for a one-bedroom apartment on the city's outskirts. Landlords can also request up to three months' rent as a security deposit.
Expats moving to Geneva with a family and looking for a larger home may need to consider investigating housing options across the border in France. Here they will find more options with slightly better-value rental rates.
Cost of public transport in Geneva
While Geneva's public transport infrastructure is extensive and efficient, it's by no means cheap. However, it remains cheaper than owning and maintaining a car in the city. There are various discount passes to combat the expense of public travel.
The cheapest way to get around in Geneva would be by bicycle. The city is well equipped to cater for cyclists and this is a quick, efficient and cost-effective way to get about.
Cost of education in Geneva
Education is another large expense for expats with families to consider. The city has a large number of international schools, but places are hard to come by and fees are high. International school fees easily add up as parents will often also need to pay for additional costs such as textbooks, uniforms and field trips.
Cost of eating out and entertainment in Geneva
The amount an expat spends on leisure activities will depend on their personal preferences. Geneva has some excellent restaurants, but eating out, bars and clubs aren't cheap. Skiing can be quite pricey too, but there are numerous free trails for those who enjoy hiking and biking.
Cost of living in Geneva chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices in Geneva for January 2021.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
CHF 3,400 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
CHF 2,800 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
CHF 1,890 |
One-bedroom apartment outside city centre |
CHF 1,450 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
CHF 6.30 |
Milk (1 litre) |
CHF 1.60 |
Rice (1kg) |
CHF 3.13 |
Loaf of white bread (500g) |
CHF 3.05 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
CHF 24.25 |
Pack of cigarettes |
CHF 8.50 |
Eating Out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
CHF 14 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
CHF 3.60 |
Cappuccino |
CHF 4.40 |
Bottle of beer (domestic) |
CHF 8 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
CHF 100 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
CHF 0.25 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
CHF 60 |
Basic utilities per month for standard household |
CHF 230 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
CHF 4.60 |
Bus/train fare to the city centre |
CHF 3 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
CHF 1.70 |
Further reading
►For more on managing your finances, see Banking, Money and Taxes in Switzerland
Expat Experiences
"I think Switzerland is expensive compared to most countries! So it’s definitely more expensive than back home. Everything’s more expensive: the food, the rent, the insurance, the clothes, the makeup, etc., etc. Everything. I try to stock up on some things when I go home. This last time I bought a ton of books – too many to fit in my luggage!"
For more about American expat Melissa's experiences in Geneva, read our interview with her.
Are you an expat living in Geneva?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Geneva. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
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