Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries, where people from all over the world visit. But, apart from its natural beauty, it also offers some incredible opportunities. Switzerland ranks in top 30 countries for healthcare system, top 6th for education system and what not. Some top universities of Switzerland are amongst the best in the world with prominent names like ETH Zurich, the University of Geneva and EPFL.
As Switzerland is so developed, it has a high quality of living and for that costs are generally high. But exactly how much? Data collected from Indian students or professionals living in Switzerland have shared some useful insights:
How much do Indian students spend per month?
The Cost of living in Switzerland ranges from CHF 2,000–CHF 3,500 (INR 2.16L - 3.78L), depending on the city and lifestyle.
Groceries cost CHF 300–CHF 600 (INR 32.5K - 65K) per month. Stores like Migros, Coop, and Aldi have affordable options.
Public transport passes cost CHF 70–CHF 100 (INR 7500 - 10800) per month, and students get discounts.
What about job opportunities?
Switzerland has big companies like Nestlé, Novartis, and UBS, attracting professionals from around the world.
Part-time jobs help students cover costs, but Swiss work regulations limit international students to 15 hours per week during the semester.
Switzerland may seem expensive, but smart budgeting makes student life manageable.
This blog covers everything from accommodation and food to transport and student discounts. Ready to plan your budget?
Switzerland is a dream destination for many Indian students. The universities are world-class, the cities are safe, and career opportunities are endless. But what about living expenses?
Zurich and Geneva cost the most, while Bern, Lausanne, and Basel are more budget-friendly. Students who choose shared housing, student meal plans, and public transport passes can save a good amount every month.
Annual Cost of Living in Switzerland for Indian Students (2025)
Expense
2024 Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
2025 Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Increase (%)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
CHF 800–CHF 1,500 (INR78K–INR1.4L)
CHF 900–CHF 1,800 (INR87K–INR1.6L)
10%
Groceries
CHF 350–CHF 600 (INR34K–INR58K)
CHF 400–CHF 650 (INR38K–INR62K)
8%
Public Transport
CHF 70–CHF 100 (INR6,700–INR9,600)
CHF 75–CHF 110 (INR7,200–INR10.5K)
6%
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
CHF 100–CHF 150 (INR9,600–INR14.4K)
CHF 110–CHF 160 (INR10.5K–INR15.3K)
7%
Monthly Cost of Living in Switzerland for Indian Students
Expense Category
Monthly Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
CHF 900–CHF 1,800 (INR87K–INR1.6L)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
CHF 110–CHF 160 (INR10.5K–INR15.3K)
Groceries
CHF 400–CHF 650 (INR38K–INR62K)
Eating Out (Occasionally)
CHF 120–CHF 250 (INR11.5K–INR24K)
Public Transport
CHF 75–CHF 110 (INR7,200–INR10.5K)
Health Insurance (Mandatory for Students)
CHF 100–CHF 250 (INR9.6K–INR24K)
Entertainment & Miscellaneous
CHF 100–CHF 250 (INR9.6K–INR24K)
Total Estimated Cost (Monthly)
CHF 2,000–CHF 3,500 (INR1.9L–INR3.3L)
Tips to Save Money:
Apply for student housing early to get lower rent.
Shop at Aldi, Lidl, and Coop for cheaper groceries.
Get a student public transport pass to save CHF 30–CHF 50 per month.
Cost of Accommodation in Switzerland: Renting vs. Student Housing
Finding the right place to live is one of the first things students worry about. Should you rent an apartment or apply for student housing? The right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and how early you apply.
Student housing is the cheapest option, but spaces are limited. Shared apartments help cut costs, while private studios offer more privacy but come at a higher price. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
Annual Accommodation: Cost of Living in Switzerland for Indian Students
Accommodation Type
Annual Rent (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Pros
Cons
Student Housing (On-Campus)
CHF 4,800–CHF 10,800 (INR4.6L–INR10.3L)
Cheaper, near university
Limited availability
Shared Apartment (Off-Campus)
CHF 10,800–CHF 21,600 (INR10.3L–INR20.7L)
More independence
Higher rent
Private Studio (1BHK)
CHF 18,000–CHF 30,000 (INR17.3L–INR28.8L)
Privacy, fully furnished
Expensive, utilities extra
ETH Zurich and the University of Geneva have a high demand for on-campus housing, so applying early is key to securing affordable student dorms.
Monthly Rent Breakdown by City
City
Shared Apartment Rent (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Studio (1BHK) Rent (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Zurich
CHF 1,200–CHF 1,800 (INR1.15L–INR1.73L)
CHF 2,200–CHF 3,000 (INR2.1L–INR2.88L)
Geneva
CHF 1,000–CHF 1,700 (INR96K–INR1.63L)
CHF 1,800–CHF 2,800 (INR1.73L–INR2.69L)
Lausanne
CHF 900–CHF 1,500 (INR87K–INR1.44L)
CHF 1,500–CHF 2,500 (INR1.44L–INR2.4L)
Bern
CHF 850–CHF 1,400 (INR82K–INR1.35L)
CHF 1,500–CHF 2,400 (INR1.44L–INR2.3L)
Basel
CHF 850–CHF 1,300 (INR82K–INR1.25L)
CHF 1,400–CHF 2,300 (INR1.34L–INR2.2L)
Best Budget-Friendly Cities: Basel and Bern have lower rent than Zurich and Geneva.
Hidden Housing Cost of Living in Switzerland to Budget For
Many students focus only on rent but forget about deposits, utilities, and move-in costs.
Expense
Estimated Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Security Deposit (1–3 months’ rent)
CHF 1,500–CHF 4,500 (INR1.44L–INR4.3L)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
CHF 100–CHF 160 (INR9.6K–INR15.3K)
Furniture & Setup Costs (If Renting Unfurnished)
CHF 500–CHF 2,000 (INR48K–INR1.9L)
How to Reduce Housing Costs:
Apply for student housing early – on-campus dorms are much cheaper than private rentals.
Look for shared apartments – splitting rent with roommates can cut costs by 40%.
Check for fully furnished listings – saves CHF 1,000+ on furniture setup.
Cost of Living in Switzerland: Food Habits and Grocery for Indian Students
Food takes up a significant part of a student’s budget in Switzerland. Eating out is expensive, but cooking at home makes a big difference. Indian students often look for affordable grocery options to buy essentials like rice, dal, spices, and vegetables. Knowing where to shop and what to cook can save CHF 200–CHF 400 (INR19K–INR38K) per month.
How Much Do Indian Students Spend on Food in Switzerland?
Expense
Average Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Groceries (Monthly, Cooking at Home)
CHF 300–CHF 600 (INR29K–INR58K)
Budget Meal (Fast Food, Takeaway)
CHF 12–CHF 18 (INR1,150–INR1,730) per meal
Mid-Range Restaurant Meal
CHF 25–CHF 40 (INR2,400–INR3,800) per meal
Fine Dining (Three-Course Meal for Two)
CHF 80–CHF 150 (INR7,600–INR14,400)
Tip: Cooking at home saves up to CHF 500 (INR48K) per month compared to eating out daily.
Where Do Indian Students Buy Groceries in Switzerland?
Store Type
Examples
What to Expect
Discount Supermarkets
Lidl, Aldi, Denner
Cheapest groceries, good for students
Mid-Range Supermarkets
Coop, Migros
Good quality, reasonable prices
Indian & Asian Grocery Stores
Aggarwal Indian Food (Zurich), Bollywood Indian Store (Geneva)
Dal, rice, spices—higher prices than local stores
Traditional Markets
Local farmer’s markets
Fresh vegetables, dairy, and meat
Tip: Buy staples like rice, atta, and masalas in bulk from Indian stores to save money. Lidl and Aldi offer the best deals on fresh vegetables, dairy, and bread.
How Indian Students Can Reduce Food Costs
Shop smart: Buy fresh produce from farmer’s markets and essentials from discount stores. Meal prep: Cooking in bulk saves time and money. Use student meal plans: University cafeterias offer meals for CHF 6–CHF 12, much cheaper than restaurants. Split groceries with roommates: Sharing bulk purchases reduces waste and cost.
Public Transport vs. Private Transport: What’s Cheaper for Students?
Switzerland has one of the most efficient public transport systems in the world. Students rely on trains, trams, and buses to get around, while only a few own cars due to high fuel and insurance costs.
A monthly student public transport pass costs CHF 70–CHF 120 (INR6,700–INR11,500) and covers unlimited travel within the city. Owning a car costs at least CHF 500 (INR48K) per month, making public transport the best option for students.
Monthly Transport Costs for Students
Transport Option
Monthly Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
What’s Covered?
Public Transport (Bus, Tram, Train Pass)
CHF 70–CHF 120 (INR6,700–INR11,500)
Unlimited travel within the city
Taxi Ride (5 km)
CHF 20–CHF 30 (INR1,900–INR2,900)
One-way trip
Car Rental (Long-Term Lease)
CHF 400–CHF 700 (INR38K–INR67K)
Includes insurance & maintenance
Fuel (Per Liter)
CHF 1.80 (INR170–INR180)
Petrol or diesel costs
Car Insurance (Annual)
CHF 800–CHF 2,000 (INR76K–INR1.9L)
Required for private car owners
Tip: Students get transport discounts of up to 50% on Swiss Travel Passes, making public transport an even better choice.
Public Transport vs. Private Transport: Which One Is Better for Students?
Factor
Public Transport
Private Car
Monthly Cost
CHF 70–CHF 120 (INR6,700–INR11,500)
CHF 400–CHF 700 (INR38K–INR67K)
Convenience
Available everywhere
Parking is expensive
Flexibility
Fixed routes & schedules
Travel anywhere anytime
Long-Distance Travel
High-speed trains (SBB) are fast & cheap
Fuel & tolls add costs
Best Ways to Save on Transport:
Buy a Swiss Travel Pass for long-distance travel discounts.
Use bike-sharing services for short distances.
Book train tickets early to save up to 30% on fares.
Most students choose public transport because it’s affordable, reliable, and easy to use. Owning a car adds CHF 400–CHF 700 (INR38K–INR67K) per month in extra costs, making it impractical for student life.
How Much Do Health Insurance and Medical Services Cost in Switzerland?
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in Switzerland. Unlike some countries where public healthcare is free, Switzerland requires every resident—including students—to have private health insurance. The good news? Students get discounted rates with special health insurance plans designed for international students.
Expect to spend CHF 100–CHF 250 (INR9,600–INR24,000) per month on health insurance, depending on the provider and coverage.
Health Insurance Costs for Students in Switzerland
Insurance Type
Monthly Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Coverage
Basic Student Health Insurance
CHF 100–CHF 250 (INR9,600–INR24,000)
Doctor visits, hospital stays, medical tests
Comprehensive Private Insurance
CHF 250–CHF 500 (INR24,000–INR48,000)
Extra benefits (dental, vision, alternative treatments)
Emergency Doctor Visit (Without Insurance)
CHF 100–CHF 300 (INR9,600–INR28,800)
Consultation only
Specialist Visit (Dermatologist, ENT, etc.)
CHF 150–CHF 400 (INR14,400–INR38,400)
Consultation + treatment
Hospital Stay (Per Night, Without Insurance)
CHF 500–CHF 2,000 (INR48,000–INR1.9L)
Treatment + accommodation
Switzerland’s healthcare system is ranked #2 in the world for efficiency and quality.
How to Get Student Health Insurance?
Choose a provider – SwissCare, CSS, Helsana, and Assura offer special student plans.
Apply within 3 months of arriving in Switzerland.
Get an exemption – If you have equivalent private insurance from India or another country, you may not need Swiss insurance (depends on canton rules).
Tip: Some universities offer group health plans at lower rates—check with student services.
Ways to Save on Healthcare Costs
Choose a student-specific health plan—cheaper than standard insurance.
Visit public hospitals instead of private clinics for lower fees.
Use telemedicine services for minor issues—many insurance plans cover online consultations.
Ask for generic medicines—they cost 30–50% less than branded ones.
Which Swiss Cities Are Most Affordable for Students?
Switzerland has a reputation for being expensive, but some cities offer a lower cost of living than others. Zurich and Geneva are among the priciest, while Bern, Lausanne, and Basel provide a balance between affordability and quality education.
Most Affordable Swiss Cities for Students
City
Monthly Living Cost (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Why It’s Affordable
Bern
CHF 1,800–CHF 2,500 (INR1.73L–INR2.4L)
Lower rent, student-friendly lifestyle
Basel
CHF 1,900–CHF 2,600 (INR1.82L–INR2.5L)
Cheaper rent, strong public transport
Lausanne
CHF 2,000–CHF 2,800 (INR1.9L–INR2.7L)
Student discounts on housing and transport
St. Gallen
CHF 1,700–CHF 2,400 (INR1.6L–INR2.3L)
Smaller city, lower living costs
Fribourg
CHF 1,600–CHF 2,300 (INR1.5L–INR2.2L)
One of the cheapest student cities
Best Budget-Friendly City? Bern offers great affordability while being close to major universities.
Cost of Living in Switzerland Breakdown: Expensive vs. Affordable Cities
Expense
Zurich/Geneva (Expensive Cities)
Bern/Basel (More Affordable Cities)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
CHF 1,200–CHF 1,800 (INR1.15L–INR1.73L)
CHF 900–CHF 1,400 (INR87K–INR1.35L)
Public Transport Pass
CHF 75–CHF 120 (INR7,200–INR11,500)
CHF 50–CHF 90 (INR4,800–INR8,700)
Groceries
CHF 400–CHF 650 (INR38K–INR62K)
CHF 300–CHF 550 (INR28K–INR52K)
Eating Out (Budget Meal)
CHF 20–CHF 30 (INR1,900–INR2,900)
CHF 15–CHF 25 (INR1,440–INR2,400)
Tip:Fribourg and St. Gallen are 40% cheaper than Zurich and Geneva.
What Makes a City Affordable for Students?
Lower rent and student housing options – Bern and Basel have cheaper shared apartments.
Good public transport with student discounts – Many cities offer free or discounted passes.
Cheaper food and groceries – Smaller cities have lower prices at supermarkets and restaurants.
Part-time job opportunities – Some cities have more work options for students.
Unexpected Expenses You Should Budget for While Studying in Switzerland
Rent, fees, food, and transport are easy to plan for. But what about the things you don’t think about—visa renewals, housing deposits, medical costs, or even buying winter clothes? These extras add up faster than you expect.
Most students don’t realize how much these small expenses can impact their budget. A last-minute flight home, a new SIM card, or even textbooks can cost more than planned. Setting aside CHF 2,000–CHF 3,000 (INR1.9L–INR2.9L) per year for these costs keeps you covered. No surprises, no stress.
Tip: Booking flights early and applying for student discounts can save CHF 500–CHF 1,000 (INR48K–INR96K) per year.
Other Unexpected Expenses to Keep in Mind
Bank Fees & Currency Exchange: Some Swiss banks charge CHF 5–CHF 10 per month for account maintenance.
Mobile Plans: Budget CHF 20–CHF 50 per month for Swiss SIM cards from Sunrise, Swisscom, or Salt.
Event & Travel Costs: Weekend trips within Switzerland can cost CHF 50–CHF 200 per trip.
Knowing these costs upfront helps you plan better. Setting aside CHF 2,000–CHF 3,000 (INR1.9L–INR2.9L) per year for hidden expenses ensures you’re financially prepared.
How Indian Students Can Save Money While Studying in Switzerland
Switzerland is expensive, but you don’t have to spend more than necessary. Picking the right housing, using student discounts, and cooking at home can save CHF 500–CHF 800 (INR48K–INR77K) every month.
A few smart choices make a big difference. Want to cut costs without missing out? Here’s how students keep expenses low while enjoying life in Switzerland.
Best Ways to Save Money in Switzerland
Category
How to Save Money?
Accommodation
Apply for student housing (CHF 400–CHF 900/month) instead of private rentals.
Food & Groceries
Shop at Aldi, Lidl, and Coop for budget groceries. Buy in bulk with roommates.
Public Transport
Get a Swiss Travel Pass or regional student discounts to save CHF 30–CHF 50/month.
Health Insurance
Compare plans and choose basic student health insurance (CHF 100–CHF 250/month).
Books & Study Materials
Borrow from university libraries or buy second-hand books.
Entertainment & Shopping
Use student discount cards for restaurants, theaters, and online shopping.
CAF Housing Allowance: Some students qualify for CHF 100–CHF 300 per month in rent subsidies—check with local authorities.
Biggest Savings? Rent, food, and transport. Choosing student housing and cooking at home can save CHF 12,000+ (INR11.5L) per year.
Bonus Tips for Cutting Cost of Living in Switzerland
Apply for Student Discounts: Get discounts on travel, museums, gyms, and restaurants with your student ID.
Use Public Transport Instead of Taxis: The Swiss public transport system is one of the best in the world.
Cook Meals Instead of Eating Out: A home-cooked meal costs CHF 5–CHF 8, while eating out costs CHF 25+.
Join University Groups for Second-Hand Books & Furniture: Many students sell items for half the original price.
Work Part-Time: Students can work 15 hours per week during the semester to earn CHF 1,200–CHF 2,400 per month
Can You Work While Studying in Switzerland? Rules and Earnings Explained
Need extra money while studying in Switzerland? You can work part-time, but there are rules. Students can work 15 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays. After six months in Switzerland, you can apply for a work permit.
Hourly wages range from CHF 20–CHF 35 (INR1,900–INR3,400) depending on the job. Part-time work in cafés, retail, and tutoring helps students cover daily expenses.
Job Type
Hourly Pay (CHF + INR Equivalent)
Max Monthly Earnings (15 hrs/week)
On-Campus Jobs
CHF 20–CHF 25 (INR1,900–INR2,400)
CHF 1,200–CHF 1,500 (INR1.1L–INR1.4L)
Retail & Café Work
CHF 22–CHF 30 (INR2,100–INR2,900)
CHF 1,300–CHF 1,800 (INR1.2L–INR1.7L)
Tutoring & Freelancing
CHF 25–CHF 35 (INR2,400–INR3,400)
CHF 1,500–CHF 2,100 (INR1.4L–INR2L)
Tip: Finding a job through your university is easier than applying off-campus.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the Cost of Living in Switzerland is essential for anyone planning to study, work, or settle in the country. While Switzerland offers exceptional quality of life, world-class infrastructure, and safety, these come with higher expenses compared to many other nations. Careful budgeting for housing, transportation, food, and healthcare can help you manage costs effectively. By planning ahead and making informed choices, you can enjoy Switzerland’s benefits without financial stress, ensuring a comfortable and well-balanced lifestyle.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Switzerland?
University Selection – Get expert advice on top Swiss universities. Visa & SOP Assistance – Step-by-step support for a smooth application. Scholarship Guidance – Explore funding options to reduce costs. Job Support – Learn how to find part-time work while studying.
Planning to study in Switzerland? upGrad Abroad helps you every step of the way! Schedule 1:1 consultation.
Is Switzerland more expensive than other European countries?
Yes, Switzerland is generally more expensive due to its strong currency, high wages, and quality infrastructure. Living expenses for housing, groceries, and services are significantly higher compared to most EU nations, especially in cities like Zurich and Geneva.
Which Swiss cities have the highest living expenses?
Zurich, Geneva, and Basel consistently rank among the most expensive due to high housing costs, premium dining, and robust job markets. Smaller towns and rural areas tend to offer comparatively lower living expenses while maintaining good quality of life.
How much does rent typically cost in Switzerland?
Rent varies widely depending on location and size. In major cities, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost CHF 1,500–2,500 per month, while smaller towns may offer similar options for CHF 900–1,500 monthly.
Are groceries expensive in Switzerland compared to neighboring countries?
Yes, groceries in Switzerland are costlier than in neighboring countries like France, Germany, or Italy. Many residents cross borders for cheaper shopping, especially for fresh produce, packaged goods, and household essentials, without compromising quality.
How much should I budget for transportation in Switzerland?
Public transport costs around CHF 80–120 monthly for city passes, while intercity travel is more expensive. Many residents opt for half-fare travel cards to reduce train and bus expenses for both daily commutes and leisure trips.
Does the cost of living differ between urban and rural Switzerland?
Absolutely. Urban areas like Zurich and Geneva have higher housing and service costs, while rural regions are more affordable. However, rural residents may incur higher transport costs if commuting to major cities for work or study.
Are healthcare expenses high in Switzerland?
Yes, healthcare is costly because it operates on a private insurance model. Monthly health insurance premiums typically range from CHF 250–400 per adult, excluding co-payments and deductibles for consultations, treatments, and prescribed medicines.
How expensive is eating out in Switzerland?
Dining at mid-range restaurants can cost CHF 25–50 per person, excluding drinks. Fast food and casual cafes are cheaper, but still pricier than many countries, making cooking at home a preferred option for budget-conscious residents.
Can students manage living costs on a budget in Switzerland?
Yes, with careful planning. Students often share accommodations, cook at home, and use student travel passes. Many also work part-time to supplement income, although jobs must comply with Swiss visa regulations for foreign students.
Are utility costs high in Switzerland?
Utilities, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection, average CHF 150–250 monthly for a standard apartment. Costs vary based on location, building energy efficiency, and personal usage habits, with older homes often being more expensive to heat.
Is it cheaper to live in Switzerland’s border regions?
Yes, living in border towns and commuting from nearby countries like France, Germany, or Italy can significantly reduce housing and grocery costs. However, cross-border commuters must factor in travel time, transport expenses, and taxation rules.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to c...
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