Zurich is often ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, and for good reason. High salaries, excellent infrastructure, and a high quality of life all come with a price.
But what does that actually mean for a student?
If you’ve just arrived and are figuring out what to do as a student, you’ve probably already noticed how quickly small expenses add up.
The good news? While Zurich is undeniably expensive, living here even as a student is actually manageable. It just requires awareness, planning, and a few smart choices.
1. Rent: The Biggest Challenge
For most students, rent is by far the biggest monthly expense. Finding housing can also be difficult and competitive, especially at the beginning of the semester.
How to save:
• Choose shared apartments (WG): 600–1000 CHF/month
• Look for student housing: 600-700 CHF/month
• Consider areas slightly outside the city center. Even living 15–20 minutes away can significantly reduce your rent.
2. Food & Groceries
Food is another major expense, especially if you eat out often.
How to save:
• Cook at home and meal prep as much as possible.
• Eat at your university’s Mensa. Most canteens offer exceptional quality and very generous quantities of food everyday, for very fair prices!
• Prefer markets like Lidl or Denner that have better prices in most products.
• Migros and Coop offer relatively affordable ready meals, as well as discounted items, especially at the end of the day.
• Buy store brands (M-Budget, Prix Garantie)
• Download the app Too Good to Go, which daily discounts in various restaurants.
3. Health Insurance (Mandatory)
As discussed in the previous article, health insurance is required for everyone living in Switzerland.
How to save:
• Some providers offer cheaper student plans, so it’s worth comparing options. You may end up saving 200 CHF per month. But bear in mind that this applies only for students who are not working.
• Extra tip: Don’t postpone choosing your insurance, because you will still have to pay retroactively from your arrival date.
• If you are an EU citizen, there is another option:
If you hold a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can apply for an exemption and avoid paying Swiss health insurance for up to one year as a student.
• Εxtra tip: Issue your EHIC right before moving to Switzerland, as it is typically valid for one year.
4. Social Life & Free Time
Living in Zurich doesn’t mean giving up your social life. It just require smarter choices.
How to save:
• Look if you can reap off student discounts where available. There can be across several gyms or cinemas.
• Sign up to your university’s newsletter for upcoming (affordable or even free) events.
• Avoid unnecessary subscriptions and search for student discounts in those you wish to keep. Apps such us Spotify offer almost half prices for students.
• Open you account at Brands for Students site, using your university’s email. There are weekly discounts in many brands.
Find out more here: Brands for Students
• Don’t hesitate to go for lakeside walks, on parks or viewpoints across the city. This is a free hobby for many locals, even for the wealthy ones.
• Join your university’s Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which is appropriate for all international students. There are many exciting events and trips going on every week! In a lower price for you, of course.
Find out more here: ESN Switzerland
5. Use Public Transport Wisely
Transport is efficient, but not always cheap.
How to save:
• Get a ZVV monthly pass only if you use it daily.
• If you’re under 25, check for discounts.
• Travel during off-peak hours when possible, for better prices
• Check out for Super Saver tickets when it comes to transports by SBB. (You didn’t learn this from me, hehe)
6. Consider buying a Bike
Once you settle in, a bike can save you money in the long run. Zurich is a relatively flat city, with perfect infrastructure for bikers. It is therefore a great option, especially in warmer months.
• No monthly transport costs.
• Flexible and fast within the city.
• Second-hand bikes are more affordable than you think.
• Plus: Consider this as a free type of exercise!
7. Buy Second-Hand
You don’t need to buy everything new. There are so many second-hand stores in Zurich, with many and stylish options. Also, don’t forget to check out:
• Facebook Marketplace
• Tutti / Ricardo
• Flea markets (perfect idea for a walk as well)
So… How much do you really need?
Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a student in Zurich:
• Rent: ~800 CHF
• Food: ~300 CHF
• Transport: ~80 CHF
• Leisure: ~200 CHF
• Insurance: ~ 50 – 300 CHF (depending on if you are working and where you live)
Total: around 1450–2000 CHF/month
Of course, this depends on your lifestyle, but it’s a solid baseline.
So, how easy is it to be a student in one of the most expensive cities in the world?
It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely possible.
As a second-year international student, I’ve realised that living in Zurich is not about spending less, it’s about spending smarter. Small decisions like the aforementioned ones can definitely make a huge difference.
👉 Watch the related video on YouTube: Explainer: How to Afford Student Life in Zurich
👉 If you’re just getting started, check out the full Zurich student guide on what to do after arriving, it will help you set everything up step by step.