Student Housing in Switzerland: Complete Guide (2024 Prices & Options)

 



Finding the right student accommodation in Switzerland as an international student can be both exciting and challenging. From university dorms to private rentals and fully furnished apartments, there are plenty of options—but navigating the Swiss rental market can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of housing available for students, providing practical tips to help you find a place to live that suits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Whether you're looking for cheap student accommodation in Switzerland or the convenience of fully furnished apartments, we’ve got you covered!

1. Student Accommodation in Switzerland

Unlike many other countries, most Swiss universities do not offer their own student accommodation. However, many universities do have a housing office or partnerships with private housing organizations to help international students find temporary student housing in Switzerland. A great resource to start your search is Study in Switzerland, which offers links to housing associations for some of the most popular universities among international students, like ETH Zurich, University of Geneva, and University of Lausanne.

Swiss University Accommodation

Private businesses often manage dormitories and student accommodations, designed specifically for students. These options are popular because they are generally affordable, fully furnished, and utilities like electricity, water, and Wi-Fi are included in the rent. Basic furnishings typically include a bed, wardrobe, and access to a shared or fully equipped kitchen.

  • Advantages: Affordable, utilities included, furnished with essential items.
  • Disadvantages: Limited availability in high-demand cities.

Student Housing Near Universities

For students attending schools in major cities like ETH Zurich, University of Geneva, or University of Basel, there are a variety of student housing near universities. These accommodations offer proximity to campus and easy access to public transportation.

  • Cost: Expect to pay CHF 450–900 depending on the city and type of accommodation.

Student Hostels

Student hostels are another great option, especially for those looking for fully furnished spaces with added benefits. Hostels come with shared kitchens, lounges, and study areas. Depending on the category you choose, you might also get a private bathroom. Some hostels even offer full-board or half-board options, meaning you won’t have to worry about cooking.

These hostels are an excellent way to meet other international students while keeping Switzerland student housing costs down.

  • Advantages: Fully furnished, utilities included (including Wi-Fi), communal areas for socializing, food options available.
  • Disadvantages: Shared kitchen, limited privacy.

2. Private Rentals for Students

If university accommodations or student hostels don’t suit your preferences, private rentals offer more independence but can be more expensive. Switzerland’s rental market is competitive, particularly in major cities, so it’s essential to start your search early and know what to expect.

Apartment Hunting Tips

When searching for a rental, popular platforms like Homegate.ch, Immoscout24.ch, and Facebook groups can be helpful. Private rentals require more paperwork and often involve security deposits and credit checks. Landlords may expect you to provide proof of income or a guarantor to ensure rent payments. Keep in mind that having a Swiss student residence permit is often required by landlords as proof that you're legally allowed to live and study in Switzerland.

  • Expectations: Typically, Swiss landlords ask for a security deposit of up to three months' rent. Be prepared for credit checks and proof of financial stability.

Renting a Shared Flat (WG)

A popular housing option among students in Switzerland, WGs involve sharing an apartment with other tenants to reduce living costs. While these arrangements offer flexibility and cost efficiency, apartments may not come furnished and require good communication among flatmates to avoid conflicts.

  • Cost:
    • Major cities (Zurich, Geneva): CHF 800-1,200 per month
    • Smaller cities (Basel, Lucerne, St. Gallen): CHF 600-900 per month
  • Utilities: Typically split between tenants, including:
    • Electricity
    • Heating
    • Wi-Fi
    • Other shared expenses

Switzerland Student Housing Costs: Popular Cities

Here’s a snapshot of rental costs in popular student cities across Switzerland:

  • Zurich: CHF 700–1,200 for a WG room, CHF 1,500+ for a small apartment.
  • Geneva: CHF 800–1,300 for a WG room, CHF 1,600+ for an apartment.
  • Lausanne: CHF 600–1,000 for a WG room, CHF 1,400+ for an apartment.
  • Basel: CHF 600–900 for a WG room, CHF 1,300+ for an apartment.
  • Lucerne: CHF 500–800 for a WG room, CHF 1,200+ for an apartment.
  • St. Gallen: CHF 450–700 for a WG room, CHF 1,000+ for an apartment.
  • Lugano: CHF 500–800 for a WG room, CHF 1,100+ for an apartment.

3. Furnished Apartments and Aparthotels

For students looking for convenience and flexibility, furnished apartments or aparthotels are an appealing option. These accommodations are fully equipped and ready for you to move in immediately, but they do come at a higher price compared to traditional rentals.

Convenience for Short-Term Stays

Furnished apartments are great for students who may be staying for only a semester or for expats who don’t want to go through the hassle of buying and moving furniture. Aparthotels, which are like serviced apartments, offer the comforts of home with added amenities like housekeeping services.

  • Why choose this? If you don’t want to deal with the complications of Swiss rental agreements or need flexibility in the length of your stay, these options are ideal for temporary student housing in Switzerland.

The High Cost of Convenience

While convenient, furnished apartments and aparthotels come with a higher price tag. Expect to pay CHF 1,300–4,000 per month depending on the city, amenities, and the type of accommodation.

Recommendation: City Pop

One popular serviced apartment provider is City Pop, which offers furnished apartments in major Swiss cities like Zurich, Lausanne, Lugano, and Geneva. City Pop caters to students, expats, and young professionals alike, and they’re expanding across Switzerland, especially in university cities. This option is ideal for students who need short-term, hassle-free rentals.

  • Why City Pop? With flexible contracts and fully furnished units, City Pop is a convenient choice for students who want comfort and ease without committing to long-term leases.

4. Tips for Navigating Swiss Housing Regulations

Switzerland has some strict housing regulations, so it’s important to be aware of these when renting. Here are key points to consider:

  • Lease Agreements: Many leases are for a fixed term, often 12 months, and require three months' notice to terminate. Be sure to read the contract thoroughly before signing.
  • Rental Insurance: Some landlords require tenants to have liability insurance to cover any damages to the property.
  • Registering Your Residence: Don’t forget to register your address with the local municipality within 14 days of moving in. Failing to do so can lead to fines.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

  • Scam Alert: Be wary of rental scams, especially when looking for accommodation online. Never send money without seeing the apartment and signing a contract.
  • Know Your Rights: Swiss tenants have strong protections under the law. If you’re unsure about anything, consult a tenants' association (Mieterverband) for advice.

Essential Tips from My Experience

  1. Start your search early – I began three months before my move
  2. Register with your local commune within 14 days of moving in (I learned this the hard way!)
  3. Always view the apartment in person before signing or sending money
  4. Join local student groups on social media – I found my WG through a university Facebook group
  5. Consider short-term solutions like youth hostels for your first few weeks if needed

5. Conclusion

Finding international student housing in Switzerland can be challenging, but there’s a solution for everyone, whether you’re looking for affordable student dorms or a convenient furnished apartment. The key is to start your search early, stay flexible, and be prepared for a competitive market.

For more tips on student life in Switzerland and help with your accommodation search, explore my other guides!



Did this guide help you? Check out our other articles about student life in Switzerland, including guides on opening a bank account, getting health insurance, and navigating the Swiss education system.

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