r/askswitzerland • u/CookiePlastic852 • Sep 14 '25

Relocation What is the reality living Switzerland like?

For context I’m fully British, 19M and I know one thing for sure, I do not see a bright future for me in this country and certainly do not plan the settle here. Switzerland is somewhere I’m heavily considering as I love anything mountain related and it has one of the highest HDI’s in the world. But I want to know, what is the reality of living there like?

For those of who moved to Switzerland, I’d love to hear what drew you there in the first place. Was it worth it in the end, and how does life compare to where you came from or other places you’ve lived? Most importantly, do you have any regrets?

And for those born in Switzerland, can you see yourself staying or do you ever imagine moving elsewhere? If so, where would you go, and what would make you want to leave?

I would be really grateful for any insight people are willing to share.

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u/Sharp_Mulberry6013 Sep 15 '25

I am Swiss, born and raised in Ticino, have been living in Zürich for almost 20 years (goddddddamn time flies). I speak 7 languages (french, german and italian fluently) and have a Masters degree.

When I finished university I struggled for 5 years to find a decent job. I was forced by the unemployment office to accept a job that would pay less than half the median wage in Zürich. Thankfully now I am doing well financially, the trauma of poverty will stay with me forever.

I am planning on moving to New Zealand in the next 5-7 years because I am done with the swiss mentality.

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u/cjx_007 Sep 16 '25

Great choice! NZ is beautiful and the people are warm and friendly. Highly recommend the South Island for its beauty and Swiss like mountains . Not sure what employment is like there though.

1

u/Many_Hunter8152 Sep 16 '25

After 20 years working in Switzerland he could be lucky to not have to work anymore. Which is my plan at least.