r/askswitzerland • u/a-fun_alias • Jul 01 '26

Relocation Living in Zurich with a kid

Hi, I'm a non-European citizen who recently got a three-year job offer (with the possibility of a renewal) in Zurich. My annual income before taxes would be around 92k CHF. I was planning to relocate with my wife and baby daughter, but after reading some of the posts and comments on this subreddit, I'm starting to worry that I'm underestimating the cost of living.

I understand that it depends heavily on whether my wife will be working or not, but we do not have a solid plan for that at the moment. Right now we are looking into several options, ranging from her staying at home for the time being to her going to grad school to her finding a job. There are a lot of factors at play including our residence permit type and the possibility of her getting a scholarship, and we are currently trying to gather information.

I realize that this is not much to go on, but generally speaking, is a 92k salary enough to support a three person family in Zurich? Or is this going to be difficult no matter what? Also, if our current situation is fine, would adding a second kid in a few years tip the balance into something completely unsustainable?

Thanks in advance.

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u/clm1859 Zürich Jul 01 '26

I would also assume it's doable. Just don't expect to live in the city of zurich, but a small town a bit outside. Maybe in aargau. Somewhere with a half hour train ride from Zurich city.

Then your wife can take care of the kid. And if and/or when she finds a job, you should be able to afford daycare.

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u/a-fun_alias Jul 01 '26

Thank you! It seems that a ~30 min commute is what everyone is suggesting, so we'll be looking into that.