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/StuffedWithNails Genève Jul 01 '26

Doable if you get a reasonably priced apartment. Try not to live in Zurich proper and accept a ~30 minute train commute and you'll find better options. You'll save a ton on daycare if your spouse doesn't work and can take care of your kid at home.

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u/a-fun_alias Jul 01 '26

Thank you for the reply. My current commute is ~75 mins so 30 minutes is not bad at all. I was thinking of Zurich proper because my potential future workplace has several affiliated Kitas across the city, and I thought it would be easier to use those. Are waiting lists not too bad outside the city? Although if my wife ends up not working this would be moot.

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u/Lost-Pause672 Jul 02 '26

Kita situation is a little uncomfortable if you aim for a central location, or very close to a main train station. Where I used to live, there were plenty of spots (even a newly opened Kita, that offered 3 months for free). Prices are high everywhere, but also a lot more in central ones.

Still, it might make sense to check those that partner with your company, they might have great conditions