Affordable Living in Zurich as a Student

Zurich is infamous for high living costs, but you can still enjoy Switzerland's priciest city on a student budget.

1. Average Rent Costs in Zurich

Zurich housing is not cheap. A room in a shared apartment (WG) on the private market typically costs around CHF 800 - 1400 per month. Small studios start at CHF 1500, but in central areas they can easily be CHF 2000+Zurich Costs - Numbeo Zurich Rent Prices - Immomapper. And note that the more affordable the apartment the more compeition there is for the contract. Students have a hard time winning these. That means students need to be resourceful and proactive to avoid blowing their budget on rent.

2. Housing Options to Save Money

The first goal is to obtain student housing. WOKO Student Housing and JUWO Youth Housing offer rooms to students at below-market rates UZH Housing Guide. There are 4500 WOKO rooms plus a handful of other organisations providing student housing. That means there are enough rooms for around 10% of the students in Zurich and these spots are in extremely high demand – apply early and follow their rules to the letter.

The UZH/ETH Housing Office maintains listings of affordable rooms and short-term accommodation specifically for students.

Moving outside of Zurich gives you a higher chance of finding a cheaper room on the private market and thanks to Switzerland's excellent transport the commutes are perfectly manageable. We have a guide for commuting from the suburbs which covers some of the best options.

Rather than signing a long term lease with a bad deal, it can be better cheaper to find a temporary place on first arriving in Zurich while you search. Our last minute student housing guide has an extensive list of options.

3. Financing & Student Discounts

Make sure you're taking advantage of every financial aid option. Both the government (cantons) and universities offer need-based support to students. These won't cover all your expenses, but every bit helps. Don't hesitate to apply if you're eligible. Scholarships & Financial Aid Guide.

Always ask for student discounts. Many services in Zurich have reduced rates for students. A top priority is public transport: get the Half-Fare Card - SBB (Halbtax) to slash all train, tram and bus fares by 50% Student Travel - SBB. If you're under 25, add the Night GA for unlimited free travel after 7 p.m. for just CHF 99 a year Night Travel - SBB- a no-brainer if you enjoy evenings out or live far from the city.

Look for other student deals too: gyms, museums, cinemas, and even some restaurants offer student prices. Always carry your student ID. For a full breakdown of living expenses, see our Cost of Living in Zurich guide.

4. Enjoying Zurich on a Budget

Zurich is a fantastic city for free activities. The city's parks and outdoor spaces are world-class. Hang out by Lake Zurich or along the Limmat. Run and walk in the woods and hills surrounding the city. Many of the city's best events are free as well - the annual Street Parade, for example, is one of the biggest open-air parties in Europe and completely free to attend . Though it is extremely hectic so prepare yourselfStreet Parade Guide.

Throughout the year, you'll find free festivals, open-air concerts, and public celebrations (from summer open-air cinema nights to Christmas markets). Keep an eye on local event calendars Zurich City Official Calendarand keep your eyes open as you wander around the city as you will often spot posters for upcoming events.

For culture, note that many museums have free entry on certain days or discounted student tickets – for instance, the Kunsthaus art museum is free on Wednesdays.

5. Food & Groceries

When it comes to food and groceries, be strategic. Cook at home and shop smart. Discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi are far cheaper than Coop or Migros. For ultra-budget grocery shopping, check out the Caritas Market - with a free "KulturLegi" card, students with tight budgets can buy essentials at up to 70% off retail pricesCaritas Market.

Consider joining foodsharing groups, these communities very active in Zurich. They rescue surplus food and distribute it for free to its members. A win-win: you save money and help reduce food wasteFoodsharing Zürich. You need to contribute as well by picking up food when it's your turn.

6. Furnishing

Finally, if you are not in a furnished student room, furnish your student life second-hand. Zurich has a strong culture of recycling and reusing. The flea markets like the Kanzlei Flohmarkt (held every Saturday year-round at Helvetiaplatz) or the Bürkliplatz flea market in the summer are often mentioned, but if you're coming from outside Switzerland their prices will still suprise you Bürkliplatz flea market. Better options exist.

There is a telegram group where people give away furniture and Facebook groups for students are also a great place to look. The best secondhand stores in the city are:

The rest are all painfully expensive for secondhand items. Something you will have to get used to in Zurich.