Accommodation Guide
Find your perfect home in Switzerland
Swiss Housing Market Overview
Finding accommodation in Switzerland can be challenging due to high demand and limited supply, especially in major cities. The rental market is highly regulated, offering strong tenant protections but also requiring thorough documentation and references.
Start your search early, prepare all required documents in advance, and be ready to act quickly when you find suitable properties. Understanding the local market and having realistic expectations will help you secure housing more efficiently.
Housing Options
Rental Apartments
Most common housing option for newcomers
- Furnished or unfurnished
- Long-term contracts (1+ years)
- Deposit required (2-3 months rent)
- Notice period (3 months)
Shared Housing (WG)
Cost-effective option, especially in cities
- Shared kitchen/bathroom
- Shorter contracts possible
- Lower deposits
- Social environment
Temporary Housing
Short-term solution while searching
- Serviced apartments
- Corporate housing
- Extended stay hotels
- Flexible terms
Housing Search Process
Prepare Required Documents
Gather all necessary paperwork before starting your search
1-2 weeks before searchResearch Areas & Budget
Identify preferred locations and realistic budget based on income
1 weekSearch Online Platforms
Use multiple housing websites and set up alerts for new listings
OngoingSchedule Viewings
Book apartment viewings quickly - good properties go fast
Same day as listingSubmit Applications
Apply immediately with complete documentation package
Within 24 hoursRequired Documents
Document Checklist
Prepare these documents before starting your housing search
Top Housing Platforms
Essential websites and platforms for finding accommodation in Switzerland.
Homegate
Major PlatformSwitzerland's largest real estate platform with comprehensive listings nationwide.
- Largest selection
- Advanced filters
- Mobile app
- Email alerts
ImmoScout24
Major PlatformPopular platform with good coverage across Switzerland, especially strong in German-speaking areas.
- Good search tools
- Detailed listings
- Map view
- Saved searches
Comparis
Comparison PlatformAggregates listings from multiple sources and offers price comparison tools.
- Price comparisons
- Market insights
- Multiple sources
- Rental calculator
WG Zimmer
Shared HousingSpecialized platform for shared housing and room rentals, popular with students and young professionals.
- Room shares
- Student housing
- Temporary stays
- Community features
Cost Considerations
Upfront Costs
- Security deposit:2-3 months rent
- First month rent:1 month
- Agency fees:0-1 month rent
Monthly Costs
- Utilities (Nebenkosten):CHF 150-300
- Internet:CHF 50-80
- Parking (if needed):CHF 100-200
Housing Search Tips
- Start your search early - good properties are competitive
- Have all documents ready in digital format for quick applications
- Consider hiring a relocation service for executive-level positions
- Budget for additional costs: utilities, internet, parking, storage
- Understand Swiss rental laws - tenant rights are strong
- Network through colleagues and expat communities for insider tips
- Consider joining the Swiss Tenants' Association (Mieterverband) for tenant protection and legal advice
Ready to Start Your Search?
Make sure you have your legal status sorted first, then prepare your documentation and start exploring the housing market.