Living in Bern as an Expat
Switzerland's capital city with a UNESCO-protected medieval old town and federal government center.
Capital city, UNESCO old town, government sector
About Bern
Switzerland's capital city with a UNESCO-protected medieval old town and federal government center.
The city is located in Bern canton with a population of around 134,000 in the city proper and 420,000 in the metro area. The primary language is Swiss German, though English is commonly spoken in business and international settings.
Cost of Living in Bern
Budget planning is essential for living in Bern. Here's a breakdown of typical monthly expenses.
Rent (1BR apartment)
CHF 1,200-1,700
Health Insurance
CHF 330-460
Public Transport (Annual)
CHF 780 (Libero pass)
Groceries (monthly)
CHF 350-500
Eating Out (meal)
CHF 18-28
Internet & Phone
CHF 75-110
CHF 60,000-75,000 (entry-level) to CHF 95,000-140,000+ (experienced)
Best Neighborhoods in Bern
Each neighborhood in Bern offers different advantages, price ranges, and lifestyle options.
Altstadt (Old Town)
CHF 1,800-2,400UNESCO World Heritage medieval center with arcades, fountains, and charm
- Historical beauty
- Car-free zones
- Tourist attractions
- •Expensive
- •Tourist crowds
- •Older buildings
History lovers
Länggasse-Felsenau
CHF 1,100-1,600Student district near university with affordable housing and vibrant atmosphere
- Affordable
- Young crowd
- Good bars and cafes
- •Can be noisy
- •Student-focused
- •Limited family amenities
Students and young professionals
Kirchenfeld-Schosshalde
CHF 1,600-2,200Upscale residential area with embassies, museums, and green spaces
- Quiet
- Prestigious
- Beautiful buildings
- •Expensive
- •Less vibrant
- •Fewer shops
Diplomats and families
Wankdorf
CHF 1,300-1,800Modern business district with stadium, shopping center, and good connections
- Modern amenities
- Good transport
- Affordable
- •Less character
- •Commercial area
- •Away from old town
Practical-minded professionals
Job Market in Bern
Bern is the federal capital with strong government and public administration sectors. University of Bern is a major employer. Growing health tech sector. Generally more relaxed pace than Zurich or Geneva with good work-life balance.
Government & Administration
Federal government, ministries, and international postal union headquarters.
Education & Research
University of Bern and research institutions in various fields.
Healthcare & Med Tech
Inselspital hospital and growing health technology companies.
Essential Information for Bern Expats
Health Insurance
Health insurance premiums in Bern range from CHF 330-460/mo. Compare providers carefully.
Health Insurance GuideFinding Housing
Housing market can be competitive. Start searching early and prepare all documents.
Housing GuidePublic Transport
Compact city with good trams and buses. Most areas walkable. Annual pass costs CHF 780 (Libero pass).
Transport GuideCompare Other Swiss Cities
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