Living in Geneva as an Expat
International city hosting the United Nations, WHO, Red Cross, and hundreds of international organizations and NGOs.
International hub, diplomatic capital, French-speaking
About Geneva
International city hosting the United Nations, WHO, Red Cross, and hundreds of international organizations and NGOs.
The city is located in Geneva canton with a population of around 203,000 in the city proper and 600,000 in the metro area. The primary language is French, though English is commonly spoken in business and international settings.
Cost of Living in Geneva
Budget planning is essential for living in Geneva. Here's a breakdown of typical monthly expenses.
Rent (1BR apartment)
CHF 1,700-2,500
Health Insurance
CHF 380-520
Public Transport (Annual)
CHF 500 (TPG pass)
Groceries (monthly)
CHF 400-600
Eating Out (meal)
CHF 22-38
Internet & Phone
CHF 80-120
CHF 65,000-85,000 (entry-level) to CHF 110,000-180,000+ (experienced)
Best Neighborhoods in Geneva
Each neighborhood in Geneva offers different advantages, price ranges, and lifestyle options.
Centre Ville
CHF 2,800+Historic city center with luxury shopping, restaurants, and lakefront access
- Central location
- Cultural attractions
- Walkable
- •Very expensive
- •Tourist crowds
- •Limited parking
Diplomats and executives
Eaux-Vives
CHF 2,400-3,200Upscale lakeside neighborhood with parks, restaurants, and international community
- Lakefront location
- Good restaurants
- International schools nearby
- •Expensive
- •Can be touristy
- •High demand
International families
Carouge
CHF 1,800-2,400Bohemian district with Italian influence, artisan shops, and vibrant atmosphere
- Artistic community
- Good nightlife
- Relatively affordable
- •Can be noisy
- •Limited parking
- •Older buildings
Young professionals and artists
Nations (International Area)
CHF 2,000-2,800Modern district near UN and international organizations with diverse community
- International environment
- Good transport
- Modern apartments
- •Less Swiss character
- •Office area feel
- •Busy traffic
UN and NGO workers
Job Market in Geneva
Geneva is the international capital with over 200 international organizations. Strong in diplomacy, humanitarian work, private banking, commodities trading, and luxury goods. Major employers include UN, WHO, Red Cross, CERN, and private banks.
International Organizations
UN agencies, WHO, Red Cross, and hundreds of NGOs and diplomatic missions.
Private Banking & Trading
Wealth management, commodities trading, and financial services.
Luxury & Watchmaking
Headquarters of luxury brands, particularly in watchmaking and jewelry.
Essential Information for Geneva Expats
Health Insurance
Health insurance premiums in Geneva range from CHF 380-520/mo. Compare providers carefully.
Health Insurance GuideFinding Housing
Housing market can be competitive. Start searching early and prepare all documents.
Housing GuidePublic Transport
Efficient trams, buses, and boats. Compact city easy to navigate. Annual pass costs CHF 500 (TPG pass).
Transport GuideCompare Other Swiss Cities
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