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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Fribourg 2024
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Cost of Living in Fribourg

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Fribourg helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category Cost
Apartment Rentals
  • 1-bedroom apartment in city center: CHF 1,200 - 1,500 per month
  • 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: CHF 1,000 - 1,300 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment in city center: CHF 2,000 - 2,500 per month
  • 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: CHF 1,700 - 2,200 per month
Apartment Purchases
  • Price per square meter in city center: CHF 7,000 - 9,000
  • Price per square meter outside city center: CHF 5,000 - 7,000
Transportation
  • One-way local transport ticket: CHF 3.50
  • Monthly local transport pass: CHF 70 - 90
  • Taxi starting tariff: CHF 6.00
  • Taxi fare per kilometer: CHF 3.00 - 3.50
  • Gasoline (1 liter): CHF 1.50 - 1.70
Groceries
  • Milk (1 liter): CHF 1.50 - 2.00
  • Bread (500g): CHF 2.00 - 3.00
  • Rice (1kg): CHF 2.50 - 4.00
  • Eggs (12): CHF 4.50 - 6.00
  • Cheese (1kg): CHF 15.00 - 25.00
  • Chicken breast (1kg): CHF 18.00 - 25.00
  • Beef round (1kg): CHF 30.00 - 40.00
  • Apples (1kg): CHF 3.00 - 4.50
  • Bananas (1kg): CHF 2.00 - 3.00
  • Oranges (1kg): CHF 3.00 - 4.00
  • Tomatoes (1kg): CHF 3.00 - 5.00
  • Potatoes (1kg): CHF 1.50 - 3.00
  • Water (1.5-liter bottle): CHF 1.00 - 2.00
  • Bottle of wine (mid-range): CHF 10.00 - 15.00
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle): CHF 1.50 - 2.50
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): CHF 2.00 - 3.50
Restaurants
  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: CHF 20.00 - 30.00
  • Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: CHF 60.00 - 100.00
  • McMeal at McDonald's: CHF 12.00 - 15.00
  • Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught): CHF 6.00 - 8.00
  • Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): CHF 5.00 - 7.00
  • Cappuccino: CHF 4.00 - 5.00
  • Coke/Pepsi (0.33-liter bottle): CHF 3.50 - 4.50
  • Water (0.33-liter bottle): CHF 3.00 - 4.00
Utilities
  • Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: CHF 150.00 - 250.00 per month
  • 1 minute of prepaid mobile tariff (no discounts or plans): CHF 0.30 - 0.50
  • Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): CHF 50.00 - 80.00 per month
Private School Tuition
  • Preschool: CHF 15,000 - 25,000 per year
  • Elementary School: CHF 20,000 - 30,000 per year
  • Middle School: CHF 25,000 - 35,000 per year
  • High School: CH

    Monthly Budget for Retirees in Fribourg

    "Living in Fribourg can be quite expensive, as is the case with most Swiss cities. The cost of housing is high, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically being significantly more than in other European cities. Utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and garbage are also quite costly.Groceries in Fribourg can be expensive as well, with basic items such as bread, milk, and eggs costing more than in many other countries. Eating out is also pricey, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costing more than in other European cities.Transportation costs can also add up, whether you're using public transportation or maintaining a personal vehicle. A monthly public transportation pass is quite expensive, and gas prices are high.Healthcare in Switzerland is known for its high quality, but it also comes with a high price tag. Mandatory health insurance premiums can be a significant monthly expense.Despite the high cost of living, many residents feel that the quality of life in Fribourg is worth the expense. The city offers a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, education, and public services, as well as a clean, safe, and beautiful environment," said one expat living in Fribourg.

    Can I live in Fribourg on $1,500 a month?

    "I've been living in Fribourg for a while now, and I can tell you that it's quite challenging to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, it's not impossible if you're willing to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your lifestyle.Firstly, you'll need to find affordable accommodation. The city center and neighborhoods like Beauregard and Bourg are quite expensive, so I'd recommend looking for a place in more affordable areas like Pérolles or Schönberg. You might also consider sharing an apartment with roommates to split the costs.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to high parking fees and fuel prices. I'd recommend using public transportation, which is quite efficient and affordable. You can get a monthly pass for around $70, which will give you unlimited access to buses and trains within the city.Eating out can also be quite pricey in Fribourg, so I'd suggest cooking at home as much as possible. You can shop for groceries at discount supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl, which offer lower prices compared to other stores like Coop or Migros. Also, try to avoid buying imported products, as they tend to be more expensive.For leisure activities, you might have to cut back on expensive hobbies and entertainment options. Instead, take advantage of the many free or low-cost activities available in the city, such as hiking, biking, or visiting local parks and museums. Fribourg also has a vibrant cultural scene, with many events and festivals throughout the year that are either free or reasonably priced.In terms of healthcare, if you're not covered by your employer's insurance, you'll need to purchase a basic health insurance plan, which can cost around $300 per month. However, you can choose a plan with a higher deductible to lower your monthly premium.Overall, living on $1,500 a month in Fribourg will require some sacrifices and adjustments, but it's not impossible if you're willing to be frugal and resourceful. Just be prepared to live a more modest lifestyle compared to what you might be used to," commented an expat living in Fribourg.

    Can I live in Fribourg on $3,500 a month?

    "I've been living in Fribourg for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living in Switzerland is quite high, especially when it comes to housing and transportation. To make it work, you'll have to be smart about where you choose to live and how you spend your money.First, let's talk about housing. If you want to live in a more affordable neighborhood, I'd recommend looking into areas like Marly, Villars-sur-Glâne, or Givisiez. These neighborhoods are a bit further from the city center, but they offer more affordable housing options. On the other hand, if you're looking for something more central, you'll have to be prepared to pay a premium. Neighborhoods like Bourg, Auge, or Neuveville are beautiful and close to everything, but they can be quite expensive.When it comes to transportation, you'll want to take advantage of the public transportation system. It's quite efficient and will save you a lot of money compared to owning a car. A monthly pass for public transportation costs around CHF 70, which is much more affordable than paying for gas, insurance, and parking.As for groceries and eating out, you'll have to be mindful of your spending. Groceries can be quite expensive in Switzerland, so I'd recommend shopping at discount supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl. Eating out can also be pricey, so try to limit how often you go to restaurants and opt for more affordable options like kebab shops or pizzerias.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Fribourg. You can enjoy the beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, visit museums on their free admission days, or take advantage of the many cultural events that take place throughout the year.Overall, living in Fribourg on $3,000 a month is doable, but you'll have to be conscious of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, and being mindful of your grocery and entertainment expenses, you can make it work and enjoy your time in this beautiful Swiss city," said one expat living in Fribourg.

    Can I live in Fribourg on $5,000 a month?

    "I've been living in Fribourg for a few years now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be smart about your spending. First, you'll want to find an affordable neighborhood to live in. I'd recommend looking into areas like Marly, Villars-sur-Glâne, or Givisiez. These neighborhoods are a bit further from the city center, but they offer more affordable housing options compared to more expensive neighborhoods like Bourg or Beauregard.When it comes to transportation, I'd suggest getting a monthly public transport pass, which will save you money compared to buying individual tickets. If you're planning to travel around Switzerland frequently, consider getting a half-fare card, which gives you a 50% discount on all public transport in the country.Eating out can be quite expensive in Switzerland, so I'd recommend cooking at home as much as possible. You can save money by shopping at discount grocery stores like Aldi or Lidl, and by buying seasonal produce at local farmers' markets. If you do want to eat out occasionally, look for daily lunch specials or "plat du jour" deals at restaurants, which are usually more affordable than dinner options.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Fribourg. You can enjoy the city's beautiful parks and green spaces, visit the many free museums and galleries, or take advantage of the numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding countryside. If you're into sports, consider joining a local sports club or gym, which can be more affordable than paying for individual classes or sessions.In summary, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Fribourg is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, using public transport, cooking at home, and taking advantage of free or low-cost leisure activities, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Fribourg.

    About the Author

    Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

    Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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