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Moving to Zug, Switzerland | Expat Exchange
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Zug, Switzerland

Moving to Zug, Switzerland

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Nov 08, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Zug, Switzerland for its low taxes, high quality of life, and proximity to major cities like Zurich and Lucerne. The city is also known for its picturesque lakefront and mountain views. Before moving to Zug, it is important to note that the cost of living is high, and the city is largely German-speaking. Additionally, it is important to research the local job market and housing availability before making the move.

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What do I need to know before moving to Zug?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Zug, they said:

"Zug is a small city in Switzerland with a population of around 30,000 people. It is known for its low taxes and high quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Zug is high, and that the city is very safe and secure. Expats should also be aware that the majority of the population speaks German, so it is important to learn the language before moving to Zug. Additionally, expats should be aware that the city is very small and there are limited job opportunities. Finally, expats should be aware that Zug is a very traditional city and that there are certain cultural norms that should be respected," replied a member in Switzerland.

"Get help from a good relocation agent before you come!!!! Ask as many questions as you can think of (no question is too small or silly), try to learn a bit of German (although the Swiss love to practice their english), get involved in a local networking club even if you are not a club-type person - there is a Women's Club in Zug (www.ziwc.ch) which is OK - many different types of activities and people and you can pick and choose. Let your agent advise you on areas - but try to find something not too far away from the school your child will go to - helps the child as well as increasing the chances for car pools!!," commented one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

How do I find a place to live in Zug?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Had help from an excellent relocation agent, Le Concierge. We found her and her company completely by chance (through the school magazine) and would highly, highly recommend not only her but this way of doing things - she thought of everything and asked a lot of excellent questions about us which made us re-evaluate our attitudes to moving in part," said one expat in Switzerland.

"Finding a place to live in Zug can be done by searching online for rental listings, contacting a local real estate agent, or attending a local housing fair. Additionally, many expats in Zug use online forums to connect with other expats and find housing opportunities. It is also possible to find housing through word of mouth, by asking friends and colleagues if they know of any available apartments or houses," said one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Zug?

"Expat homes and apartments in Zug are typically modern and spacious, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and feature high-end appliances. Expats in Zug can also enjoy access to a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and saunas," said one expat in Switzerland.

"4 1/2 room (3 bedrooms) apartment. Very typical. Costs SFr. 2,500 per month plus utilities of SFr. 300.- and garage SFr. 150.-," remarked one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

What is the average cost of housing in Zug?

If you are thinking about moving to Zug, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Zug is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city can cost anywhere from 1,500 to 3,000 Swiss Francs per month, while buying a property can cost upwards of 1 million Swiss Francs," said one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

"On the whole housing cost is higher but we are paying lower taxes and my husband's salary is better ehre than in the UK so overall we now have a slightly higher standard of living," explained one expat living in Switzerland.

Should I buy or rent a home in Zug?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Zug, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Zug is a great option if you plan to stay in the area for the long term. There are a variety of properties available and buying can offer the security of owning a home. However, renting can also be a viable choice depending on the length of stay you are planning. Renting can offer more flexibility and is often more cost-effective than buying in the short-term. Ultimately, it is important to evaluate your lifestyle and financial situation and decide which best suits your needs," replied a member in Switzerland.

What should I pack when moving to Zug?

We asked people living in Zug to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Zug, it is important to pack warm clothing, as the climate is cold and wet. It is also important to bring a good raincoat and umbrella, as well as sturdy shoes for walking in the rain. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items of formal clothing, as Zug is a business hub and many people dress formally for work. Finally, it is important to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and work permit," commented one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

"Should have brought: 1. Standing lamps - there were no light fittings in the apartmnet when we moved in 2. Books - English books are expensive here 3. More favourite toiletries - took me a while to find ones I like here. Could have left: 1. Back-dated magazines! 2. Plants 3. Most of the photo albums - it is SO beautiful here you'll take photos everytime you go out!!," remarked one expat in Switzerland.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Zug?

We asked people in Zug if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Zug. It is considered impolite to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local language and customs, as speaking too loudly or using inappropriate language can be seen as offensive. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to avoid making assumptions about the people or their customs," said one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

Why do people move to Zug?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Zug, they responded:

"Zug is an attractive destination for expats due to its high quality of life, excellent infrastructure, and low taxes. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its picturesque lake and mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Additionally, Zug is home to a diverse and vibrant international community, making it a great place to meet new people and make new connections. The city also offers a wide range of cultural activities, from museums and galleries to music and theater. Finally, Zug is conveniently located close to major cities such as Zurich and Lucerne, making it easy to explore the rest of Switzerland," wrote one expat living in Switzerland.

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How are healthcare services Zug?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Zug, they replied:

"Zug offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The canton of Zug has a comprehensive network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized medical care, emergency services, and preventive health care. The canton also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Zug University Hospital, which offers advanced medical care and research. Additionally, Zug has a number of private medical practices and clinics that provide a range of medical services, including general and specialized care, as well as preventive health care. Zug also has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide a variety of medications and health products. Finally, Zug has a number of health insurance providers that offer a range of health insurance plans to its residents," stated one expat who made the move to Switzerland.

What are medical services in Zug like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Zug, they replied:

"Zug offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The canton of Zug has a comprehensive network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The canton also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Zug University Hospital, which offers advanced medical care and research. Additionally, Zug has a number of private medical practices that provide a range of services, including general practice, family medicine, and specialist care. The canton also has a number of pharmacies and health centers that provide a range of services, including prescription medications, vaccinations, and health advice," wrote one expat living in Switzerland.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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