Cost of Living in Geneva, Switzerland
Last updated on Nov 08, 2024
Summary: The cost of living in Geneva, Switzerland is generally high. A nice one bedroom apartment in Geneva can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Geneva is usually around $30 per person.
Is the cost of living in Geneva high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Geneva, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Geneva is generally considered to be high. Prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation are all relatively expensive. Eating out in restaurants and going out for entertainment can also be costly. However, Geneva is a great place to live and offers a high quality of life," explained one expat.

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Will I save money living in Geneva?
"Living in Geneva can be more expensive than living in the United States. The cost of living in Geneva is higher than in most cities in the United States, due to the high cost of housing, transportation, and food. Additionally, taxes in Switzerland are higher than in the United States, and the Swiss Franc is more expensive than the US Dollar. Despite these higher costs, some people may still find that living in Geneva is more affordable than living in the United States, depending on their individual circumstances," said one person in Geneva.
What is the average cost of housing in Geneva?
If you are thinking about moving to Geneva, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Geneva is generally quite high. The average cost of renting an apartment in Geneva is typically around 2,000 Swiss Francs per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around 8,000 Swiss Francs per square meter," wrote a person living in Geneva.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Geneva?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Geneva can range from around 1,500 to 2,500 US Dollars per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around 2,000 to 3,500 US Dollars per month," remarked one expat in Geneva.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Geneva what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Geneva typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and other small kitchen appliances," said one expat living in Geneva.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Geneva
- Health Care in Geneva
- Discover the Best of Geneva
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Best Places to Live in Switzerland
- Real Estate in Switzerland
- Pros & Cons of Living in Switzerland
- Health Insurance in Switzerland
- Pros and Cons of Living in Switzerland 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Switzerland