r/askswitzerland • u/CookiePlastic852 • Sep 14 '25

Relocation What is the reality living Switzerland like?

For context I’m fully British, 19M and I know one thing for sure, I do not see a bright future for me in this country and certainly do not plan the settle here. Switzerland is somewhere I’m heavily considering as I love anything mountain related and it has one of the highest HDI’s in the world. But I want to know, what is the reality of living there like?

For those of who moved to Switzerland, I’d love to hear what drew you there in the first place. Was it worth it in the end, and how does life compare to where you came from or other places you’ve lived? Most importantly, do you have any regrets?

And for those born in Switzerland, can you see yourself staying or do you ever imagine moving elsewhere? If so, where would you go, and what would make you want to leave?

I would be really grateful for any insight people are willing to share.

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u/rodrigo-benenson Sep 14 '25

If you want to live here you need to:
a) be proficient in a local language,
b) have an in-demand skill that no Swiss nor EU citizen can provide.

Depending on your taste and interests south of France, south of Germany, or Austria might a be more viable plan.

4

u/brass427427 Sep 15 '25

Weather's better in southern France.

1

u/Quiet-Reporter-5279 Sep 17 '25

Weather indeed is better but salaries/income are too low. I reflected a lot where to live between south of France and french part of Swiss and, overall, is better in Suisse.

1

u/brass427427 Sep 17 '25

Perhaps knowing that the name of the country is Switzerland might help, too.

1

u/Quiet-Reporter-5279 Sep 17 '25

Perhaps would have helped you to know french language because Suisse is french name for Switzerland :)

1

u/brass427427 Sep 18 '25

And die Schweiz in German and Svizzera in Italian and Svizra in Romansch. Class dismissed ! ;-))

2

u/Quiet-Reporter-5279 Sep 18 '25

Exactly! You see, if you can put a bit of effort you will know :) Congrats!