My 12 Tested Tips for Saving Money in Zurich as a Lifestyle Expat

Posted on 26 June, 202620 June, 2026 by Angie Weinberger

Living as an expat in Zurich can be both exciting and expensive. When I moved from a fixed income to a fluctuating income I learned a lot of tips and tricks to be able to survive in Zurich as a lifestyle expat. I realized that many of you might struggle with your income and that you would love to have these ideas. They can also help you to be more environmentally friendly. Here are my 12 Tested Tips for Saving Money in Zurich as a Lifestyle Expat

1. Learn to Budget

Create a detailed budget to understand your income, fixed expenses, and discretionary spending. This will help you identify areas where you can reduce expenses and save money.

2. Public Transportation:

Utilize Zurich’s efficient public transportation system instead of owning a car. It’s not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. Consider purchasing a monthly or annual travel pass for additional savings.

Check out the SBB Halbtax, Halbtax Plus, and Day Passes.

https://www.sbb.ch/en/tickets-offers/tickets/day-passes.html

Halbtax Plus

3. Local Markets and Discounts:

Explore local markets for fresh produce and groceries. Look for discounts and loyalty programs that supermarkets offer to maximize your savings on regular purchases: Migros, Coop, Aldi, Lidl, and Denner have these special deals. Many supermarkets now offer reductions to avoid food waste. Check out those sections of the supermarket and buy in bulk whenever possible. You can also order specific items, such as hygiene and cleaning products, from Germany and France. Special shoutout to DENNER for supporting efforts to reduce food waste here: https://www.denner.ch/de/filialen/8032-zuerich~s1145395.

Currently testing “Too Good to Go“, not bad so far.

4. Second-Hand Shopping:

Zurich has a thriving second-hand market. Explore thrift stores and online platforms for pre-loved items, including clothing, furniture, and household goods. It’s a sustainable and budget-friendly way to shop. The Brocki is excellent for buying and selling furniture and other household items you need. Many people discard perfectly functional furniture. With a bit of creativity and TLC, you can have your apartment spruced up in no time. Check out flea markets, too.

The Tigel in Seefeld offers a wide range of items, including designer furniture.

https://tigel.ch/brockenhalle.html

Paris Turin at Forchstrasse 179 (Please mention me if you go there and ring my bell for a coffee.)

https://www.instagram.com/paristurin.ch/

5. Shared Accommodation:

Consider shared accommodation or flat-sharing to split living costs. This can significantly reduce your rent and utility expenses, allowing you to allocate more funds to savings or other priorities.

https://www.wgzimmer.ch/home.html#google_vignette

6. Health Insurance Optimization:

Research and compare health insurance plans to suit your needs and budget best. Make sure you understand the coverage and explore different options to avoid overpaying. Depending on your salary level, you might be entitled to “Prämienverbillingung”. Fill in the forms when you receive them so you don’t forget them.

https://svazurich.ch/ihr-anliegen/privatpersonen/praemienverbilligung/praemienverbilligung_2025/aktuell.html

7. Cultural and Free Events:

Take advantage of Zurich’s free or low-cost cultural events, festivals, and recreational activities. Many museums offer discounted or free entry on specific days, allowing you to enjoy the city without breaking the bank. It helps to subscribe to newsletters because you can often win free tickets to cultural events. Subscribe to NewInZurich too:

Homepage

8. Meal Preparation:

Cook at home as much as possible to save on dining expenses. Plan your meals, buy groceries in bulk, and explore budget-friendly recipes to keep your food costs under control.

9. Language Exchange:

Participate in language exchange programs to enhance your language skills and connect with new people. These programs are often offered through language schools, community centers, or online platforms, providing a cost-effective way to learn or practice a new language. Work as a language coach on the side:

https://www.xlingua.ch/

10. Financial Planning Services:

Consider seeking advice from financial planning services to optimize your investments and savings. Understanding the local economic landscape can help you make informed decisions about managing your money more efficiently.

Keren-Jo Thomas - Financial Planner for Women — Keren-Jo Thomas – Financial Planner for Women

CONTACT Keren-Jo Thomas for Financial Planning.

11. Find More Work and Get Paid Better:

Several NGOs, including HEKS Mosaiq and CARITAS, will support you in finding employment. We also recommend SINGA Switzerland, Capacity Zurich, and BevelON.

SINGA Switzerland

https://singaswitzerland.ch/

CAPACITY Zurich

https://www.capacity.swiss/

Bevel ON, Geneva

https://www.bevel.world/tomoveon

CARITAS

https://www.caritas.ch/de/angebote-und-dienstleistungen/

HEKS

https://www.heks.ch/inklusion/heks-mosaiq