A sailboat on a calm body of water with a town on a hillside and snow-capped mountains in the background.

Apartment Search & How We Work

SwissNest Relocation provides apartment search and relocation support for expats and families moving to Zurich.

Our pricing is simple and transparent: Instead of large relocation packages, clients only pay for the services they actually use.

This approach works especially well for professionals relocating independently without company relocation support.

Start Your Apartment Search

Our Apartment Search Process

Finding an apartment in Zurich requires preparation and quick reactions when suitable listings appear. Many apartments receive dozens of application within days. SwissNest Relocation supports you throughout the process.

  • We review your search criteria including:

    • budget

    • preferred neighbourhoods

    • commuting requirements

    • apartment size and features

    • timeline for the move

    This allows us to align expectations with the current Zurich rental market.

  • Before attending viewings we prepare your German rental application dossier, which landlords and property managers usually require. Typical documents include:

    • rental application form

    • proof of income

    • identification documents

    • residence permit if available

    • employer references

    • debt register extract

    Having the dossier ready significantly improves the chances of securing an apartment.

  • We monitor the market daily and identify suitable apartments based on your search profile. Sources include:

    • major rental portals

    • property managers

    • relocation networks

    • occasionally off-market opportunities

    Suitable listings are shared with you in a structured document where you can review and approve viewings.

  • For apartments you select we:

    • contact the listing agents

    • organize viewings

    • attend viewings in your name

    • document the apartment with photos or videos

    • submit your application

    • stay in touch with the listing agents

    Many clients secure an apartment after approximately 3–5 viewings, although this varies depending on flexibility and market availability.

  • Once your application is accepted we support with:

    • reviewing the rental contract

    • coordinating signatures

    • preparing the apartment handover

    Additional relocation support can also be arranged if needed.

Transparent Pricing

Moving to Zurich can be fast paced and competitive. Our pricing is clear and fair: no packages, no hidden fees. You only pay for the services you use.

Most clients invest CHF 3’500, depending on urgency, search complexity and level of support needed.

  • 20–30 minute call to review your situation, timeline and housing needs. We’ll explain who we are, how we work and our fees. You’ll leave with clear next steps. No obligation.

  • Includes:

    • travel and attendance

    • professional representation to landlords and agents

    • written and visual documentation of the apartment viewings

    • immediate feedback, preparation and submission of the applications

    • Negotiation and follow-up until contract signing

    • Increased chances in competitive situations

  • The success fee is only payable once you successfully sign a rental contract. There are no upfront costs. The minimum success fee is CHF 2490.

  • Flexible support depending on your needs:

    • rental contract review

    • negotiation support

    • deposit options assistance

    • apartment handover assistance

    • registration support with authorities

    • health insurance guidance

    • banking setup

    • schooling or daycare assistance

What does an apartment search typically cost?

Example single professional relocation search with SwissNest:

  • 3 viewings a CHF 99

  • 1 success fee for a studio apartment CHF 2'000/month

  • 5h a CHF 99 relocation support

Total: CHF 2'792

What would this typically involve if you searched on your own?

  • 25 to 40 hours browsing listings (in German) on platforms where everyone else is searching too

  • 3 to 5 rejected applications because application wasn’t complete

  • Hours spend translating official documents into German or from German

  • Calling property managers during Swiss business hours

  • One or more trips to Zurich for viewings, taking vacation days

  • Hotel accommodation, train tickets, flights, parking tickets or fuel for viewings

  • Stand in line for apartments with 20 applicants

  • Preparing a complete Swiss-standard application dossier in German

  • Rental contract review and negotiations

  • Coordinating with the property owners or property management company

  • Organising the handover, forgetting to report within the first two weeks additional findings after move in

We take over these tasks so you can focus on your move, your family or your new job.

Why this pricing model works

Pay-As-You-Go-Support

You only pay for results

Unlike fixed packages, our success fee ensures we are fully aligned with your outcome.

Maximum flexibility

Use only the services you need. No unnecessary costs. Only a minimum price of CHF 2490.

Higher success rate

We know how the Zurich rental market works and position your application accordingly.

Boats docked at a marina with cityscape and hills in the background.

Typical Apartment Prices in Zurich

Zurich has one of the most competitive rental markets in Europe. The combination of strong demand, limited supply and strict application requirements makes securing an apartment challenging for many newcomers.
  • The vacancy rate for rental apartments in Zurich is around 0.1%, meaning only a few hundred apartments are available across the city at any time.
  • Popular apartments often receive dozens of applications within days.
  • Landlords usually expect tenants to earn at least 3x the monthly rent.
  • A well prepared rental application dossier can significantly improve your chances.
Working with SwissNest helps you navigate the process and prepare a strong application.

Typical rent prices for apartments in Zurich (furnished and unfurnished)

  • Unfurnished

    800 – 1200 EUR per month
    (≈ 850 – 1300 CHF)

    Shared apartments are common for students, young professionals and newcomers moving to Zurich. Rooms are usually part of a 3–5 room apartment shared with other tenants.

    Furnished

    1000 – 1500 EUR per month
    (≈ 1050 – 1600 CHF)

    Furnished rooms are often short term sublets or relocation housing and usually include internet, utilities and basic furniture.

  • Unfurnished

    1800 – 2600 EUR per month
    (≈ 1900 – 2800 CHF)

    Studios in Zurich are usually between 25–40 m² and are most common in newer developments or renovated older buildings.

    Furnished

    2200 – 3200 EUR per month
    (≈ 2400 – 3400 CHF)

    Furnished studios are popular with expats relocating to Zurich before securing long term housing. They often include utilities, internet and household equipment.

  • Unfurnished

    2400 – 3200 EUR per month
    (≈ 2600 – 3400 CHF)

    1 bedroom apartments are one of the most common apartment types for individuals and couples relocating to Zurich.

    Furnished

    3000 – 4200 EUR per month
    (≈ 3200 – 4500 CHF)

    Furnished apartments usually include utilities, internet and furniture and are typically used for temporary relocation housing.

  • Unfurnished

    3200 – 4600 EUR per month
    (≈ 3400 – 4900 CHF)

    These apartments are common for couples, small families or professionals working from home.

    Furnished

    3800 – 5600 EUR per month
    (≈ 4100 – 6000 CHF)

    Fully furnished apartments of this size are frequently used by relocation clients moving to Zurich for work assignments.

  • Unfurnished

    4300 – 6200 EUR per month
    (≈ 4600 – 6600 CHF)

    Family apartments in Zurich are highly competitive and often receive many applications within a short time.

    Furnished

    5200 – 7500 EUR per month
    (≈ 5600 – 8000 CHF)

    Furnished family apartments are less common and usually located in newer developments or premium neighborhoods.

  • Unfurnished

    5500 – 10000+ EUR per month
    (≈ 6000 – 11000+ CHF)

    Most rental houses near Zurich are located outside the city center in municipalities around Lake Zurich.

    Furnished

    7000 – 12000+ EUR per month
    (≈ 7500 – 13000+ CHF)

    Furnished houses are usually executive rentals used by relocating professionals or families moving to Zurich.

5 ★ rating on Google

Trusted by professionals and families relocating to Zurich

★★★★★ “SwissNest Relocation supported us with our apartment search in Zurich and with settling in.”

They guided us through viewings, explained the local rental market and helped us feel at home more quickly. Having their support gave us peace of mind and saved us time.

— Relocation client, EU → Zurich

★★★★★ “SwissNest Relocation made our move to Switzerland much smoother.”

They helped us from finding an apartment and attending viewings on our behalf to navigating the healthcare system. The team was always available via WhatsApp to offer timely advice about the housing market and different neighborhoods.

— Family relocation with 2 kids, EU → Zurich

★★★★★ “SwissNest Relocation in Zürich supported me greatly with practical advice and personal guidance for my relocation to Switzerland.”

They explained important local expectations, gave me clarity on cultural differences and helped me feel well prepared for the next steps. Thanks to their professional and friendly support, settling in Zürich became much easier.

— Relocation client, Germany → Zurich

More reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Most clients begin the apartment search at least 2–4 months before their planned move-in date. Starting early helps:

    • monitor suitable listings

    • prepare application documents

    • react quickly when the right apartment appears

  • For most clients the timeframe is approximately 2–3 months, although this depends on flexibility regarding neighbourhoods and apartment features.

  • Many clients secure an apartment after 3–5 viewings, but some prefer to compare more options before deciding.

  • Yes. If clients are not yet in Zurich we can attend viewings, document the apartment and submit applications.

  • Most apartments in Zurich are unfurnished. However we can also include furnished options if they match your requirements.

  • Yes. We can assist with administrative steps such as registration, health insurance, banking and other relocation topics.

  • No. The initial consultation is completely free and without obligation.

  • Very competitive. Many apartments receive dozens of applications. Professional support significantly increases your chances.

  • We cannot guarantee outcomes, but we significantly improve your positioning and success probability.

Book free consultation

Booking your appointment is simple and we are ready to provide the attention, care and expertise you deserve. Let’s get started: pick a time that works for you.

Start Your Apartment Search

Tell us about your relocation plans. We'll review your message and get back to you within 48 hours.