Priska describes Zürich as a very family-friendly city with various options for expats looking for the right place for them. She says while there is no particular area specified for families, many internationals tend to settle near the two main schools on either side of the lake - Kusnacht and Zumikon on the right side (known as the “gold coast”), and Kilchberg and Thawil opposite (the “silver coast”).

“While it is difficult to find homes with gardens in Zürich city, there are nearly always children's play parks and public areas close by,” says Priska. She recommends the Dolder Forest, the Zoo area, Irchel, Landesmueseum by the River Limatt, and the Uetliberg.

“Ground floor apartments will have small patios, or some apartment houses have shared garden or barbecue areas. Houses with gardens are found outside of the city and generally cost more than apartments,” she says.

The average size of a home is between 120 - 150 m2. However, large homes with 5 or 6 bedrooms are very scarce. “Space always costs more, no matter where you live and Switzerland is certainly no exception,” says Priska.

“The further you live from the city the cheaper the land becomes, and if you are looking for more outdoor space this is an option - but be careful not to live too far away as you may feel isolated from the international community.”

Typical houses in Zürich city are of a 1920s design with a very modern renovated interior. Such buildings are mostly found in districts 1 (the old town), 2 (by the lakeside, near to the international schools), and 7 (Zürichberg).

Sometimes they are under historical monumental protection and therefore have very high rents. But new and very modern apartments are also expensive. Cheaper places can be found in either the industrial district areas of 4, 5 and 12, or 15 minutes away from the main city railway station in districts 3, 9 and 10, or nearer to Zürich airport. However all are easily accessible with public transport.

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