Zurich vs Basel-Stadt: Cost of Living
Monthly costs for a single adult, mid-range lifestyle. Updated Jun 2026.
Zurich
CHF 4’068/mo
Basel-Stadt
CHF 3’418/mo
| Cost | Zurich | Basel-Stadt | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, city center) | CHF 2’200 | CHF 1’700 | +CHF 500 |
| Health insurance | CHF 380 | CHF 410 | −CHF 30 |
| Groceries | CHF 720 | CHF 620 | +CHF 100 |
| Eating out | CHF 458 | CHF 388 | +CHF 70 |
| Transport | CHF 90 | CHF 80 | +CHF 10 |
| Utilities | CHF 220 | CHF 220 | — |
| Total / month | CHF 4’068 | CHF 3’418 | CHF 650 |