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Bern vs Zürich

Switzerland vs Switzerland · 95 km apart

Bern

Switzerland

Fr1,461 ($1,660)

single / month

Cheaper overall

Zürich

Switzerland

Fr1,952 ($2,218)

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

Expense	Bern	Zürich	Cheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	$14.70	$19.11	Bern
Three-course meal for two, mid-range	$58.80	$76.44	Bern
Cappuccino	$4.41	$5.73	Bern
Monthly groceries (single person)	$333	$433	Bern
Monthly public transport pass	$53.90	$70.07	Bern
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment	$142	$185	Bern
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)	$41.16	$53.51	Bern
Fitness club membership	$41.16	$53.51	Bern
Cinema ticket	$10.78	$14.01	Bern
One-bedroom apartment in city centre	$978	$1,357	Bern
One-bedroom apartment outside centre	$680	$944	Bern
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre	$2,040	$2,832	Bern
Total single-person budget	$1,660	$2,218	Bern
Average net salary	$6,200	$8,060

Verdict

Bern is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Bern runs about $1,660 versus $2,218 in Zürich — a difference of roughly 34%.

Salary-adjusted, Zürich leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Bern · Full cost of living in Zürich

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bern cheaper than Zürich?

Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,660 per month in Bern versus $2,218 in Zürich — about 34% less.

How far is Bern from Zürich?

The straight-line distance between Bern and Zürich is approximately 95 km (59 miles).

Which city has better salaries, Bern or Zürich?

The estimated average net salary is $6,200 in Bern and $8,060 in Zürich. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $4,540 in Bern versus $5,842 in Zürich per month.