Pros and Cons of Living in Basel

Basel is a unique city located in the north of Switzerland. It borders both France and Germany, so it feels international despite its small size. As the culture capital of Switzerland, it offers many opportunities for exploration. Let’s look at the biggest pros and cons of living in Basel.

Pros of Living in Basel

A Calm Environment

Are you looking for a calmer alternative to Zurich? If you want to live in a city but still enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, Basel could be ideal for you. Expect peace and quiet, public parks and playgrounds everywhere, and a clean environment. Car traffic is limited to residents only in some areas, so you can expect quiet, unpolluted streets.

‍

An Open Attitude

The canton of Basel is split into two parts, also called half-cantons: the compact and densely populated Basel City (Basel Stadt) and the more rural Basel Country (Basel Land). Like most big Swiss towns, Basel City is very open-minded. If you settle there, you can expect a welcoming attitude towards foreigners. Although Basel Country is more traditional, it is still a friendly place for expats to live. In fact, around 30% of Basel Country residents are originally from a different country.

‍

Switzerland’s Culture Capital

Although Basel isn’t Switzerland’s largest town, it’s a culture hub. Each year, visitors flock to the city for events like the Fasnacht (carnival), Art Basel, and the Christmas markets. Year-round, you can visit the city’s nearly 40 museums as well as the many theatres, music venues, and cinemas.

Travel to France or Germany in a Few Minutes

Basel is home to the Three Countries Corner, where Germany, France, and Switzerland meet. It is the perfect location if you like to explore other countries because you can do international day or weekend trips. Many Basel-based families regularly go shopping in Germany or France because it is more affordable.

‍

There Are Activities for Everyone

No matter your interests, you’ll find something to do in Basel. If you enjoy cultural events, you’re spoiled for choice. However, there are also diverse food venues like the Markthalle and KLARA, several open-air markets, and a range of independent shops. And if you love to spend time outside, you can buy or rent a Wickelfisch (waterproof bag) and float down the river Rhine or use the many parks and sports facilities dotted around the city.

Cons of Living in Basel

It’s Smaller than Zurich or Geneva

Although there’s quite a lot going on in Basel, it’s a small town with just under 180,000 inhabitants. The entire city can be seen in a day, and there are fewer events and venues than in Zurich. If you’re looking for excitement, you might have to spend some of your weekends travelling to nearby Swiss cities. Luckily, Zurich, Bern, and Lucerne are all about an hour away, so they are accessible to Basel residents.

‍

The Alps Are Far Away

One of the perks of living in Switzerland is that you can go skiing and hiking in some of the most spectacular mountains in the world. Unfortunately, Basel is two hours away from most alpine destinations. Although you can do a day or weekend trip to popular ski destinations like Grindelwald and Wengen, you’ll have to spend at least four to six hours on public transport or in a car.

‍

High Taxes

In Switzerland, you pay federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes. Therefore, your tax burden can vary greatly depending on where you live. In 2022, Basel Land had the second-highest tax rate in the country, and Basel City came in fifth place. If you have a high income and are worried about paying too much tax, consider moving to a neighbouring canton. Aargau and Solothurn both rank significantly lower, and some towns like Olten in Aargau are less than 30 minutes away from Basel by train.

‍

Is Basel a Good Place to Live?

Basel is a great option for anyone looking for a friendly and quiet place to live in Switzerland. Although there are both pros and cons of living in Basel, you can expect a high quality of life. Submit your CV to us at Rigby AG to find out about new jobs in Basel and other Swiss cities. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for monthly news about living in Switzerland.