Zurich vs Dublin: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Zurich (Switzerland) and Dublin (Ireland) reveals a cost-of-living index of 126.7 in Zurich versus 80 in Dublin (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Dublin is 36.9% more affordable than Zurich.

Metrological Indicator Zurich (Switzerland) Dublin (Ireland)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 126.7 80
Rent Index 88.1 66.7
Groceries Index 123.9 62.1
Restaurant Price Index 121.3 76.3
Local Purchasing Power Index 120.3 93.5
1-Bed Apartment in City Center CHF 2,288 €2,028
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal CHF 31.20 €18.72
Monthly Public Transit Pass CHF 88.40 €119.60
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) CHF 260.00 €205.92
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 81.3/100 · Health 84.2/100 Safety 51.4/100 · Health 68.2/100

Is Zurich more expensive than Dublin?

Zurich has a higher overall cost-of-living index (126.7) compared to Dublin (80), representing an index differential of 46.7 points (36.9% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Zurich and Dublin?

In Zurich, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages CHF 2,288/month (Rent Index: 88.1), whereas in Dublin it averages €2,028/month (Rent Index: 66.7).

→ Zurich Full Cost Report → Dublin Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Zurich

The cost of living in Zurich, Switzerland is indexed at 126.7 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Zurich are defined by a Rent Index of 88.1. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about CHF 2,288 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Zurich, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages CHF 31.20, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around CHF 6.03. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately CHF 88.40, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging CHF 260.00 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Zurich secures a safety index rating of 81.3/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 79.1/100, healthcare standard scores 84.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 95.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: ZURICH-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Dublin

The cost of living in Dublin, Ireland is indexed at 80 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Dublin are defined by a Rent Index of 66.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €2,028 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Dublin, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €18.72, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €4.11. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €119.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €205.92 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Dublin secures a safety index rating of 51.4/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 81.2/100, healthcare standard scores 68.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 91.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: DUBLIN-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED