Build a relocation budget using actual local premiums, treatment costs and retroactive payments.
A premium is only one part of the budget
There is no single Swiss price that gives a reliable personal quote. Basic premiums depend on insurer, year, premium region, age group, deductible, model and accident cover. They are not calculated as a percentage of salary. A family needs a separate policy and premium for each member. Children, young adults aged 19–25 and older adults have different premium categories.
Start with the municipality you expect to live in. Compare the same profile across insurers and distinguish monthly from annual prices. A comparison for an adult without accident cover does not describe the cost for a student working only a few hours, a child or someone needing accident cover.
Budget for treatment and the first invoices
Your annual cash budget is twelve monthly premiums plus expected cost sharing and expenses outside the basic benefits. Under ordinary rules, the adult deductible is followed by 10% co-payment up to CHF 700 annually. Hospital contributions and some medicine rules are additional considerations. A high deductible lowers premiums but requires a larger reserve; it does not mean the insurer pays every bill immediately.
Timely enrolment normally brings retroactive premiums from the insurance start date. Set aside money from arrival even before the first invoice arrives. For a move late in the year, ask about invoices for the partial year and remember that the deductible applies by calendar year, with a fresh period starting in January.
Comparing locations fairly
If you are considering Zürich, Basel, Bern or Zug, keep age, deductible and accident cover identical when comparing. The cheapest available offer can be from a different insurer or care model in each place, so this is a location budget comparison rather than a promise about one particular product. Check local provider availability before selecting a restricted model.
Use the detailed K-Check comparison for your final address. Check cantonal premium reduction eligibility separately: a low income may qualify for help, but applications, assessment periods and deadlines vary by canton.
Frequently asked questions
Is an advertised average my likely premium?
No. Get a quote for your location and profile, and verify the year and model.
Are low-income premiums automatically lower?
No. Premium reduction is a separate cantonal process.
Related guides
- Deductible vs. franchise: understanding Swiss healthcare costs
- Health insurance for families moving to Switzerland
- How to choose health insurance before moving to Switzerland
Detailed resident guides
Official sources
Information checked: 9 October 2026