WG (Wohngemeinschaft / colocation) is the most common housing model for students, exchange workers and young professionals in Zurich. Rooms turn over every week and the casting culture is unique.
Where to look
- aptari: browse the whole market in one feed and filter for the WG tag
- WG-Zimmer.ch and WGzimmer.ch: dedicated WG boards, DE and EN
- Facebook groups: Zurich Flatmates, Zurich International (60,000+ members)
- ETH WoKo for students (see student rental)
The casting culture
WGs hold castings: 5-15 candidates visit, meet current flatmates, talk for 30-60 minutes. The WG picks on chemistry, not paperwork.
Your one-page WG profile
Name, age, profession/study, where you're from, daily schedule, cleaning/cooking habits, pets, smoking, languages, move-in date and duration, a selfie.
Rent and legal status
- Room rent CHF 600 to 1,100 all-in (rent + utilities + internet)
- Sublease: the main tenant holds the master lease. Check they have the landlord's written consent before you pay · without it, the landlord can end the lease and you lose the room (see can I sublet)
After move-in
Register at the Einwohnerkontrolle (you need an Aufenthaltsbescheinigung from the main tenant or landlord).
Best WG neighbourhoods
Kreis 4, 5, 6, 7, Wipkingen, Wiedikon, Affoltern, Oerlikon.