Complete Expat Guide to Freienbach

Lake Zurich commune in canton Schwyz with strong transport links, low taxes, and more housing supply than its neighbours.

Quick facts

  • Population: 17,200
  • Cantons: Schwyz
  • Nearest Airport: Zurich Airport (ZUR)
  • Airport Distance: 40 minutes by train
  • Average Rent1 Bedroom: CHF 1,600-2,300/month
  • Average Rent3 Bedroom: CHF 3,000-4,800/month
  • Tax Rate: 10-14% (among Switzerland's lowest)
  • Safety Rating: 9.7/10 (Extremely Safe)
  • Public Transport Rating: 8.8/10 (Very Good)
  • Language Spoken: Swiss German, High German, English
  • Average Salary: CHF 95,000-145,000
  • Unemployment Rate: 1.6%

Complete Expat Guide to Freienbach

Freienbach is the anchor commune of the Höfe region around Pfäffikon SZ and offers the best mix of low taxes, actual housing supply and lake access on Lake Zurich's south shore:

  • Low taxes: Schwyz cantonal rate with a competitive communal multiplier
  • Better supply: More new-build apartments than Wollerau or Feusisberg
  • Pfäffikon SZ hub: Financial services cluster inside the commune
  • Direct trains: To Zurich, Chur and Lucerne

Living & Housing

The commune covers Freienbach village, Pfäffikon SZ, Bäch and Wilen. Pfäffikon SZ has the newest apartment stock and best walk-to-station access. Family homes cluster in Freienbach and Bäch.

Getting Around

Pfäffikon SZ is a major interchange, InterCity trains reach Zurich HB in 25 minutes. The A3 motorway runs through the commune. Bike infrastructure along the lake is excellent.