Living in Thurgau
Discover Switzerland's northeastern paradise, where rolling orchards meet Lake Constance. Your complete guide to relocating to this charming region that combines rural tranquility with excellent connectivity.
Discovering Thurgau: Switzerland's Northeastern Paradise
Nestled between Lake Constance and the Rhine River, the canton of Thurgau offers a distinctive blend of rural charm, lakeside beauty, and small-town convenience. Often referred to as Switzerland's "apple canton" due to its abundant orchards and agricultural heritage, Thurgau provides a relaxed lifestyle with excellent connectivity to larger urban centers.
As relocation specialists with extensive experience in Thurgau, we at Prime Relocation have guided numerous international professionals and families in discovering the region's hidden gems and navigating its local particularities. This guide shares our insider knowledge to help you understand what makes Thurgau special, with particular focus on Weinfelden, Kreuzlingen, and neighboring Winterthur.
Thurgau: An Overview of Switzerland's Northeastern Gem
Character & Landscape
Agricultural landscapes with apple orchards, vineyards, and gently rolling countryside
Lake Constance
Beautiful shoreline offering recreational opportunities and stunning views
Charming Towns
Well-preserved historic centers with distinctive character and amenities
Border Influence
Proximity to Germany affecting both culture and commerce
What many newcomers appreciate most about Thurgau is its balanced pace of life. The region offers enough activity and amenities to prevent isolation while maintaining a connection to nature and agricultural traditions that many find grounding after relocating from more urban environments.
Key Regions and Communities
Thurgau offers diverse communities, each with its own character and advantages. Understanding these areas is crucial for finding your ideal home.
Weinfelden
The canton's administrative and commercial center while maintaining its small-town charm
Ideal for: Professionals seeking a balance of amenities and small-town atmosphere
Kreuzlingen
Border city sharing an urban area with the German city of Konstanz
Ideal for: Those who value cross-border advantages and lakeside living
Frauenfeld
The cantonal capital with a mix of historic charm and modern infrastructure
Ideal for: Those working in government or seeking a small city with good connections
Arbon
Historic lakeside town with industrial heritage and beautiful waterfront
Ideal for: Those seeking lakeside living with historic character
Bischofszell
Well-preserved medieval town known for its historic architecture
Ideal for: Those seeking authentic Swiss small-town living
Amriswil
Growing town with good infrastructure and family-friendly environment
Ideal for: Families seeking good infrastructure and value
Housing Market in Thurgau
Thurgau's housing market presents several advantages compared to Switzerland's major urban centers.
More Affordable
Better value compared to Zurich or St. Gallen
Diverse Housing Stock
From historic farmhouses to modern apartments
Growing Development
New construction in well-connected communities
Higher Availability
Less competitive than major Swiss cities
Comparative Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
| Property Type | Weinfelden | Kreuzlingen | Zurich (for comparison) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio apartments | CHF 700-900 | CHF 800-1,100 | CHF 1,200-1,800 |
| 1-2 bedroom apartments | CHF 1,000-1,500 | CHF 1,200-1,800 | CHF 1,800-2,800 |
| 3+ bedroom apartments | CHF 1,600-2,200 | CHF 1,800-2,500 | CHF 2,800-4,000 |
| Single-family homes | CHF 2,200-3,500 | CHF 2,500-4,000 | CHF 4,000-7,000+ |
*Prices may vary based on property age, condition, and specific location. Lakefront properties in Kreuzlingen command premium prices.
How Prime Relocation Helps
Local Market Knowledge:
We understand the nuances of each Thurgau community and can guide you to areas matching your lifestyle preferences
Property Access:
Our connections with local property owners give you access to listings before they reach public portals
Application Support:
We prepare compelling applications that highlight your strengths as a tenant
Cross-Border Expertise:
For those considering Kreuzlingen, we provide guidance on the advantages and considerations of living near the German border
Education Options in Thurgau
Families relocating to the region have several educational pathways available.
Public Schools
High-quality education with German as the primary language of instruction
Private and International Options
Several options for families seeking alternative or international education
International School Kreuzlingen
English-language education with international curriculum
SBW Haus des Lernens
Innovative educational approach with bilingual options
Bilingual Schools
Several institutions offering German-English instruction
Higher Education
Access to universities and professional training
Thurgau University of Teacher Education
Teacher training and educational research
Proximity to ZHAW Winterthur
University of Applied Sciences with diverse programs
Vocational Training Centers
Excellent apprenticeship and professional education options
Cross-Border Education Options
Families in Kreuzlingen and other border communities benefit from additional educational options in neighboring Germany:
University of Konstanz
Prestigious German university within walking distance of Kreuzlingen
German Public Schools
Some families opt for German education system across the border
Binational Programs
Collaborative educational initiatives between Swiss and German institutions
Language Advantages
Opportunity for children to become fully bilingual in Swiss and German educational contexts
Immigration and Residency
When relocating to Thurgau, you'll need to navigate specific administrative procedures.
EU/EFTA Nationals
Non-EU/EFTA Nationals
Cross-Border Considerations
G Permit (Cross-border Commuter)
For those living in Germany and working in Thurgau, the G permit allows cross-border commuting with specific requirements including returning to your main residence at least once weekly.
Tax Implications
Cross-border arrangements have significant tax implications that require careful planning. Prime Relocation can connect you with tax specialists familiar with both Swiss and German systems.
Healthcare Services
The region offers comprehensive healthcare options with excellent facilities throughout the canton.
Key Healthcare Facilities
Cantonal Hospital Münsterlingen
Main medical center providing comprehensive services
Cantonal Hospital Frauenfeld
Full-service hospital with specialized departments
Regional medical centers
Located in major towns throughout the canton
Specialist practices
Extensive network of private specialists and clinics
Health Insurance
All residents must obtain Swiss health insurance within 3 months of arrival. For expert guidance on selecting the right health insurance plan, Prime Relocation recommends our trusted partner expat-savvy.ch, who specializes in helping internationals navigate the Swiss insurance landscape.
Cross-Border Healthcare
Residents of border communities like Kreuzlingen may have options for healthcare services in Germany, potentially offering cost advantages for certain treatments.
Banking & Finance
Setting up your financial life in the region involves several key considerations.
Banking Options
Thurgauer Kantonalbank
Cantonal bank with branches throughout Thurgau
Major Swiss banks
UBS, Credit Suisse, and Raiffeisen with local branches
PostFinance
Banking services through the Swiss postal system
Regional cooperative banks
Local institutions with personalized service
Financial Considerations
- Favorable tax rates compared to some other Swiss cantons
- Currency considerations for cross-border living
- Financial advisors familiar with expatriate needs
Transportation and Mobility
Despite its rural character, Thurgau offers excellent connectivity through various transportation options.
Public Transportation
Comprehensive regional train network connecting major towns
Road Network
Well-maintained highways and local roads throughout the canton
Cycling Infrastructure
Excellent network of cycling paths on flat and gently rolling terrain
International Connections
Zurich Airport
45-60 minutes by car or train
St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport
Regional airport with limited connections
Friedrichshafen Airport (Germany)
Accessible via ferry or road
Lake ferries
Connecting Swiss and German lakeside communities
Daily Life and Integration
Successfully integrating into life in Thurgau involves understanding local customs, building social connections, and navigating practical daily matters.
Language Environment
Outdoor Recreation
Cultural Life
Culinary Experiences
Cross-Border Shopping
Many Thurgau residents take advantage of shopping opportunities in nearby Germany:
Major Shopping Centers
Just across the border with significant price advantages
Grocery Savings
Substantial discounts on food and household items
Import Allowances
Specific limits apply when returning to Switzerland
How Prime Relocation Simplifies Your Move to Thurgau
Relocating to Thurgau presents unique opportunities and challenges, particularly for international arrivals unfamiliar with the region's specific characteristics. At Prime Relocation, we specialize in making your transition to Weinfelden, Kreuzlingen, or any Thurgau community as smooth as possible.
Home Search Services
Administrative Support
Area Orientation
School Search & Education
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thurgau different from other Swiss cantons?
Thurgau offers a distinctive blend of rural charm, lakeside beauty, and small-town convenience. Known as Switzerland's 'apple canton,' it provides a relaxed lifestyle with excellent connectivity to larger urban centers. The canton features more affordable housing, beautiful agricultural landscapes, and a strong sense of community while maintaining good access to cities like Zurich and St. Gallen.
How important is German for daily life in Thurgau?
German language skills are more important in Thurgau than in international hubs like Zurich or Geneva. While English is spoken in business settings and by some locals, daily interactions, shopping, and community participation generally require at least basic German. Swiss German is the spoken dialect, though High German is understood and used for official communication. Learning German significantly enhances quality of life and integration opportunities.
What are the advantages of living in Kreuzlingen versus other Thurgau communities?
Kreuzlingen offers unique cross-border advantages through its connection with the German city of Konstanz. Residents enjoy shopping benefits with access to both Swiss and German markets, expanded cultural and entertainment options between the two cities, educational cooperation including university access in Konstanz, and healthcare options on both sides of the border. This creates a distinctive international environment while maintaining Swiss quality of life.
How does the cost of living in Thurgau compare to Zurich?
Thurgau offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to Zurich, particularly in housing. Rental prices are typically 30-40% lower, while maintaining excellent quality and often providing more space. Everyday expenses like groceries and services are also somewhat lower. This cost advantage makes Thurgau attractive for families and professionals seeking better value while maintaining access to urban centers through excellent transportation connections.
What industries offer employment opportunities in Thurgau?
Thurgau has a diverse economic landscape with strong sectors including agriculture and food processing (particularly fruit production), manufacturing and precision engineering, tourism and hospitality along Lake Constance, education and healthcare, and a growing technology sector. The canton also hosts numerous small and medium enterprises across various industries. Many residents also commute to larger employment centers like Winterthur, Zurich, or St. Gallen.
Are there international schools in Thurgau?
Thurgau offers some international education options, including the International School Kreuzlingen and bilingual programs at several institutions. While the selection is more limited than in larger Swiss cities, the quality is excellent. Additionally, the proximity to Konstanz (Germany) provides access to additional international educational options. For families seeking full international curricula, some choose to commute to international schools in nearby Zurich or St. Gallen.
Your New Beginning in Thurgau
Thurgau offers a distinctive Swiss experience that combines rural tranquility, lakeside beauty, and practical convenience. Whether you choose the central location of Weinfelden, the cross-border advantages of Kreuzlingen, or any of the charming communities throughout the canton, you'll discover a quality of life that many Swiss consider their country's best-kept secret.
At Prime Relocation, we're committed to making your transition to this special region as seamless as possible. Our team's extensive experience and local knowledge ensure that you'll avoid common pitfalls and quickly feel at home in your new surroundings.
