Rewire Abroad Logo

Olten, Switzerland
Capital City

Follows Switzerland Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,213
Retiree Score
69.0
Safety Index
—
Healthcare
16 facilities

Olten, Switzerland is a compact, practical town with a mix of industrial and residential zones. Nearly half the area is forested, giving it a green, quiet feel despite its industrial roots. The population has been shrinking slightly, and over a third are foreign nationals, so expats in Olten won’t feel out of place.

Rent is manageable by Swiss standards, but don’t expect luxury. The town’s layout is efficient, with transportation infrastructure taking up nearly 10% of the area. Daily life here is straightforward, but the industrial vibe means it’s not the most picturesque spot. Olten works best for those who value affordability and simplicity over charm or excitement.

Can I afford Olten?

$

Olten

You could save

787/mo

Savings Rate26%

Monthly Costs

Rent $661
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,552

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
26/100
Retiree Score
(i)
69/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Switzerland Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
—
Safety
16
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$4
Eggs (12) $9
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$13

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$36
Meal (Mid-range) $140
Cappuccino $7
Water (0.33L) *$5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $267
Mobile Plan (mo) $35
Gym (mo) *$85
Cinema Ticket $19

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $441
1BR Outside (mo) *$667
3BR Center (mo) $831
3BR Outside (mo) *$1,166

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Zentrum, Olten Süd
Best For
rail commuters, logistics professionals

Expat Life Notes

The major rail hub of Switzerland. While industrial, it is a convenient home for commuters.

Pros

  • ✓ Incredible rail links
  • ✓ High salaries
  • ✓ Safe

Cons

  • ✗ Industrial look
  • ✗ Boring social scene
  • ✗ Expensive

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
—
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
—

Also Consider

Pfaffikon, SwitzerlandUzwil, SwitzerlandAttractiveness Score: 71.6Osasco, BrazilLiving in Osasco, Brazil: A high-GDP business hub with São Paulo crowding at lower costs. Best for Portuguese-speaking remote workers who prioritize affordabiliVila Guilherme, BrazilLiving in Vila Guilherme, Brazil offers practical logistics access near São Paulo’s airport. Ideal for expats prioritizing affordability and transport over char

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Olten

Click any question to expand the answer.

Olten has a population of approximately 18,362 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $2,755 per month in Olten, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1102/month.

The nearest airport to Olten is BSL, approximately 40km away.

Olten is generally safe, with a shrinking population and a significant foreign national presence, making it welcoming for expats.

Olten is ideal for expats seeking a quiet, affordable Swiss town with a practical, no-frills lifestyle.

Share This Guide