Considering a career with the UN or another international organization in Switzerland? This profile covers cost of living and purchasing power, the ICSC hardship classification and human development — so you know what living there really means. For pay by grade, see the Salary & Benefits tab.
This is the World Bank price-level index: a whole-economy, national average of consumer prices benchmarked against the United States as a whole (US = 100), from the International Comparison Program. It is a country-level figure — it isn't tied to a specific city or measured against New York. At about 128, everyday prices in Switzerland are roughly 128% of US levels. (World Bank, 2026.)
Blueground rents fully furnished, move-in-ready apartments by the month in Geneva — a soft landing while you settle in, before you commit to a local lease.
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The UNDP Human Development Index combines health, education and income. Switzerland is in the very high band — a useful signal of living conditions, services and schooling for staff and accompanying family. UNDP data
See what each grade earns in Geneva — post adjustment, hardship and danger pay.
Salary & Benefits by grade