Cost Comparison 2025

Buenos AiresvsGeneva

Argentina
Switzerland

Overall

💰

+175.0%

Buenos Aires is 175.0%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+300.0%

Housing is 300.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

+242.9%

Restaurants 242.9% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+202.6%

Food shopping 202.6% more

Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Geneva, Switzerland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Geneva by approximately 175.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Buenos Aires are lower than in Geneva by 75%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Geneva is approximately CHF 3,000.

Dining out in Buenos Aires offers significant savings compared to Geneva. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus CHF 25 in Geneva.

Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to CHF 80 in Geneva.

Purchasing power in Geneva is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Buenos Aires.

Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 67%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Geneva, the same lifestyle would cost around CHF 798. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus CHF 2,794 in Geneva. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Geneva, Switzerland

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
ARS 400,000
CHF 3,000
1BR Outside Center
ARS 300,000
CHF 2,200
3BR City Center
ARS 800,000
CHF 5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
ARS 4,000
CHF 25
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
ARS 20,000
CHF 120
Cappuccino
ARS 1,200
CHF 5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
ARS 1,500
CHF 8

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
ARS 500
CHF 2
Bread (500g)
ARS 600
CHF 3
Eggs (12)
ARS 1,000
CHF 6
Cheese (1kg)
ARS 5,000
CHF 25

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
ARS 50
CHF 3
Monthly Pass
ARS 2,500
CHF 80
Taxi Start
ARS 600
CHF 7
Gasoline (1L)
ARS 400
CHF 2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
ARS 15,000
CHF 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
ARS 6,000
CHF 60
Mobile Minute
ARS 10
CHF 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Geneva, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Geneva to Buenos Aires requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Buenos Aires

Cost of Living Index40
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index30

Geneva

Cost of Living Index110
Rent Index100
Purchasing Power Index125

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Geneva?

Yes, Buenos Aires is approximately 175.0% more expensive than Geneva overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Geneva?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.8x of your Geneva salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Geneva, you'd need about $137,500 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Geneva?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 75%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Geneva offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Geneva provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Geneva for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Geneva?

In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. In Geneva, these figures are CHF 2,998 for singles and CHF 6,794 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Geneva in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Geneva to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers