How Much Does a Housekeeper Cost in Zurich in 2026?
An overview of housekeeper costs in Zurich in 2026 — hourly rates, agency pricing, full-time ranges and employer on-costs.
Quick answer: In Zurich, the hourly rate for a direct hire is usually around CHF 28–32, while agencies often charge CHF 40–50 including insurance and admin. Employer on-costs and a holiday supplement come on top.
Hourly rate for direct hire
Experienced housekeepers with good references cost around CHF 28–32 gross per hour in the Zurich area. The legal floor is the NAV minimum wage (from 2026 around CHF 20.35 for unskilled staff).
Agency or platform
Placement and cleaning agencies often charge CHF 40–50 per hour. This includes insurance, administration and VAT — in exchange for less effort on your side.
Don't forget employer on-costs
Employer share of social security
Compulsory accident insurance
Holiday supplement (at least around 8.33% for four weeks' holiday)
Full-time or live-in
For a full-time housekeeper, the market value is often around CHF 4,000–6,000 gross per month. If you provide free board and lodging, the in-kind wage is added on top.
All figures are indicative and can change; the NAV minimum wage and the current AHV contribution rates are decisive.
👉 Compare housekeepers in Zurich here.
Conclusion
In Zurich, budget around CHF 28–32 per hour for a direct hire — plus employer on-costs and a holiday supplement. Agencies cost more but take care of administration and insurance.
Official sources
Rules and figures can change — check the official sources:
See also
Hire legally — registration, insurance and contract.
Live-in vs live-out — which suits your home.
Find and choose a housekeeper — where to look and how to vet.
Hiring an international housekeeper — what families should know.
See also
FAQ
What does a housekeeper cost per hour in Zurich?
For a direct hire, usually around CHF 28–32 gross per hour; through agencies often CHF 40–50 including insurance and admin. The legal floor is the NAV minimum wage.
What on-costs are there?
The employer share of social security, compulsory accident insurance, and a holiday supplement of at least around 8.33% for four weeks' holiday.
What does a full-time housekeeper cost per month?
The market value is often around CHF 4,000–6,000 gross per month. If you provide free board and lodging, the in-kind wage is added on top.
Is an agency more expensive than a direct hire?
Usually yes, because insurance, administration and VAT are included. In exchange, the agency handles payroll and insurance for you.
Should I pay hourly, by the day or monthly?
By the hour for one-off tasks or a few hours a week; a monthly salary when it's full-time. Choose based on the regular workload.
How often should cleaning be done?
Weekly is the most common; every two weeks or monthly for a smaller flat, with a deep clean every few months.