A study by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW) reveals that, despite a culture of saving, many Swiss people are not financially prepared for a loss of income. Almost 15 percent have no financial reserves at all.
Almost half of the population in Switzerland can only maintain their current standard of living for three months or less in the event of a loss of income, according to a study published by the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW).
According to the survey, 83 percent of respondents manage to save money at least occasionally, while 43 percent do so regularly. However, saving does not necessarily mean financial security, Watson reports.
About 15 percent of respondents have no financial reserves, while 30 percent can cover their expenses for only one to three months without income. On the other hand, almost a quarter have enough savings to cope with more than a year without income.
Even high incomes do not guarantee security
The lack of financial reserves does not only affect low-income families. Even among people with a monthly household income of at least 10 Swiss francs, approximately one in four has enough reserves for only three months or less, reports the Telegraph.
“Regular saving does not necessarily mean that a family is adequately prepared for a loss of income,” said ZHAW expert Selina Lehner.
One in four people has borrowed money
Financial pressure is also reflected in everyday life. Almost one in four respondents has needed to borrow money in the past year.
Meanwhile, 29 percent have had difficulty paying their tax bills on time, at least once in the last five years.
These difficulties also affect satisfaction with the financial situation. Respondents rate it at 5.6 points out of a possible 10. In comparison, overall satisfaction with life comes in at 7.2 points.
Fixed costs, the main financial concern
For 22 percent of participants, the biggest financial concern is rising fixed costs. In second place is the fear of insufficient retirement savings, at 12 percent, while 11 percent worry that they will not be able to realize their wishes and plans in the future.
The study was conducted through an online survey in June 2026, with a total of 963 people aged 18 to 79 participating.