A New Beginning: Navigating Housing Challenges in Geneva

Arriving at Webster Geneva, excitement and anticipation fill the air. Amidst Geneva’s beauty, your first challenge awaits: Navigating the competitive housing market to find your new home.

The Geneva Housing Market: A Tough Nut to Crack

Geneva, with its stunning views of the Alps and Lake Leman, is a desirable place to live — not just for students, but for everyone.

However, this desirability comes with a price. The city is currently facing an acute housing shortage, with a home vacancy rate of just .42%. For context, this means that out of every 1,000 homes, only about four are available at any given time. Such a tight market has driven rents sky high, making it incredibly challenging, especially for students and those with limited incomes, to find affordable accommodation.

In a market where demand far outstrips supply, those searching for housing often find themselves waiting years for a suitable place. The scarcity of homes not only affects where people live, but also how they live, with some forced to spend as much as a third of their income on rent and utilities, significantly impacting their quality of life.

As a new student arriving in this environment, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of finding a place to live. The fear of not securing accommodation in time, or being priced out of the market, can cast a shadow over the excitement of starting university. But don’t let this discourage you. Despite the challenges, your transition to life in Geneva can be smooth and enjoyable, because at Webster University, we’ve got you covered. 

Housing options at Webster Geneva: Your Home Away from Home 

At Webster Geneva, we understand the pressures of the housing market, especially for students coming to the city for the first time. That’s why we’ve worked hard to provide a range of housing options that cater to different needs, ensuring that every student finds a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place to call home. 
  
The Living and Learning Center (LLC) on campus is the perfect starting point for first-year students. Located in the serene lakeside commune of Bellevue, the LLC offers 49 beds in a variety of two-bedroom units and single studios. Here, you can immerse yourself in campus life, with easy access to university resources, beautiful views and a supportive community. With on-campus security, two Assistant Resident Coordinators (ARCs) on site, and a host of amenities, you’ll have everything you need to settle into your new life without the stress of searching for off-campus housing. 

For those who prefer the vibrancy of city life, our new Les Savoises residence in the Plainpalais district offers 40 beds in a fully renovated building that blends historical charm with modern comforts. Located at Rue des Savoises 7, this residence is exclusively for Webster students and features a lounge, an indoor courtyard, and secure building access. With an ARC living on site, you’ll always have a point of contact for support, ensuring that your transition to Geneva is as smooth as possible. 

Les Berges du Rhône, situated in the Jonction area, provides a unique urban living experience with 48 beds across two floors dedicated to Webster students. With single studios and shared suites, Les Berges is ideal for transfer students, master’s students, and those studying abroad. The residence offers 24/7 external security and is well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to explore the city while staying closely tied to the Webster community. 

Finally, for those seeking a quieter, more intimate setting, Riant-Parc in the Balexert area offers eight single bedrooms in a cozy, close-knit environment. With a common kitchen, dining room, and lounge, Riant-Parc is perfect for students who prefer a smaller community but still want to enjoy the benefits of living in Geneva. An ARC lives on site, providing additional support and ensuring that everything runs smoothly. 

Moving Forward with Confidence 

While Geneva’s housing market presents challenges, especially for newcomers, Webster Geneva is committed to ensuring that housing is one less thing you need to worry about. By offering a range of well-maintained, secure and conveniently located residences, we make it easier for you to focus on what truly matters: your studies, your personal growth and making the most of your time in this incredible city. 
  
So when students step into this new chapter of their life, know that while the road ahead may have its challenges, you won’t be walking it alone. Webster Geneva Campus has a growing number of options to support you at every step of the way. 

Learn more about Residential Life and Facilities at Webster Geneva Campus.