Zurich to Slash Daycare Costs for Thousands of Families
Parents in Zurich are set to enjoy reduced daycare costs thanks to a significant boost in subsidies. A center-left alliance has proposed an increase of CHF 22.5 million in childcare subsidies, aiming to benefit families earning average or below-average wages in the city.
The initiative, supported by a coalition of parties including the Social Democrats, Green Party, and Center/Evangelical People’s Party, seeks to ease the financial burden on families. The income threshold for eligibility has been set at CHF 125,000, ensuring that the subsidies reach those most in need.
The plan has, however, drawn criticism from the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and Swiss People’s Party (SVP), who argue against the new income limit. Despite this, the measure is expected to significantly improve affordability for many Zurich families.
Starting January 1, 2026, families in Zurich can look forward to paying less for daycare spots, with the city's increased subsidies set to benefit thousands of families. The exact details and vote status are yet to be finalized by the Zurich city parliamentary commission.