HouseScoutFinding an apartment in Zurich Kreis 4 and 5
Kreis 4 (Aussersihl, around Langstrasse) and Kreis 5 (Industriequartier, better known as Zurich West) are among the most popular parts of the city: central, lively and close to Zurich main station. That popularity makes flats here go fast. This page explains what the area is like, what to prepare and how to see new listings before everyone else.
What Kreis 4 and 5 are like
Kreis 4 starts right behind Zurich main station and runs along Langstrasse, the city's best-known street for bars, restaurants and small shops. It is dense, urban and mixed: older apartment buildings sit next to new developments, and many flats are compact. Quieter side streets and the area around Bäckeranlage and Idaplatz feel more residential.
Kreis 5, Zurich West, is the former industrial district between the railway tracks and the Limmat. Old factories have become offices, studios, restaurants and modern apartment blocks around Escher-Wyss-Platz, Hardbrücke and the Prime Tower. It suits people who want new buildings and a short commute to the offices in the west of the city.
Getting around
Both districts are well connected. Zurich main station (Hauptbahnhof) is within walking distance of much of Kreis 4, and Hardbrücke station serves Zurich West with S-Bahn trains. Trams and buses run along Langstrasse, Badenerstrasse and Hardstrasse, so most addresses are a few minutes from a stop. Many residents cycle; the city centre and the lake are close.
What to expect when searching here
Demand is high from students, young professionals and people relocating for work, so popular flats often receive many enquiries on the first day. Property managers usually invite the first applicants to viewings, and a complete application file makes a real difference.
Check the street and floor as well as the flat: parts of Kreis 4 are lively at night, which some people love and others don't. Ask about noise, the laundry arrangements and whether the building has a lift. New-build flats in Zurich West often come with modern kitchens and washing machines in the flat, but also higher service charges.
If your budget is tight, consider widening your search to neighbouring Wiedikon (Kreis 3) or Altstetten (Kreis 9), which are close and well connected.
How HouseScout Radar helps
Radar watches for new flats that fit your brief and emails you the best ones within minutes of HouseScout finding them, with a price check against similar flats. You choose the areas, for example Aussersihl (Kreis 4) and Zurich West (Kreis 5), plus your budget, rooms, size and must-haves. Before paying you see how many flats matched in the last 14 days; right after paying you get the matching flats of the last 7 days.
If you can't attend a viewing yourself, a Scout Visit (CHF 100) sends a scout to the flat with photos, a video and a report the same day. If you want us to run the whole search, the Full Search starts at CHF 390.
Our three services
- Radar: every new flat that fits your brief, by email. The best within minutes, with a price check. CHF 39 for 15 days or CHF 59 for 30 days.
- Scout Visit: we view a flat for you and send photos, a video and a written report the same day. CHF 100 per property.
- Full Search: we run your whole search, from shortlist to signing. CHF 390 to start, success fee only if you sign a lease.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kreis 4 a good place to live?
It depends on what you want. Kreis 4 is central, lively and well connected, with a strong food and nightlife scene. Quieter streets exist, but check noise levels before you apply.
What is Zurich West?
Zurich West is the popular name for Kreis 5, the former industrial district around Escher-Wyss-Platz and Hardbrücke, now full of offices, restaurants and modern apartments.
How fast do flats go in Kreis 4 and 5?
Popular flats often receive many enquiries on the first day. Radar sends you the best new matches within minutes of us finding them.
How much does Radar cost?
CHF 39 for 15 days or CHF 59 for 30 days, no subscription. You can extend it before or after it ends.
What documents do I need to apply?
Usually the application form, passport or ID and residence permit, an employment contract or recent payslips, and a recent debt register extract (Betreibungsregisterauszug).