What’s the catch?

Hi all. I’m currently working in Zurich and my company keeps laying people off so I must come up with a plan B.

I want to get a mortgage and buy a small apartment while I have my permanent contract and I see that the prices in the French speaking area are very affordable. Also, the nature over there is very beautiful.

I also want to do a PhD as soon as I get laid off so I am considering moving to wherever I get accepted for a PhD program so moving West would be an option.

But what’s the catch? Are taxes much higher over there? I don’t speak French but a PhD program would be fully in English so I would start learning French in the meantime.

Any insights welcome!