Buying property in Switzerland as a foreigner: 2025 guide
A comprehensive guide on buying property in Switzerland as a foreigner.
Best cities to buy property in Switzerland (with prices)
Whether you're drawn to the vibrant urban life of Geneva and Zurich or prefer the charm of smaller towns like Carouge and Sion, the Swiss property market offers something for everyone. In this guide we explore the top cities and regions to buy property, highlighting current prices, tax advantages, and key factors to consider when investing in Swiss real estate.
The appeal of Switzerland's high standard of living
Switzerland has long been known for its high property prices, but did you know that buying a home could be more affordable than renting? Thanks to Switzerland’s low mortgage rates, owning property is an attractive option for many.
When looking to buy a house or apartment in Switzerland, location is key—especially when it comes to scenic views. Take, for example, the villas nestled in the vineyards between Lausanne and Nyon. These properties offer stunning views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, making them highly sought after. Naturally, such prime locations significantly affect the price.
According to property experts Wüest Partner, the average price for a detached house in Lausanne is CHF 1,500,630 (around $1.67 million USD) as of 2024. A similar trend is evident in Zurich, where detached houses near Lake Zurich come with an average price tag of CHF 1,971,470 (about $2.2 million USD). In Geneva, prices remain high, with the average detached house costing around CHF 1,632,600 (approximately $1.82 million USD).
Affordable alternatives
Not all Swiss towns carry such a heavy price tag. For instance, Le Locle and La Chaux-de-Fonds are among the most affordable places to buy property. Here, prices average around CHF 3,250 (roughly $3,600 USD) per square meter. In contrast, Zurich’s average price per square meter soars to CHF 12,250 (about $13,650 USD).
If you're searching for affordable homes with more space, Porrentruy in the canton of Jura offers great value. A 5-6 room house priced at CHF 350,000 (around $390,000 USD) in Porrentruy could cost as much as CHF 1,500,000 ($1.67 million USD) in a bustling city like Geneva. However, it's important to note that towns like Porrentruy and Le Locle may offer fewer job opportunities and amenities compared to larger cities like Geneva or Zurich.
Quality of life and alternative cities
Switzerland is renowned for its exceptionally high standard of living. With a stable social and political environment, top-quality public education, excellent services, and a low crime rate, it's no wonder so many people aspire to live here. Whether you prefer urban living or a quieter lifestyle, Switzerland offers the best of both worlds, all connected by a world-class public transport system.
Geneva and Zurich
Switzerland’s two most vibrant cities, Geneva and Zurich, boast premium property markets, but they also offer an unrivaled quality of life. In fact, both cities were ranked among the Top 10 in the Mercer International Quality of Living Ranking in 2019. If you're looking for a thriving urban lifestyle, these cities have it all—culture, career opportunities, and endless entertainment options.
However, if you’re seeking more peace and tranquility with slightly lower property prices, there are nearby alternatives that offer a balanced lifestyle.
Carouge
Just outside of Geneva, the charming town of Carouge offers a more relaxed atmosphere without straying too far from the hustle and bustle of the city. Close to Lake Geneva and the French border, Carouge features picturesque streets filled with boutiques, restaurants, and lively bars.
Carouge is also known for its innovative political system, where residents are actively involved in local decision-making—a true example of participatory democracy. If you're looking for a place to settle down that combines vibrant community life with proximity to Geneva, Carouge could be your ideal destination.
Lucerne
If you’re considering a move further from Zurich, Lucerne might be the perfect choice. Nestled between a sparkling lake and the stunning Swiss mountains, Lucerne offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and urban living.
Lucerne isn’t just about the scenery—it’s a dynamic town with a thriving economy. Despite its modern urban development, Lucerne has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage, boasting landmarks like the iconic medieval wooden bridge. If you love history and tradition mixed with contemporary living, Lucerne is a town you’ll want to call home.
Tax-friendly Swiss cities for property investment
When considering where to buy property in Switzerland, tax advantages are an important factor that can significantly influence your household expenses. Several Swiss cities are known for their favorable tax policies, making them ideal locations for property investment.
A recent study by UBS (Union of Swiss Banks) found that your choice of residence can have a substantial effect on your overall expenses. Notably, property costs in German-speaking Switzerland tend to be lower compared to Western Switzerland. While areas around Lake Geneva offer stunning views and proximity to cities like Lausanne and Geneva, they often come with higher fiscal burdens.
If you're seeking a place with more affordable property prices and favorable tax rates, the canton of Valais should be on your radar.
Sion
The capital of Valais, Sion, stands out as one of the most attractive towns in Western Switzerland for both its affordable tax rates and property prices. Sion strikes the perfect balance between the benefits of a larger city and the charm of a smaller town. Its modernization has not overshadowed its historical beauty, and the city is a hub for innovation, with several prestigious colleges located here.
Zug and Schwyz
On the German-speaking side, the cantons of Schwyz and Zug are well-known for offering some of the best tax benefits in Switzerland—particularly appealing for high-income earners.
Zug
Zug, nestled between Lucerne and Zurich, is often considered a tax haven. Situated on the shores of Lake Zug, the town boasts a blend of traditional Swiss architecture and modern infrastructure. Zug’s highly efficient public transport system and beautiful parks make it an attractive place to live. However, what truly sets Zug apart is its unique fiscal policy, which is especially favorable to wealthy individuals and multinational corporations. The canton of Zug is renowned for attracting high-net-worth individuals and global companies, especially in the commodities trading sector.
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