Exploring Affordable Housing Options in Switzerland

A recent study by Wüest Partner examines the varying affordability of housing across Switzerland. As concerns grow about the decreasing affordability of mortgages in the country, the report provides insights into areas where housing remains financially accessible and where challenges persist.

Challenges in Affordability:

The analysis shows that the average cost of a single-family house in Switzerland is around 1.13 million Swiss francs. This figure appears even more daunting when compared to the average household income, with only about 20 percent of Swiss households currently able to afford homeownership.

Disparities Across Regions:

Digging deeper into specific Swiss regions, significant discrepancies in housing affordability become evident. For example, in Canton Zug, the average house price rises to 2.55 million francs, making homeownership achievable for less than 5 percent of households with dual incomes. Similarly high prices are found in regions like Geneva, Schwyz, Basel-Stadt, Zurich, Nidwalden, and Vaud, where over 95 percent of local households struggle to afford homeownership.

Affordable Alternatives:

Despite these challenges, there are pockets of affordability, particularly in Jura and Glarus. In Jura, single-family homes have an average price of 630,000 francs, enabling homeownership for approximately 68 percent of working couples. Glarus also offers a viable option, with homes averaging 740,000 francs and accessible to over half of households.

Regional Highlights:

Interestingly, the district of Cologny in Geneva stands out for having the highest-priced single-family homes in Switzerland, averaging 4.294 million francs in 2024. In contrast, the town of Beurnevésin in Canton Jura offers the most affordable housing, with homes priced at an average of 362,000 francs, presenting a stark difference from the high prices elsewhere.

Cheapest and Most Expensive Places to Buy Homes in Switzerland:

Here are the most expensive places to buy a house in Switzerland:

Cologny, Geneva (4,294 million francs)
Kilchberg, Zurich (3,301 million francs)
Küsnacht, Zurich (3,263 million francs)
Vandœuvres, Geneva (3,243 million francs)
Rüschlikon, Zurich (3,090 million francs)
Herrliberg, Zurich (3,069 million francs)
Silvaplana, Graubünden (3,006 million francs)
Zumikon, Zurich (2,944 million francs)
Zollikon, Zurich (2,902 million francs)
Walchwil, Zug (2,877 million francs)

On the other hand, here are the cheapest places to buy property in Switzerland:

Beurnevésin, Jura (362,000 francs)
Fahy, Jura (371,000 francs)
Campo, Ticino (401,000 francs)
Basse-Allaine, Jura (412,000 francs)
Bosco / Gurin, Ticino (414,000 francs)
Boncourt, Jura (423,000 francs)
La Baroche, Jura (429,000 francs)
Bonfol, Jura (430,000 francs)
Cerentino, Ticino (436,000 francs)
Haute-Ajoie, Jura (436,000 francs)

While Switzerland’s housing market presents formidable challenges for prospective buyers, especially in high-priced regions, opportunities for affordable homeownership exist. By navigating regional differences and exploring more affordable options, individuals and families can still achieve their dreams of owning a home.