Buying real estate in Luxembourg?

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Where do expats buy in Luxembourg?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Luxembourg Property Pack

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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Luxembourg Property Pack

Luxembourg attracts thousands of international professionals and families each year, creating strong demand for residential properties across the Grand Duchy.

As of September 2025, expats primarily target neighborhoods like Belair, Limpertsberg, and Kirchberg for their premium amenities and international schools, while budget-conscious buyers increasingly look to emerging areas like Cessange and well-connected suburbs such as Strassen and Mamer.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Luxembourg, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At InvestRopa, we explore the Luxembourg real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Luxembourg City, Esch-sur-Alzette, and Differdange. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Which neighborhoods in Luxembourg are the most popular with expats right now?

The neighborhoods in Luxembourg City most popular with expats in 2025 are Belair, Limpertsberg, Kirchberg, Gasperich, and Merl.

Belair stands out as extremely popular for its premium residential atmosphere and access to top-tier international schools. The area attracts wealthy professionals and families who prioritize quality of life and educational opportunities for their children.

Limpertsberg ranks as another prestigious choice, known for its upscale character, proximity to amenities, and strong international community presence. The neighborhood offers excellent connectivity to the city center while maintaining a quieter residential feel.

Kirchberg draws EU institution employees and international professionals working in the European Quarter. This modern district provides contemporary living spaces and easy access to international schools, making it particularly appealing to diplomatic families and European civil servants.

Gasperich and the emerging Cloche d'Or area represent rapidly developing zones with modern infrastructure and international schools, attracting young professionals and growing families seeking contemporary amenities.

What are the average purchase prices per square meter in those neighborhoods?

Property prices vary significantly across Luxembourg's expat-favored neighborhoods, with premium areas commanding substantial premiums over emerging districts.

Belair represents the most expensive option, with average prices reaching €14,308-€14,489 per square meter for residential properties. This pricing reflects the area's status as Luxembourg's most prestigious neighborhood, offering top schools and luxury amenities.

Limpertsberg follows closely with prices typically ranging €13,000-€14,000 per square meter. The neighborhood's combination of prestige, excellent schools, and central location justifies these premium rates among international buyers.

Kirchberg and Gasperich/Cloche d'Or offer more moderate pricing at €11,000-€13,000 per square meter. These areas provide modern infrastructure and good international school access while remaining more accessible than the ultra-premium neighborhoods.

More affordable options include Bonnevoie (under €10,000/m²), Cessange and Beggen (€9,000-€10,000/m²), offering better value while maintaining good city access and amenities.

How do these prices compare between apartments and single-family homes?

Apartments generally command higher prices per square meter than houses in central and premium areas, though detached homes cost more in total due to their larger size.

Area Apartments (€/m²) Houses (€/m²)
Luxembourg City €11,035-€12,106 €9,000-€14,000
Belair €14,308-€14,489 Premium only (limited supply)
Gasperich/Kirchberg €11,000-€13,000 Above €12,000 (rare)
Suburbs/North €5,800-€7,400 €5,000-€7,000

In prestigious areas like Belair and Limpertsberg, apartments dominate the market due to space constraints and zoning regulations. Single-family homes in these neighborhoods are extremely rare and typically sell for premium prices when available.

The price differential reflects demand patterns, with apartments offering easier maintenance and urban convenience that appeals to international professionals, while houses provide more space for families but require higher total investment.

What is the minimum budget an expat realistically needs to buy in central Luxembourg City?

A realistic minimum budget for well-located, central property ranges €800,000-€1.2 million for a 60-80 square meter apartment.

Small flats in premium areas like Belair or Ville-Haute start around €700,000-€900,000 for basic units. These entry-level prices reflect the high demand and limited supply in central locations.

Mid-range apartments in desirable neighborhoods typically require €900,000-€1.2 million for properties offering good space, modern amenities, and prime locations. These properties represent the sweet spot for many expat buyers seeking quality without ultra-luxury pricing.

Larger family apartments or premium units in the most sought-after buildings can easily exceed €1.5-€2 million. These properties offer exceptional locations, high-end finishes, and substantial living space.

It's something we develop in our Luxembourg property pack.

Where do you find more affordable areas that still have good access to the city and jobs?

Several neighborhoods offer significantly lower purchase prices while maintaining excellent transport connections to Luxembourg City's business districts.

Bonnevoie, Beggen, Cessange, Hamm, and Pfaffenthal provide properties under €10,000 per square meter with rapid transport links to city jobs. These areas benefit from Luxembourg's excellent public transportation network, including buses, trams, and regional trains.

Northern suburbs like Strassen, Mamer, and Walferdange offer larger family properties or houses from €6,000-€8,000 per square meter. These locations provide strong rail and bus connections to the city center, with journey times typically under 30 minutes.

Bertrange represents another excellent value option, combining suburban living with easy city access via multiple transport options. The area attracts families seeking more space and better value while maintaining professional connectivity.

These areas increasingly attract both locals and newcomers looking for affordability without sacrificing access to employment centers and urban amenities.

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Which communes outside the city attract the most international buyers and why?

Strassen, Mamer, Walferdange, and Bertrange attract the highest numbers of international buyers among communes outside Luxembourg City.

Strassen appeals to expats seeking a suburban feel with excellent city connectivity via train and bus networks. The commune offers larger properties at more reasonable prices while maintaining easy access to Luxembourg City's employment centers.

Mamer stands out particularly for families due to its quality international schools and strong transportation links. The commune provides a family-friendly environment with good amenities and outdoor spaces that appeal to expats with children.

Walferdange attracts buyers looking for a balance between rural tranquility and urban access. The area offers larger homes and green spaces while remaining well-connected to the capital through public transport.

Bertrange draws international buyers with its combination of affordability, accessibility, and growing international community. The commune provides good value for money while offering modern amenities and easy commuting options.

What kinds of properties are most expats actually buying — new builds, older houses, or luxury flats?

New builds and modern apartments dominate expat property purchases, particularly in developing areas like Gasperich, Kirchberg, and Cloche d'Or.

Energy-efficient new constructions (class A/B ratings) attract environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking lower ongoing costs. These properties often feature modern amenities, smart home technology, and contemporary design that appeals to international professionals.

Luxury flats and compact, high-specification apartments remain popular with international professionals and investors across all high-demand neighborhoods. These properties offer low maintenance, security, and urban convenience that matches expat lifestyles.

Older prestige houses in Limpertsberg and Belair appeal specifically to wealthier buyers and established families seeking character properties with substantial space. These buyers typically prioritize location and prestige over modern conveniences.

Renovated properties combining historic character with modern updates represent a growing segment, particularly among expats seeking unique homes with personality while maintaining contemporary comfort standards.

How high are the notary fees, taxes, and other transaction costs when buying in Luxembourg?

Total transaction costs add approximately 10-15% to the purchase price when buying property in Luxembourg.

Notary fees typically account for 1-2% of the purchase price, covering legal documentation, title verification, and transaction completion. These fees are regulated and relatively standardized across the country.

Registration duties and transfer taxes comprise the largest component at approximately 7% of the purchase price. These government fees apply to most property transactions and cannot be avoided or reduced.

Additional costs include bank fees, property valuation, legal advice, and various administrative charges that collectively add 2-6% to the total transaction cost. These variable expenses depend on the complexity of the purchase and chosen service providers.

It's something we develop in our Luxembourg property pack.

What financing options are available to expats, and what percentage of a deposit do banks usually ask for?

Luxembourg banks offer mortgages to most resident foreigners at loan-to-value ratios of 75-85%, requiring down payments of 15-25%.

Interest rates as of September 2025 range between 3.2-3.8%, with rates varying based on loan duration, borrower profile, and chosen bank. Fixed-rate options provide stability for long-term financial planning.

Lending criteria have tightened for non-permanent residents, but motivated banks compete actively for well-qualified borrowers. Employment stability, income level, and existing banking relationships significantly influence approval and terms.

Most banks require proof of stable employment, typically demanding permanent contracts or substantial savings for temporary residents. Self-employed expats face additional documentation requirements but can still access financing with proper preparation.

EU citizens generally receive more favorable treatment than non-EU nationals, though qualified borrowers from any background can secure competitive financing with appropriate documentation and financial profiles.

infographics rental yields citiesLuxembourg

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Luxembourg versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

How competitive is the market right now — do properties sell quickly, and are bidding wars common?

The Luxembourg property market has cooled from its 2024 peak, with transaction volumes recovering and prices stabilizing throughout 2025.

Properties in top neighborhoods and well-priced units can still sell quickly, typically within weeks to a few months of listing. Market dynamics vary significantly by location and property type, with premium areas maintaining stronger demand.

Bidding wars are less common than during the 2021-2022 boom period, giving buyers more negotiating power in most transactions. However, exceptional properties in Belair, Limpertsberg, and high-quality new developments may still attract multiple offers.

The current market favors prepared buyers who can move quickly on suitable properties. Cash buyers or those with pre-approved financing maintain advantages in competitive situations.

Sellers have adjusted expectations from peak pricing, creating more realistic transaction environments. This shift benefits genuine buyers while filtering out speculative activity that characterized previous years.

Which schools, transport links, or lifestyle factors influence where expats choose to buy?

Proximity to international schools represents the primary factor influencing expat property choices in Luxembourg.

The European School, Vauban, and International School of Luxembourg (ISL) locations in Kirchberg, Limpertsberg, and Mamer drive significant residential demand. Parents prioritize short commutes and school catchment areas when selecting neighborhoods.

Public transport excellence, including tram, bus, and rail networks, critically influences location decisions. Luxembourg's free public transport system makes connectivity a major asset for daily commuting and lifestyle convenience.

Access to parks, shopping centers like Cloche d'Or, and cultural venues heavily influences quality of life assessments. Expats seek neighborhoods offering both urban amenities and green spaces for family activities.

Established international communities provide easier integration and social connections. Areas with existing expat populations offer familiar services, language support, and cultural events that smooth relocation transitions.

What are the expected rental yields if an expat buys in Luxembourg with the idea of renting the property out?

Gross rental yields on Luxembourg City apartments generally range from 2.5% to 3.5%, with prime areas typically delivering returns at the lower end due to high entry prices.

Premium neighborhoods like Belair and Limpertsberg typically yield 2.5-3.0% due to their expensive purchase prices, though they offer stable rental demand from high-income tenants seeking prestigious addresses.

Emerging areas and newer developments may offer slightly higher yields approaching 3.5-4.0%, though returns rarely exceed 4% given Luxembourg's expensive property market. These areas benefit from growing rental demand and more reasonable purchase prices.

Rental demand remains robust due to Luxembourg's demographic growth, limited housing supply, and continuous influx of international professionals. This stability supports consistent occupancy rates and steady rental income.

It's something we develop in our Luxembourg property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. Just Arrived Luxembourg - Living in Luxembourg City
  2. Expatica - Best Neighborhoods in Luxembourg City
  3. New Immo - Popular Neighborhoods for Families
  4. Straight Corporate - Luxembourg Cities for Expats
  5. InvestRopa - Luxembourg City Price Forecasts
  6. InvestRopa - Average House Prices Luxembourg
  7. Chronicle Luxembourg - Property Prices Q1 2025
  8. InvestRopa - Luxembourg Area Guide
  9. Elle Real Estate - Market Report 2025
  10. At School Luxembourg - Best School Locations