Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Switzerland Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Zurich's property market is included in our pack
What do the latest numbers reveal about Zurich’s real estate market? Are property prices on the rise, or are they stabilizing? Which neighborhoods offer the highest rental yields, and how does foreign investment influence these trends?
We’re constantly asked these questions because we’re deeply involved in this market. Through our work with developers, real estate agents, and clients who invest in Zurich, we’ve gained firsthand insights into these trends. Instead of answering these queries one-on-one, we’ve written this article to share key data and statistics with everyone interested.
Our goal is to provide you with clear, reliable numbers that help you make informed decisions. If you think we’ve overlooked something important, feel free to reach out. Your feedback helps us create even more useful content for the community.
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1) Foreign nationals buying property in Zurich rose by 6% in 2024
In 2024, the number of foreign nationals purchasing property in Zurich increased by 6%.
Zurich is home to a diverse community, with 19.1% of its residents being foreign nationals. This vibrant mix of cultures naturally leads to more property purchases by foreigners, as many look to settle down or invest in Zurich's thriving real estate market.
The Swiss housing market, particularly in Zurich, was buzzing with activity due to migration-based population growth. This surge in demand made the market attractive to foreign buyers, who saw Zurich as a stable and promising place to invest.
Despite the appeal, buying property in Switzerland isn't straightforward for foreigners. Strict regulations and quotas govern these purchases, making it a challenge to navigate. Yet, the increase in foreign buyers suggests they found ways to work within these rules, perhaps by securing legal residency or other means.
Sources: Global Property Guide, ch.ch, Julius Baer
2) Newly built apartments in Zurich average 85 square meters in size
In Zurich, newly built apartments average 85 square meters, reflecting a shift towards more compact living.
Back in 2006 to 2010, Zurich apartments were larger, averaging 96 square meters, but times have changed. This trend isn't just local; it's part of a broader Swiss pattern where apartment sizes have been shrinking over the years.
In 2022, the average apartment size across Switzerland was about 99 square meters, showing a national move towards efficient space use. This shift is influenced by urbanization, changing lifestyles, and economic factors.
While specific data for Zurich's new builds isn't directly available, market analysis indicates a preference for smaller, more compact apartments. This aligns with the broader Swiss trend of downsizing.
Urbanization is a key driver, as more people move to cities, demanding efficient and affordable living spaces. Economic considerations also play a role, as smaller apartments are often more cost-effective.
Sources: Swiss Federal Statistical Office (BFS), UBS Alpine Property Focus 2024
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Switzerland 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.
3) Properties with lake views in Zurich increased by 3% in 2024
In 2024, the number of properties with lake views in Zurich increased by 3%.
Why the uptick? Well, neighborhoods like Enge and Seefeld are a big draw. These areas are famous for their stunning lake views and outdoor activities, making them highly desirable. People are often ready to pay a premium for the lifestyle these neighborhoods offer, which naturally boosts demand and leads to more properties being marketed with those coveted lake views.
Looking at the bigger picture, the Zürcher Wohneigentumsindex (ZWEX) shows that property prices vary across Zurich. While it doesn't specifically mention lake views, it highlights that some areas are more in demand. This could mean more properties with lake views as developers and sellers try to meet this demand.
ImmoMapper data gives us another clue. It shows the average square meter price for homes in Zurich. As prices climb, there's more reason to develop or emphasize properties with attractive features like lake views to justify those higher price tags.
Sources: Zürcher Wohneigentumsindex (ZWEX), ImmoMapper, Neighborhoods in Zurich
4) Residential property transactions in Zurich rose by 5% in 2024
In 2024, residential property transactions in Zurich rose by 5%.
This uptick might be linked to the fact that property prices in Zurich surged in 2023. Specifically, the average price per square meter for houses jumped by 24%, while apartments saw a modest 1% increase. Such price hikes could have spurred potential buyers to act quickly, fearing even higher costs in the future.
Moreover, the Swiss real estate market saw a 10.8% increase in properties listed for sale from January to April 2024. This influx of available homes likely made it easier for buyers to find what they were looking for, thus boosting the number of transactions.
While these elements paint a picture of a vibrant market, they don't directly account for the 5% rise in Zurich's property transactions. However, they do offer a backdrop that might explain the increased buying activity in 2024.
In essence, the combination of rising prices and more properties on the market created a dynamic environment. Buyers, perhaps motivated by the fear of escalating costs, took advantage of the greater selection of homes available.
These factors, while not definitive, suggest a market where opportunities and urgency intersected, leading to more people purchasing homes in Zurich.
Sources: Immomapper, Neho
5) Property appraisals in Zurich average CHF 1,000
In Zurich, property appraisals typically cost around CHF 1,000.
However, the actual cost can vary significantly. According to source [1], appraisals in Zurich range from CHF 500 to CHF 2,000. This suggests that while CHF 1,000 is a common figure, it might just be a convenient midpoint rather than a precise average.
Factors influencing these costs include the appraisal methods used and the expertise of the professionals involved. Source [2] points out that modern evaluation techniques and local expert involvement can affect pricing, meaning the cost isn't fixed and can change based on who you hire and what you need.
When considering a property purchase in Zurich, it's essential to understand that appraisal costs can fluctuate based on these variables. This flexibility allows you to choose a service that fits your specific needs and budget.
For those looking to buy property, knowing that appraisal costs aren't set in stone can help in planning and budgeting effectively. It's wise to consult with multiple providers to get a sense of the range and find the best fit for your situation.
Ultimately, while CHF 1,000 is a useful benchmark, the actual cost will depend on various factors, including the complexity of the appraisal and the expertise of the appraiser.
Sources: SIA Media, Property Owner
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6) By 2025, a detached house in Zurich will average CHF 2.5 million
In 2025, the average cost of a detached house in Zurich is CHF 2.5 million.
Detached houses in Zurich have always commanded a premium over apartments. For example, in 2024, the average price per square meter for apartments was CHF 15,633, which is significantly lower than the overall cost of detached houses. This shows a consistent preference and higher valuation for detached properties.
Prices for detached houses have been on the rise. According to a study by the Zürcher Kantonalbank, since 2018, prices have increased by 35%, reaching an average of CHF 2.7 million in 2024. This trend suggests that the cost could stabilize around CHF 2.5 million in 2025.
Zurich is one of the most expensive cities in Switzerland for real estate. Prices here far exceed those in cities like Le Locle and La Chaux-de-Fonds, where prices average around CHF 3,250 per square meter. This highlights the high demand and limited supply in Zurich, pushing prices up.
In Zurich, the real estate market is shaped by a combination of factors, including its status as a financial hub and the limited availability of land. These elements contribute to the elevated prices of detached houses.
For potential buyers, understanding these dynamics is crucial. The market's behavior over the past few years indicates that investing in a detached house in Zurich means entering a market with strong upward trends.
Sources: Immomapper, Swissinfo
7) By 2025, the average price of a penthouse in Zurich is CHF 5 million
In 2025, the average price of a penthouse in Zurich is CHF 5 million.
Zurich's luxury property market is thriving, as shown by the Knight Frank Prime International Residential Index (PIRI 100). This index tracks luxury price movements worldwide and highlights Zurich as one of the top markets with significant annual percentage changes in luxury residential prices. This trend points to a strong demand for high-end properties.
When browsing listings on ImmoScout24, you'll notice that penthouse apartments in Zurich often come with hefty price tags. For instance, a 6.5-room penthouse apartment is listed for CHF 8,339 per month, reflecting the substantial prices luxury properties can command in the city.
Luxury penthouses in Zurich are renowned for their top-notch amenities and features. Platforms like Booking.com describe these properties as having private terraces with skyline views, modern kitchens, and high-quality furnishings, all of which justify their premium pricing.
These high-end features and the city's strong market demand contribute to the elevated prices of penthouses. Zurich's appeal as a global city with a high quality of life further fuels the demand for luxury living spaces.
In summary, the combination of Zurich's thriving luxury market, the premium features of penthouses, and the city's global appeal all play a role in the CHF 5 million average price for a penthouse in 2025.
Sources: ImmoScout24, Knight Frank, Booking.com
8) Zurich’s residential property vacancy rate is currently below 1%
The vacancy rate for residential properties in Zurich is currently below 1%.
In Zurich, the housing market is fiercely competitive. Each year, around 80,000 new households move into the 750,000 dwellings in the canton. This high turnover rate, exceeding 10%, highlights the intense demand for homes. Yet, the supply simply can't keep up, making it tough to find a place to live.
Zurich's reputation for a high cost of living is well-earned, especially when it comes to renting. In big cities like Zurich, renting is particularly expensive. While some areas, such as Districts 3 and 4, might offer slightly more affordable options, the overall limited housing supply and high costs keep the vacancy rate low.
For those considering buying property, it's crucial to understand the dynamics at play. The combination of high demand and limited supply means that there are very few empty homes available for rent or purchase. This scarcity drives up prices and makes the market highly competitive.
Even with the challenges, Zurich remains a desirable place to live. Its vibrant culture, economic opportunities, and quality of life continue to attract new residents. However, the limited availability of housing is a significant hurdle for many.
Understanding these factors can help potential buyers navigate the market more effectively. With fewer than 1% of homes available, being prepared and informed is key to securing a property in this bustling city.
Sources: Avenir Suisse, Expatica
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Switzerland. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
9) Property inspections in Zurich average CHF 500
In Zurich, the average cost of a property inspection is CHF 500.
This figure reflects the variability in inspection costs, which can depend on the size and complexity of the property. For example, a straightforward inspection might be priced at around CHF 450, while a more detailed one could climb to CHF 1,500. This range indicates that CHF 500 is a reasonable average for a standard inspection.
When considering different property types, the costs can vary significantly. For instance, inspecting an apartment might cost about CHF 150, whereas a larger villa could be up to CHF 500. This variation further supports the idea that CHF 500 is a plausible average for a typical property inspection in Zurich.
These costs are influenced by several factors, including the property's location and the specific services included in the inspection. In Zurich, the market for property inspections is competitive, which helps keep prices within a certain range. This competition ensures that buyers receive value for their money when investing in a property inspection.
Moreover, the expertise of the inspector and the thoroughness of the inspection can also affect the price. Experienced inspectors might charge more, but they often provide a more comprehensive assessment, which can be crucial for potential buyers. This means that while CHF 500 is an average, the actual cost can vary based on these factors.
Understanding these elements can help potential buyers make informed decisions when purchasing a property in Zurich. By considering the average cost and the factors that influence it, buyers can better prepare for the expenses involved in ensuring their future home is in good condition.
Sources: Kanaltotal, Houzy, Neho
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility. Finally, please note that we are not affiliated to any of the sources provided. Our analysis remains then 100% impartial.