Lugano, located in the southern Swiss canton of Ticino, is known for its combination of Alpine beauty, Italian charm, and financial prestige. It stands out as one of the most attractive real estate markets in Switzerland for both domestic and international buyers.
With demand consistently high, Lugano appeals to:
- Swiss professionals seeking lakeside living;
- International investors from Germany, Italy, France, and the Middle East;
- Retirees looking for a scenic second home.
Current Property Prices in Lugano (in euros)
Lugano is among the most expensive property markets in Switzerland outside of Zurich and Geneva. Prices range from €8,000 to €13,000 per m², with luxury areas reaching €18,000/m².
Property Price Table
| Property Type | Size (m²) | Price Range (€) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-room apartment | 50–60 | €500,000 – €700,000 | City center, modern finishes |
| 3-room apartment with lake view | 70–90 | €750,000 – €1,200,000 | Scenic lake views |
| Luxury apartments | 100–150 | from €1,500,000 | Paradiso, Collina d’Oro |
| Lakefront villa | 200+ | €3,000,000 – €15,000,000 | First-line waterfront |
| Development plot (buildable land) | 600–1000 | €800,000 – €1,500,000 | Near lake or hillside |
| Business-class apartment (monthly rent) | 80–120 | €3,000 – €5,500 | City center, new development |
Market Dynamics and Recent Trends
Between 2018 and 2023, property prices in Lugano increased by 3–5% annually. The post-pandemic era accelerated demand for locations offering clean air, scenic nature, and lower density.
Since 2022, price growth has slowed slightly due to:
- Higher mortgage rates following national interest rate increases
- Tighter regulations for foreign buyers
- Construction cost inflation (materials, logistics, permits)
Still, premium properties, especially those with lake views or high energy standards, continue to perform strongly in terms of both demand and price.
Most In-Demand Property Types
Lakeview Apartments
Highly sought after by international buyers, especially retirees and second-home seekers.
Energy-Efficient Modern Homes
Preferred by Swiss residents—especially those certified with Minergie for sustainability.
Historic Villas
Located in upscale districts, popular with high-net-worth buyers from the EU and Middle East.
Income-Producing Buildings
Multi-unit rental properties are gaining traction as rental demand and yields rise.
Swiss Housing Trends Affecting Lugano
Lugano’s real estate market reflects nationwide shifts:
- Sustainable construction: solar panels, green materials, and energy-efficient systems are standard in new builds.
- Surging rental interest: rising mortgage rates are turning many potential buyers into long-term renters.
- Limited new developments: land-use restrictions slow new supply, increasing the value of existing properties.
- Digital property transactions: more buyers, especially international ones, complete purchases remotely.
Forecast for 2025
Analysts expect the following in 2025:
- 2–3% price growth in the premium and lakefront segments
- Rising rental prices due to demand shift from buyers to renters
- More focus on energy efficiency and sustainability in new builds
- Steady international demand, particularly for scenic and secure properties
Conclusion
The Lugano property market in 2025 offers:
Price stability and asset security
Strong demand for luxury and lakeview properties
Limited but high-quality supply
Excellent potential for long-term investment
Lugano stands out as a prime destination for real estate buyers who value:
- Capital preservation
- Scenic and peaceful living
- High-quality infrastructure
- Swiss-level stability and safety
Whether for personal use or as a strategic asset, Lugano remains one of Switzerland’s most appealing cities to buy property in the current real estate landscape.
