Comparison: Buying in the city or in the countryside in Switzerland
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- Jul 6
- 4 min read
Introduction: A strategic real estate choice for your future
Buying a property is an important life decision. In Switzerland, this decision is even more complex due to regional diversity, different taxation, quality of life, and, above all, the price differences between urban and rural areas. Should you buy in the city because it's close to services and jobs, or do you prefer the Swiss countryside for its tranquility and lower prices?
In this article, we compare the pros and cons of each option, taking into account economic, practical, and quality aspects. Our goal: to help you make an informed decision based on your personal, professional, and financial priorities.
Summary
1. Real estate prices: Is the city even more expensive?
One of the first criteria when buying real estate is, of course, the price per square meter. And in this respect, the difference between a house in the countryside and an apartment in the city is often striking.
In the city:
Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne and Basel are among the most expensive cities in Europe.
The price per m² can easily exceed CHF 12,000 in certain areas.
Without a significant down payment or family support, access to real estate is difficult.
In the country:
In cantons such as Jura, Neuchâtel, Fribourg and certain rural areas of Valais, property prices are 30 to 60 percent lower than in cities.
It is possible to purchase a detached house with a garden for the price of an apartment in the city center.
2. Quality of life: peace versus comfort
The living environment has a direct impact on daily well-being. It is one of the most subjective, yet also most important, criteria.
In the city:
Direct access to a rich cultural offering and an active social life.
City stress, noise, higher air pollution.
Limited green spaces, except in certain privileged neighborhoods.
In the country:
Nature, silence, fresh air and a feeling of freedom.
Social relationships are often more locally anchored.
Possible isolation for people who are alone or without a car.
3. Taxes and duties: a significant influence
In Switzerland, property taxes vary greatly by canton. Living in the countryside can save money, but it doesn't have to.
Property and municipal taxes:
In some rural communities, taxes are lower than in urban centers.
However, in some peripheral regions, taxes are higher to compensate for the smaller population.
Additional fees:
Higher transportation costs for commuting.
More expensive maintenance of a single-family home (heating, garden, snow removal, etc.).
Fewer shared services than with co-ownership (elevator, concierge, etc.).
4. Access to services: an important point in everyday life
In the city:
Public transport, hospitals, shops, schools and universities are in the immediate vicinity.
There is less need to own a car.
Fast rail or air connections for business trips.
In the country:
Having your own vehicle is almost essential.
Fewer technical schools or medical facilities unless you are near a regional center.
Sometimes it takes longer for emergency services to respond.
5. Rental yield and resale potential
Another important aspect to consider is the property return and the ability to easily resell the property.
Real estate in the city:
Strong demand for rental apartments, especially in large metropolitan areas.
Generally faster resale.
High potential for added value, but also a more competitive market.
Real estate in the countryside:
Lower rental returns.
Higher liquidity risk (difficulty in selling quickly).
However, there is strong growth in certain areas due to telecommuting and the post-COVID urban exodus.
6. Lifestyle: What you gain or lose
In the city:
Faster life, access to varied leisure activities.
Less living space for the same budget.
More anonymity, but also individual freedom.
In the country:
More space, often a garden or terrace.
Stronger community life (neighborhood, clubs, local activities).
Fewer consumer temptations = better control of the family budget.
7. Trends in the Swiss real estate market: City or country in 2025?
Current Swiss real estate statistics show a gradual shift to the outskirts of major cities.
Observations:
Prices are rising in the suburbs: cities near Lausanne, Geneva and Bern are in high demand.
Stabilised or slightly declined in certain very rural areas, excluding tourist areas.
Increased demand for houses with gardens, even in semi-rural areas.
8. Our tips for making the right choice
Before making your decision, ask yourself the following important questions:
What is your ideal lifestyle?
Do you have (or will you have) children to raise?
Do you work on-site or remotely?
What is your maximum monthly budget (including fees)?
Do you plan to sell in 5 to 10 years?
How much do you tolerate commuting and isolation?
Trick:
Run a complete budget simulation, including all additional costs (transportation, taxes, maintenance, etc.). Sometimes a cheaper house in the countryside costs more on a day-to-day basis than a well-located city apartment.
Conclusion: a personal but strategic decision
There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of urban or rural living. The right choice depends on your personal, professional, family, and financial goals. However, in Switzerland, the differences between the two options in terms of price and lifestyle should be carefully considered before signing a purchase agreement.
If you're looking for space, peace, and a life close to nature, the countryside has a lot to offer. If you value mobility, services, and career opportunities, the city remains a good choice. In any case, real estate planning is key to a successful purchase.
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