If you're planning to move to Lausanne, finding accommodation should be a priority. Keep in mind that demand for housing greatly exceeds supply, so it's best to start your search well in advance.
Located in western Switzerland, Lausanne is a top destination for expatriates. As the capital of the canton of Vaud, Lausanne is one of Switzerland's largest cities, with a population of just over 150,000 in 2024, including a significant number of expatriates.
The city attracts foreigners from the European Union and worldwide due to its pleasant climate, appealing environment, and numerous professional opportunities.
Lausanne's neighborhoods
Lausanne is divided into 18 districts, including the city center, Maupas-Valency, Sébeillon-Malley, Montoie-Bourdonnette, Montriond-Cour, and Sous-Gare-Ouchy.
You can view a map of all districts on the City of Lausanne website.
The city center, including the Flon district, is the hub for businesses, banks, and other institutions, as well as the metro terminal. It's the most densely populated area, and, as expected, real estate options are limited.
The Ouchy and Sous-Gare neighborhoods have a bit more space and housing, though they are still densely populated. Many retirees live here. Ouchy, once an old fishing village, has expanded over the years thanks to the port of Lausanne and the Olympic Museum.
To the west, the Montoie-Bourdonnette area is a good choice if you're planning to study at Lausanne University. This district is very young and attracts many foreigners.
Further west, Sébeillon is an area with an industrial heritage that has been growing rapidly since the 2000s. Many new homes have been constructed here in recent years.
If you have children, consider the Sauvabelin district to the north, which offers many green spaces and has a lower population density compared to other parts of Lausanne. This area primarily consists of single-family homes.
Chailly-Rovéréaz, to the northeast, is an affluent neighborhood with a preserved village atmosphere. It has an older population and features many single-family homes.
Florimont-Chissiez is a densely populated area with an interesting architectural landscape. It is popular among well-to-do residents and continues to attract more people.
Property rental prices in Lausanne
Median rental property prices in Lausanne are high but not as much as in Geneva and Zurich.
Currently, the median price per square meter in Lausanne is CHF 353 per year. For a 100-square-meter apartment, count an average monthly rent of CHF 2,941, depending on the location and condition of the property.
In comparison, the median annual rent per square meter in Zurich is CHF 431, with an average monthly rent of CHF 3,591 for a 100-square-meter apartment. In Geneva, the average rent for a similar-sized apartment is CHF 3,866 per month.
The most affordable area for renting property right now is Beaulieu—Grey—Boisy, located near the Pontaise Olympic Stadium. The median price is CHF 315 per square meter per year. Nearby Sébeillon—Malley offers more reasonable prices, as does Bossons—Blécherette, a bit further north.
Finding accommodation in Lausanne
In recent years, the rental market in Lausanne has been evolving to address the gap between supply and demand, but demand still significantly exceeds supply.
Despite the competitive market, you can still find studios, apartments, detached houses, and shared flats for rent. However, student accommodation and homestays are becoming increasingly scarce.
Currently, there are 1,706 rental properties available in the city, covering various types of accommodation.
You can find housing options in Lausanne on various property websites and in the classified ads in local newspapers. To increase your chances of finding a property that matches your needs and budget, consider reaching out to a real estate agent.
Additionally, engaging with social media communities and expat forums can be very helpful. These platforms are often active and can provide valuable assistance in your search.
Important:
It's a good idea to gather all the necessary documents and start your search at least 6 months before you move. Specifically, make sure to have proof of your monthly income and, if applicable, your Swiss employment contract.
Useful links:
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
