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Cost of Living in Lugano, Switzerland | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Lugano, Switzerland

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 15, 2024

Summary: The cost of living in Lugano, Switzerland is generally considered to be high. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Lugano can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Lugano can range from $20 to $50 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Lugano high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Lugano, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Lugano is generally considered to be high. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are all more expensive than in many other parts of the world. Eating out can be especially costly, with a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around 50 Swiss Francs. Renting an apartment in the city center can be expensive, with prices ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 Swiss Francs per month," remarked one expat in Lugano.

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Will I save money living in Lugano?

"Living in Lugano can be more expensive than living in the United States. The cost of living in Lugano is higher than in many parts of the United States, with the cost of housing, food, and transportation being particularly expensive. Additionally, the Swiss Franc is more expensive than the US Dollar, meaning that goods and services cost more in Switzerland than in the US. However, the higher cost of living in Lugano is offset by the fact that wages are also higher in Switzerland than in the US, meaning that people can often make more money in Lugano than they would in the US," remarked one expat in Lugano.

What is the average cost of housing in Lugano?

If you are thinking about moving to Lugano, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Lugano is generally quite high. Renting an apartment in the city center can cost upwards of 2,000 Swiss Francs per month, while a house in the suburbs can cost around 1,500 Swiss Francs per month. Prices can vary depending on the size and location of the property," remarked one in Lugano.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB Global

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Lugano?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Lugano can range from around $1,000 to $2,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 per month," said one expat living in Lugano.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Lugano what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Lugano typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and other small kitchen appliances," said one expat.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB Global
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