Lugano Housing: Can You Afford to Live There? Shocking Rent Stats!
Colaboradores
Lugano, Switzerland – a city known for its stunning lake views and high quality of life. But can the average person actually afford to live there? A recent study reveals some surprising figures about the affordability of rental housing in Lugano.
40% of Lugano Rentals Considered Affordable
According to a statistical study presented by the Lugano Municipality, approximately 40% of rental apartments in the city meet the criteria for economic sustainability. The city defines "sustainable" housing as rent, including expenses, not exceeding 30% of a household's monthly income.
For example, a typical family of four (two adults and two children) with a monthly income of 7,760 Swiss francs could potentially access about a third of the Lugano rental market under this definition.
Is 30% the Right Threshold?
The choice of 30% as the affordability threshold has sparked some debate. The Federal Housing Office sets a lower threshold of 25% for low-income families, suggesting that exceeding this level could compromise other essential needs. However, Lorenzo Barisone, a city statistician, explains that 30% is a commonly defined threshold at the European level.
He also notes that Lugano's 30% threshold aligns with the poverty risk rate in Ticino (21.6%), suggesting that even lowering the threshold would yield comparable results.
Concerns About Location and Quality
Critics point out that affordable housing is often located outside the city center, raising concerns about its quality. Barisone acknowledges the challenge of investigating the quality of sustainable housing specifically. However, he mentions a general study on Lugano buildings, which will be updated in the summer and presented in the fall, that aims to address this issue.
Migration Trends in Lugano
Lugano's migration statistics for 2024 reveal interesting trends. The city attracts young, working-age individuals and students, often from Italy, seeking professional opportunities and a better quality of life. Conversely, many foreign citizens leave Lugano upon retirement, returning to their home countries.
Despite these departures, Lugano's migration balance remains positive, with more arrivals than departures since 2021. However, more Lugano residents are leaving the city for other parts of Ticino, often seeking more green space or a lower cost of living.
Ultimately, while Lugano offers a desirable lifestyle, the affordability of housing remains a key consideration for both current and prospective residents.