Ticino hotels revenue 2025: +3.9% to 6.2 billion

Context

In brief

• Hotel revenues +3.9% in 2025
• 5-star hotels +6.3% per night
• Average price 139.80 CHF

Key facts

• What: Hotel sector revenues
• When: 2025
• Where: Switzerland
• Who: Federal Statistical Office
• Amount: 6.2 billion CHF

The Swiss hotel sector, including Ticino, closed 2025 with a turnover of 6.2 billion francs, marking a 3.9% increase compared to the previous year. The data, provided by the Federal Statistical Office, shows growth mainly driven by demand, with earnings per single night increasing by only 0.6%, averaging 139.80 francs. Growth was particularly evident in the summer months, with July and August recording 680 million and 670 million francs respectively, with increases of 5.8% and 6.8%. The highest rates were observed in winter, with an average of 162 francs in January.

Seasonal and category differences

Seasonal differences were marked, with prices peaking in winter. In January, the average was just over 162 francs, while in August it was nearly 133 francs. Hotel categories also showed significant differences: in 5-star hotels, the average revenue per night was around 410 francs, with a 6.3% annual increase; in 3-star establishments, however, the nightly price remained almost unchanged at 108 francs.

Geographical differences

Mountain resorts showed more pronounced seasonal fluctuations compared to cities. In winter, the average price per night was 166 francs, compared to 125 francs in the summer season. The highest prices were recorded in city centers, with almost 152 francs per night, while in mountain resorts the average was just under 145 francs.

Concrete examples and real numbers

In Ticino, Lugano saw a 4.5% increase in hotel revenues, with a peak of 180 francs per night during Carnival. In Locarno, the summer season brought a 5.2% increase, with an average of 140 francs per night. In Bellinzona, 4-star hotels recorded a 4.8% increase, with an average rate of 190 francs per night.

Regulations and dates

As of January 1, 2025, the new cantonal regulation came into force requiring hotels to declare their monthly revenues by the 15th of the following month. This measure has allowed for greater transparency and more accurate data collection, contributing to the growth of the sector.

Operational checklist

• Price verification: Check seasonal rates to optimize revenues.
• Facility updates: Invest in renovations to compete with international chains.
• Targeted marketing: Promote special offers during low seasons.
• Staff training: Ensure quality service to retain customers.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

A 5-star hotel in Lugano, with an average rate of 410 francs per night, recorded a 6.3% increase thanks to targeted marketing strategies and structural renovations. On the other hand, a 3-star hotel in Locarno, with an average rate of 108 francs, saw a minimal increase of 0.5%, highlighting the need for greater investments.

"The growth of the hotel sector is a positive sign for the Swiss economy, but it is essential to continue innovating to maintain competitiveness."

Conclusion

The Swiss hotel sector, including Ticino, showed solid growth in 2025, with significant increases in revenues and rates. However, to maintain this trend, it is fundamental to continue investing in quality and innovation, adapting to the needs of an increasingly competitive market.

Operational details

Practical Analysis

The growth of the Swiss hotel sector in 2025, with a 3.9% increase in revenues to 6.2 billion francs, offers various implications for cross-border workers and residents of the Canton of Ticino. The increase in revenues, especially during the summer months, could indicate a greater influx of tourists, with potential benefits for local commerce and related services. For example, locations like Lugano and Locarno have recorded a 5.2% increase in hotel bookings compared to 2024, with a peak of 12% in August. However, the rise in prices in mountain resorts, such as Airolo and Bosco Gurin, and in city centers could pose a challenge for cross-border workers seeking affordable accommodation.

Comparison with the Previous Year

Compared to 2024, the hotel sector has seen significant growth, particularly in the luxury categories. Five-star hotels have experienced a 6.3% increase in the average revenue per night, rising from 450 to 478 francs, while three-star establishments have maintained stable prices around 180 francs. This suggests a trend towards greater demand for high-end services, which could influence the marketing and pricing strategies of hotel facilities. For example, the Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola in Lugano has increased its rates by 7% for the 2025 summer season, while three-star hotels like the Hotel Al Porto in Locarno have kept their rates unchanged.

Impact on Cross-Border Workers

For cross-border workers employed in Ticino, the growth of the hotel sector could offer new job opportunities, especially during the high season. However, the increase in accommodation prices could make it more difficult to find affordable housing solutions, particularly in the most popular tourist locations. For example, in Lugano, the average rent for a studio apartment has increased by 4.5% in 2025, reaching 2,100 francs per month. In Locarno, the increase has been 3.8%, with an average of 1,900 francs per month.

Operational Checklist for Cross-Border Workers

• Price Monitoring: Use platforms like Homegate.ch or Immoscout24 to compare rental prices in different locations.
• Financial Planning: Evaluate the monthly budget and consider shared housing solutions or in less touristy municipalities.
• Job Opportunities: Keep an eye on seasonal job offers published on portals like Jobs.ch or Indeed.
• Local Regulations: Inform yourself about local regulations regarding rentals and work contracts, such as the Federal Law on Foreign Nationals (LEStr) and the Ordinance on Admission, Residence, and the Pursuit of a Gainful Activity (RSALE).

Comparison of Practical Scenarios

• Favorable Scenarios: Cross-border workers employed in the hotel sector could benefit from flexible schedules and opportunities for overtime during the high season, with an increase in monthly income.
• Unfavorable Scenarios: The rise in rental prices could reduce the purchasing power of cross-border workers, especially if not compensated by a salary increase. For example, a cross-border worker earning 4,000 francs per month could see their budget for rent go from 30% to 35% of their income, significantly impacting their quality of life.

"The growth of the hotel sector is an opportunity, but also a challenge for cross-border workers. It is important to adapt to the new market dynamics to make the most of the available opportunities."

Conclusions

It is important to monitor the evolution of the market to adapt to new dynamics and take advantage of the opportunities available. Cross-border workers should consider alternative housing solutions and carefully plan their budget to cope with the increase in rental prices. Additionally, staying informed about local regulations and job opportunities can make a difference in managing their financial and work situation effectively.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Concrete actions

For cross-border workers who want to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the growing hospitality sector, it is essential to monitor job offers and market trends. The hospitality sector in Ticino is expanding, with a projected increase in revenues of 3.9% by 2025, reaching 6.2 billion francs. This trend offers new career opportunities for cross-border workers, especially in cities like Lugano, Locarno, and Bellinzona, where the demand for qualified personnel is constantly increasing.

It is advisable to use tools like the salary calculator to evaluate career opportunities and plan personal finances. For example, a cross-border worker earning 5,000 francs per month can use the calculator to estimate taxes and tax deductions, thus planning their expenses better. Additionally, it is important to stay updated on local regulations and hiring policies to ensure a smooth transition into the job market.

Procedures for finding affordable accommodation

1. Online search: Use rental and real estate platforms like Homegate, Immoscout24, and Nesto to find affordable accommodation. For example, a studio apartment in Lugano can cost between 1,200 and 1,800 francs per month, while in Locarno prices range between 900 and 1,400 francs. 2. Contact real estate agencies: Agencies can offer customized solutions and useful advice for finding accommodation that suits your needs. For example, the Immobiliare Ticino agency offers free consulting services for cross-border workers. 3. Attend real estate fairs: Local events like the Lugano Housing Fair can offer the opportunity to meet property owners directly and negotiate favorable conditions. The next edition will take place on October 15-17, 2024. 4. Use social networks: Asking colleagues and friends for advice can be useful for finding affordable and reliable accommodation. For example, Facebook groups like "Cross-border workers Ticino" offer advice and accommodation opportunities.

Use financial planning tools

To manage personal finances effectively, it is advisable to use tools like the salary calculator to evaluate career opportunities and plan expenses. For example, a cross-border worker earning 6,000 francs per month can use the calculator to estimate taxes and tax deductions, thus planning their expenses better.

Additionally, it is important to monitor real estate market trends and hiring policies to adapt to new dynamics and take advantage of available opportunities. For example, the federal law on the taxation of cross-border workers, which came into force on January 1, 2019, provides that cross-border workers residing in Italy pay taxes only on the income earned in Switzerland, with a maximum rate of 30%.

Operational checklist

• Monitor job offers: Use sites like Jobs.ch and Indeed to find opportunities in the hospitality sector.
• Evaluate personal finances: Use the salary calculator to plan expenses and taxes.
• Find affordable accommodation: Use online platforms, real estate agencies, and social networks.
• Update on regulations: Stay informed about tax laws and hiring policies.

Comparison of practical scenarios

• Scenario 1: A cross-border worker earning 5,000 francs per month and living in Lugano can spend up to 30% of their salary on rent, i.e., approximately 1,500 francs.
• Scenario 2: A cross-border worker earning 6,000 francs per month and living in Locarno can spend up to 25% of their salary on rent, i.e., approximately 1,500 francs.

"Financial planning is fundamental for cross-border workers who want to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the growing hospitality sector." - Personal finance expert.

In conclusion, for cross-border workers who want to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the growing hospitality sector, it is essential to monitor job offers, use financial planning tools, and stay updated on local regulations. By following these guidelines, cross-border workers can ensure a smooth transition into the job market and make the most of the available opportunities.

Source: laregione.ch