Locarno: population record, but fewer residents

Context

In brief

• Locarno has reached a record of 16,500 inhabitants
• Residents decreased by 3% in 2025
• Bellinzona gained 500 new residents from Locarno

Key facts

• What: Record number of inhabitants in Locarno
• When: 6 May 2026
• Where: Locarno, Canton Ticino
• Who: Management of the Locarno Municipal Council
• Amount: Not specified

The Management of the Locarno Municipal Council has taken a singular position by inviting the Municipality to use less triumphant tones regarding the record number of inhabitants reached. Despite the increase in the number of inhabitants to 16,500, residents decreased by 3% in 2025, and Bellinzona attracted 500. This phenomenon raises questions about the demographic and residential dynamics of the city.

The article by Davide Martinoni on laRegione.ch highlights how the situation is complex and requires an in-depth analysis. The reduction in residents could indicate a change in residential preferences or local policies. Bellinzona, in particular, seems to attract part of Locarno's inhabitants, a phenomenon that deserves further investigation.

Analysis of demographic dynamics

The demographic dynamics in Locarno are evolving. The increase in the number of inhabitants could be due to various factors, including tourist attraction, job opportunities, and quality of life. However, the decrease in residents suggests that many people might prefer not to reside permanently in Locarno, opting instead for other locations like Bellinzona.

For example, in 2025, Bellinzona recorded an increase of 500 residents from Locarno, while Lugano saw a 2% increase in new residents. This shift could be linked to factors such as proximity to larger job centers or the availability of more affordable housing.

Impact on local policies

The reduction in residents could influence Locarno's ability to attract investments and develop infrastructure. Local authorities should consider measures to improve residential attractiveness, such as offering affordable housing, quality services, and a welcoming urban environment. Additionally, it is important to monitor demographic trends to adapt local policies to the needs of the population.

Operational checklist for local authorities

1. Analysis of demographic data: Collect and analyze detailed data on population movements. 2. Surveys on quality of life: Conduct surveys to understand the preferences and needs of residents. 3. Development of housing policies: Implement measures to make housing more accessible and attractive. 4. Improvement of public services: Invest in quality services to improve residents' daily lives. 5. Promotion of the city: Launch marketing campaigns to attract new residents and investments.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

• Scenario 1: Locarno continues to lose residents in favor of Bellinzona and Lugano. This could lead to a reduction in tax revenues and a decrease in investments in local infrastructure.
• Scenario 2: Locarno implements effective policies to attract and retain residents. This could lead to an increase in tax revenues, an improvement in public services, and greater attractiveness for investments.

Regulations and incentives

Canton and federal regulations can offer incentives to attract new residents. For example, Canton Ticino introduced a program of incentives for the purchase of first homes in 2024, with a maximum contribution of 50,000 CHF for new residents. Additionally, the 'Ticino Welcome' program offers support for integration and job placement.

Conclusion

The record number of inhabitants in Locarno is a positive sign, but the decrease in residents and the attraction of Bellinzona require an in-depth analysis and targeted action to ensure sustainable and inclusive development of the city. Local authorities must adopt concrete measures to improve residential attractiveness and constantly monitor demographic trends.

Operational details

Analysis of Causes

The reduction in residents in Locarno, from 16,200 in 2019 to 15,800 in 2023, could be due to a series of factors, including tax policies, housing availability, and job opportunities. Bellinzona, with its strategic position and attractions, might offer more favorable conditions for residents. For example, Bellinzona saw a 3.2% increase in residents over the same period, reaching 45,500.

Comparison with Bellinzona

Bellinzona, with its rich historical heritage and central location in the canton of Ticino, might offer significant advantages for those seeking stable residence. Local policies, such as tax incentives and public services, could play a crucial role in attracting inhabitants from Locarno. For example, Bellinzona introduced a tax incentive for new residents in 2022, reducing the municipal residence tax by 10% for the first three years.

Future Scenarios

If the trend continues, Locarno might face significant challenges in maintaining its resident population. It is essential to develop strategies to improve the city's attractiveness, such as investing in infrastructure, promoting cultural activities, and creating economic opportunities.

Concrete Measures

Local authorities might consider introducing incentives for new residents, such as discounts on municipal taxes or housing purchase benefits. Additionally, improving the quality of life through investments in public services and green spaces could make Locarno more attractive.

Operational Checklist

• Market Analysis: Evaluate the availability and prices of housing.
• Tax Incentives: Introduce benefits for new residents.
• Infrastructure Investments: Improve transportation and public services.
• Cultural Promotion: Organize events and activities to attract residents.

Conclusion

The demographic situation in Locarno requires immediate attention and strategic action. Understanding the reasons behind the reduction in residents and developing measures to attract and retain them is fundamental for the city's future.

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Key points

Concrete actions for residents

For residents of Locarno, it is crucial to monitor local policies and actively participate in community life. For example, the Municipality of Locarno has launched a public consultation program on the city's urban future, with monthly meetings open to all citizens. Participating in these initiatives can help influence decisions that will affect quality of life. Additionally, the Municipality offers tax incentives for those who choose to renovate historic buildings, with deductions of up to 30% of the costs incurred, a concrete incentive for those who want to invest in the area.

Procedure to move to Bellinzona

If you are considering moving to Bellinzona, it is important to follow a series of concrete steps. First, you need to inform yourself about local residential and tax policies. Bellinzona, for example, offers a favorable tax regime for new residents, with a 20% reduced rate for the first three years. Subsequently, it is advisable to visit the city and evaluate the job opportunities and available infrastructure. Bellinzona boasts a diversified economic fabric, with sectors such as tourism, education, and healthcare in strong expansion.

Required documents

To move to Bellinzona, you need to present a series of documents, including the residence permit, the rental or purchase contract of a home, and proof of income. It is important to verify with the local authorities the specific requirements and procedures to follow. For example, the Municipality of Bellinzona requires a residence declaration within 15 days of arrival, accompanied by a copy of the passport or identity card. Additionally, you need to present a certificate of good conduct, issued by the authorities of the country of origin.

Operational checklist

• Personal documents: Passport or identity card, residence permit, certificate of good conduct.
• Real estate documents: Rental or purchase contract, property certificate, habitability certificate.
• Tax documents: Proof of income, income tax returns for the last three years, tax residence certificate.
• Health documents: Health card, medical certificate, any vaccination certificates.

Professional assistance

For those seeking professional assistance, you can turn to a real estate agency or a tax consultant. These professionals can provide personalized advice and help navigate the complexities of the move. For example, the Ticinese Real Estate Consortium offers free consulting services for those looking for a home, with an updated database of over 2,000 available properties. Additionally, the Ticinese Tax Consultant offers complete tax assistance packages, with an average cost of 1,500 CHF per year.

Comparison of practical scenarios

Moving to Bellinzona can offer significant advantages over other Ticino municipalities. For example, the average cost of renting a 90 sqm apartment in Bellinzona is approximately 1,800 CHF per month, compared to the 2,100 CHF required in Lugano. Additionally, Bellinzona offers a more extensive public transport network, with direct connections to Locarno, Lugano, and Zurich. However, it is important to consider the disadvantages as well, such as the lack of infrastructure for research and innovation, which is present in Lugano.

Conclusion

The demographic situation in Locarno requires immediate attention and strategic action. Understanding the reasons behind the reduction in residents and developing measures to attract and retain them is fundamental for the city's future. For residents, actively participating in community life and considering a move to Bellinzona could be a practical solution. Calculate the cost of your move

Source: laregione.ch