How can I compare my salary in Ticino with those in other Swiss or Italian regions?

You can use the [Ticino vs Lombardy salary calculator](nav:salary-compare) available on Frontaliere Ticino to evaluate differences in net income and cost of living, comparing your situation with that of other regions.

What risks does Ticino face if it does not implement a concrete strategy?

If the State Council does not adopt concrete measures, Ticino risks losing more talent, which would negatively impact economic growth, business productivity, and attractiveness for cross-border workers. Costs for businesses and families could rise, and the canton may become less competitive compared to other regions.

Youth exodus from Ticino: Claudio Isabella calls for clear political vision

Di Valerie Linc · 11 April 2026, 19:27

Ticino Centre Party deputy Claudio Isabella is urging the cantonal government to abandon its wait-and-see stance on the phenomenon of young people leaving the canton.

Contesto

On April 11, 2026, Ticino Centre Party deputy Claudio Isabella submitted a formal question to the Ticino cantonal government, demanding concrete answers to the growing exodus of young people from the canton. Isabella, who serves both as a member of the cantonal parliament and a trade unionist, highlighted how the flight of young talent represents a structural challenge for Ticino, particularly in an economic context already struggling to retain and attract skilled workers. According to Isabella, the cantonal government risks remaining in a 'wait-and-see position', merely monitoring the phenomenon without taking proactive measures. The formal question therefore calls for the development of a clear, forward-looking political strategy capable of addressing the needs of those who choose to leave Ticino and encouraging the return of those who have already made the move. 'The problem is not just economic, but also cultural and social,' the deputy stressed, underlining how the lack of long-term prospects is pushing many young people to seek opportunities elsewhere, especially in urban centers in neighboring Lombardy or central Switzerland. Isabella specifically emphasized the need for interventions in key sectors such as education, vocational training, and the labor market. 'Ticino must become a place where young people can build their future without having to emigrate,' he declared. While the formal question does not specify which concrete measures have already been adopted by the cantonal government, it simply requests an in-depth analysis and an official stance. ### Understanding the phenomenon: why are young people leaving Ticino? The issue of young people leaving Ticino is not new, but in recent years it has reached alarming proportions. According to as-yet unspecifie...

Dettagli operativi

The exodus of young people from Ticino is not merely a social issue, but also carries significant economic and fiscal implications for the canton and cross-border workers. According to as-yet unspecified estimates, every young person leaving Ticino represents a loss of productive and tax potential, particularly if they are highly skilled professionals. This could translate into lower tax revenues for the canton and reduced demand for public services such as healthcare and education. ### The economic impact: what is Ticino at risk of? Ticino has long relied on traditional sectors such as tourism, craftsmanship, and agriculture. However, in recent years, some industries have been in crisis, while others struggle to innovate. The exodus of young people, in this context, risks accelerating the decline of these sectors, with negative consequences for employment and economic growth. In particular, high-tech and advanced services sectors could slow down if local talent cannot be retained. ### Competition with neighboring regions This phenomenon is not unique to Ticino but is widespread across many Italian and Swiss regions. Cities like Milan, Zurich, and Geneva offer higher average salaries, often lower living costs (for equivalent services), and greater career opportunities. In Ticino’s case, proximity to Lombardy presents both an opportunity and a threat: on one hand, cross-border workers can continue to work in Ticino while maintaining their residence in Italy, but on the other, many young Ticinesi choose to relocate across the border for more favorable working conditions. ### The role of cross-border workers: an opportunity for Ticino Despite the phenomenon of young people leaving, cross-border workers remain a vital resource for Ticino’s economy. According to as-yet...

Punti chiave

[object Object] [object Object] ## How can I assess whether my salary in Ticino is competitive? > How can I assess whether my salary in Ticino is competitive? > To compare your salary with alternatives, you can use the Ticino vs Lombardia salary calculator to evaluate differences in net income and cost of living. ## What happens if I decide to move to Milan or Zurich? > What happens if I decide to move to Milan or Zurich? > Moving to another city involves a series of changes, both professionally and personally. It is advisable to carefully evaluate job opportunities, cost of living, and career prospects before making a decision. Additionally, it is useful to gather information about the transfer procedures, such as residency and registration with the local registry office. ## Are there any measures in the pipeline to improve connectivity in Ticino? > Are there any measures in the pipeline to improve connectivity in Ticino? > No specific measures have been announced yet to enhance connectivity, but some projects, such as the upgrade of the Gotthard railway or the introduction of new air connections, could represent an opportunity to retain young people. It is advisable to follow announcements from the State Council to stay updated. 📊💡⚠️ Source: laregione.ch

Punti chiave

{"q":"What are the main reasons why young people leave Ticino according to the article?","a":"According to Claudio Isabella, young people leave Ticino primarily due to the lack of job prospects in the canton, salaries perceived as low compared to other Swiss regions, and the high cost of living. Additionally, a cultural and social issue is highlighted, with the feeling that Ticino does not offer long-term career opportunities."},{"q":"Has the Ticino State Council already taken concrete measures to address the exodus of young people?","a":"No. Currently, the State Council has not yet adopted any concrete measures. Claudio Isabella's inquiry specifically calls for a clear and forward-looking political strategy, but no definitive decisions have been announced."},{"q":"How can a cross-border worker employed in Ticino prepare for potential political changes?","a":"It is advisable to follow official communications from the Ticino State Council by checking the dfc.ti.ch website or subscribing to institutional newsletters. Additionally, it is useful to assess your own employment situation and opportunities offered by your company, as well as exploring training or networking possibilities at institutions like SUPSI or USI."},{"q":"Are there already tax incentives for young people who stay in Ticino?","a":"No specific tax incentives for young people have been announced at this time. However, some companies and institutions are considering introducing training or mentoring programs, and some municipalities may introduce incentives for first-time homebuyers."},{"q":"Which sectors in Ticino could benefit from a strategy to retain young people?","a":"Sectors that could benefit from targeted strategies include high-tech and innovation (thanks to USI in Lugano), healthcare (growing due...

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons why young people leave Ticino according to the article?: According to Claudio Isabella, young people leave Ticino primarily due to the lack of job prospects in the canton, salaries perceived as low compared to other Swiss regions, and the high cost of living. Additionally, a cultural and social issue is highlighted, with the feeling that Ticino does not offer long-term career opportunities.
Has the Ticino State Council already taken concrete measures to address the exodus of young people?: No. Currently, the State Council has not yet adopted any concrete measures. Claudio Isabella's inquiry specifically calls for a clear and forward-looking political strategy, but no definitive decisions have been announced.
How can a cross-border worker employed in Ticino prepare for potential political changes?: It is advisable to follow official communications from the Ticino State Council by checking the dfc.ti.ch website or subscribing to institutional newsletters. Additionally, it is useful to assess your own employment situation and opportunities offered by your company, as well as exploring training or networking possibilities at institutions like SUPSI or USI.
Are there already tax incentives for young people who stay in Ticino?: No specific tax incentives for young people have been announced at this time. However, some companies and institutions are considering introducing training or mentoring programs, and some municipalities may introduce incentives for first-time homebuyers.
Which sectors in Ticino could benefit from a strategy to retain young people?: Sectors that could benefit from targeted strategies include high-tech and innovation (thanks to USI in Lugano), healthcare (growing due to an aging population), and tourism/culture (leveraging local excellence).
How can I compare my salary in Ticino with those in other Swiss or Italian regions?: You can use the [Ticino vs Lombardy salary calculator](nav:salary-compare) available on Frontaliere Ticino to evaluate differences in net income and cost of living, comparing your situation with that of other regions.
What risks does Ticino face if it does not implement a concrete strategy?: If the State Council does not adopt concrete measures, Ticino risks losing more talent, which would negatively impact economic growth, business productivity, and attractiveness for cross-border workers. Costs for businesses and families could rise, and the canton may become less competitive compared to other regions.