Homes in Switzerland: the shortage has eased since 2027 (cross-border guide)

Studio Wüest Partner: The housing shortage in Switzerland could be alleviated by the end of 2027 with 50,000 new units planned.
Context
In brief
- Severe increase in housing shortage
- Lowest point overcome
- 45,000 units in 2026
- 50,000 units in 2027
Key facts
- Study published by: Wüest Partner
- Net increase in 2024: 40,000 homes according to FSO
- Estimated increase for 2025: 39,000 homes
- Forecast for 2026: around 45,000 housing units
- Forecast for 2027: around 50,000 housing units
In a context characterised by strong population growth in Switzerland, a significant housing shortage is currently being recorded, but the situation may improve soon, at least in some regions of the country. This is the main conclusion of a study published by the Wüest Partner real estate consultancy firm. According to the research, the lowest point in housing construction in Switzerland should now have been overcome. The company is forecasting around 45,000 housing units in 2026 and around 50,000 housing units in 2027.
To provide a direct comparison, it is worth looking at the data provided by the Federal Statistical Office (FSO), according to which the net increase in 2024 was only 40,000 homes. As for the current year, 2025, the estimates produced by Wüest Partner indicate a further decline to just 39,000 homes, effectively representing the lowest level recorded since 2009. This prolonged slowdown has exacerbated tensions in the Swiss real estate market, pushing up demand and drastically reducing the options available to those looking for a home.
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Operational details
The recovery of the real estate and construction market will not be distributed uniformly across the entire national territory, but will follow a gradual and differentiated progression depending on the region. In fact, during 2026, the recovery will remain predominantly localized at the regional level. Housing production is expected to exceed the long-term average, particularly in individual cantons of French-speaking Switzerland and Alpine regions, offering a first glimmer of relief in well-defined geographical areas.
The situation is destined to evolve further in the following year. In 2027, the recovery will clearly gain greater geographical breadth, involving a larger number of territories. In particular, a strong increase in the number of available housing units is expected in Thurgau, Geneva, Valais, and Neuchâtel. Large parts of the Swiss Plateau should also significantly benefit from this positive development, offering new opportunities for those seeking stable housing solutions.
Regional differences and prospects in major centers
Despite growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027, significant territorial disparities persist that require attention. In approximately half of Swiss cantons, housing production will continue to remain below the long-term average. Real estate experts strongly emphasize that a generalized easing of housing tensions is not yet on the horizon for the entire country.
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Key points
Navigating the Swiss real estate market during a period of transition and persistent housing shortages requires careful planning and knowledge of the tools available to assess one's financial and housing situation. Those living or working in Switzerland who are considering buying or renting a property must carefully consider the evolution of construction costs, interest rates, and regional specificities described by Wüest Partner experts. Although the production of new housing is expected to increase to 50,000 units by 2027, the situation in major urban centers will remain complex for a long time to come.
To navigate the Swiss economic and real estate landscape with awareness, it is essential to regularly monitor one's fixed expenses, assess the impact of the cost of living, and carefully plan one's household or personal budget. Access to precise data on income and expenses allows for greater confidence in any decision related to renting or real estate investment, taking into account the specificities of the Swiss market and its regional dynamics.
Financial Planning and Useful Tools
Before taking any steps to change residence or renegotiate rental agreements, it is advisable to verify your overall economic sustainability through official channels and dedicated calculation tools. To analyze your finances in detail, estimate the impact of deductions, and plan your budget in Switzerland, you can use the salary calculator available online.
Source: swissinfo.ch
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Wüest Partner's forecasts for housing construction in Switzerland?
- According to the study published by the real estate consulting firm Wüest Partner, the lowest point in housing construction in Switzerland has been surpassed. The company forecasts about 45,000 housing units during 2026 and about 50,000 housing units during 2027, marking a clear increase compared to the net increase of 40,000 housing units recorded in 2024 according to the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).
- Why has there been a severe housing shortage and a building slowdown?
- The slowdown was caused by several factors that temporarily held back the real estate sector. Among the main reasons are the greater complexity in the planning and construction of new homes due to additional building requirements, the increase in construction costs and the trend in interest rates. However, many projects started from 2020 onwards are now at an advanced stage.
- Will the resumption of housing production be uniform throughout Switzerland?
- No, the shot will not be evenly distributed. In 2026, production will exceed the long-term average, especially in individual cantons of French-speaking Switzerland and in the Alpine regions. In 2027, the recovery will involve a greater number of territories, with a strong increase in Thurgau, Geneva, Valais and Neuchâtel, as well as in the Swiss Plateau. In large urban centres, on the other hand, the situation will remain complex and construction production will remain constrained.
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