Rent a house
Renting a house in Switzerland
A rented house combines space, comfort and flexibility – perfect for families or anyone looking for more room and freedom. Whether you’re in the market for a charming detached house or a modern terraced house, demand is high. The vacancy rate for flats is just 1.01%, so vacant rental properties are highly sought-after.
Renting a house: advantages and tips
More space, privacy and often your own garden
You stay flexible by not tying up equity or taking out a mortgage
Suitable for temporary stays or a trial period before buying
Utilities and maintenance (e.g. garden) may be higher
Market overview: houses to let in Switzerland
The housing stock in Switzerland is changing: 235’897 new residential properties have been built in the last five years. Despite this change, the rental market remains competitive. The average monthly rent for rental properties is CHF 1640; 25% of properties cost CHF 1300 or less, while 75% cost CHF 2070 or less (figures refer to rental properties as a whole). Rental houses are often more expensive, depending on the location and the standard of the property. Energy-efficient properties with good public transport links are in particularly high demand.
Costs of renting a house
Your rent consists of the net rent and utilities such as heating, water, rubbish collection and building maintenance; you usually pay for electricity and internet separately. A deposit of up to three months’ rent is standard. You should also budget for the costs of removals, final cleaning and minor purchases. The average tax burden in the region is 12.38% – single people without children pay around 12.38%, while married couples with two children pay around 116.81%.
A step-by-step guide to deciding whether renting a house is right for you
Define your needs: rooms, outdoor space, pets, study.
Set your budget: net rent, utilities, deposit, taxes, moving costs.
Compare locations: public transport, schools, shopping, travel times.
Provide documents: credit report, payslips, copy of ID, references.
View the property and review the contract: condition of property, energy costs, walk-through checklist documenting the state of the property at handover; check the rental agreement regarding utility costs, the reference interest rate, deposit and clauses; submit application on time.
Next steps: find a house to rent today
Use precise filters, save your searches and arrange viewings quickly. Review your documents before the appointment, clarify any outstanding issues and coordinate your move-in with the landlord and local authority.