Buying property in Lausanne: our complete guide

In 2026, the capital of the canton of Vaud is facing sustained demand, driven by its economic dynamism and high quality of life between lake and vineyards:

• The shortage index remains high, with a vacancy rate below 1%, ensuring excellent long-term value preservation for investors;
  
• Property transfer taxes in the canton of Vaud amount to 3.3% of the sale price, including cantonal and municipal taxes, to which notary fees must be added;
  
• The average price per square meter for an apartment stabilizes around CHF 14,200, with significant variations depending on exposure, lake view, and proximity to the future tramway.

Property prices in Lausanne: trends and sought-after districts

Lausanne’s topography and its terraced structure create a heterogeneous market where property value strongly depends on elevation and access to the city center.

Price per m² in the city center and Sous-Gare

Buying an apartment in the city center or near the train station ensures long-term value appreciation:

• Sous-Gare/Ouchy (1006): median price around CHF 17,500/m². This area is highly sought after for its direct lake access and residential calm;
  
• City Center (1003): prices average CHF 15,200/m². Period properties are particularly popular with urban buyers;
  
• Georgette/Florimont: prestigious district, with prices around CHF 18,000/m² for high-end properties often offering Alpine views.

Price per m² in residential areas and outskirts

The outskirts of Lausanne offer larger living spaces and a greener environment:

• Chailly/Vallon (1012): with an average price of CHF 13,800/m², this “village within the city” attracts families thanks to local shops and renowned schools;
  
• Pully (1009): highly desirable neighboring municipality, with average prices around CHF 16,200/m². Individual houses often reach very high prices, especially with lake views;
  
• Prilly/Renens: areas undergoing transformation thanks to urban development projects, with more affordable prices around CHF 11,500/m², attracting first-time buyers.

Price per m² in the heights of Lausanne

Northern districts offer a forested environment and more competitive prices:

• Le Mont-sur-Lausanne (1052): average house price reaches CHF 12,900/m². A popular alternative for buying a villa with a garden;
  
• Épalinges (1066): dynamic municipality connected by metro line M2, with a median price of CHF 13,400/m². Proximity to EHL and Biopôle supports demand;
  
• Belmont-sur-Lausanne: offers exceptional panoramic views, with prices ranging from CHF 14,000 to CHF 15,500/m² for individual properties.

Comparison of price per m² by district in 2026

What type of property should you buy in Lausanne?

A studio or 1-bedroom apartment near universities

A smart choice for rental yield. The presence of EPFL and UNIL ensures constant demand:

• Location: Malley, Renens, or near metro line M1;
  
• Key advantage: near-zero vacancy rate for small units;
  
• Financial return: estimated gross yield between 2.8% and 3.5%.

An apartment in the Plaines-du-Loup eco-district

A major project in the north of the city redefining sustainable urban living:

• Location: Blécherette area;
  
• Key advantage: Minergie-P construction standards and shared spaces;
  
• Financial return: medium-term value appreciation linked to the future M3 metro line.

A detached house in Western Lausanne

This area is experiencing strong growth thanks to infrastructure development:

• Location: municipalities of Crissier, Bussigny, or Ecublens;
  
• Key advantage: excellent road and rail connections;
  
• Financial return: stable land value appreciation.

A property to renovate with energy incentives

The canton of Vaud actively promotes ecological renovation:

• Location: buildings from the 1960s–1970s in districts such as Pontaise or Beaulieu;
  
• Key advantage: eligibility for the Buildings subsidy program;
  
• Financial return: significant increase in resale value after renovation.

How to finance a property purchase in Lausanne?

Buying property in the canton of Vaud requires careful analysis of additional costs and financing capacity.

Personal contribution and equity

Financing is based on the 20% rule:

• Hard equity: at least 10% must come from personal savings or gifts;
  
• Pension funds: the remaining 10% can be financed through early withdrawal from the 2nd pillar or 3rd pillar, subject to lender approval.

Interest rate models and strategies

The choice of mortgage depends on your profile and risk tolerance:

• Fixed rate: ideal for strict budget planning over 5, 10, or 15 years;
  
• SARON rate: allows benefiting from low money market rates, with higher volatility;
  
• Split tranches: combining different rate types to spread risk.

Acquisition costs and taxes in Vaud

Unlike Geneva, Vaud does not offer major tax reductions like Casatax, but applies fixed rates:

• Property transfer tax: 3.3% of the purchase price, payable upon land registry registration;
  
• Notary fees: approximately 1% to 1.5% for fees and mortgage registration;
  
• Overall estimate: it is advisable to set aside around 5% of the purchase price in cash.

SEO FAQ: Becoming a homeowner in Lausanne

What is the average price per square meter in Lausanne in 2026?

The average is around CHF 14,200/m² for apartments, ranging from CHF 11,500/m² to over CHF 17,500/m².

Can you use your 2nd pillar to buy property?

Yes, but at least 10% must come from non-pension personal funds.

What are the notary fees in the canton of Vaud?

Total acquisition costs are around 4.5% to 5% of the sale price.

Where should you invest for the best rental yield?

Near universities (e.g. Renens, Malley), due to strong student demand.

What is the impact of the future tramway?

The T1 tram line boosts property prices in Western Lausanne.

Where can you find properties for sale in Lausanne?

On dreamo.ch, discover a wide range of listings:

Apartments for sale in Lausanne

Houses for sale in Lausanne