Are you looking for an apartment and plan to move to Geneva? Then it will be a great help if you read this article. To give you a comprehensive overview of the housing market in Geneva, we have put together some important tips for your apartment search. You will also find out which portals and providers are the quickest ways to find an apartment.
The Geneva housing market
The Swiss real estate market remains extremely tight in 2024. According to data from the Federal Statistical Office, there were 51,974 vacant housing units in Switzerland as of June 1st, a decrease of 2,791 available units compared to 2023, and 6,731 fewer than in 2022. The vacancy rate in Switzerland thus stands at 1.08%, its lowest level since 2014.
In Geneva, the situation is particularly concerning, with a vacancy rate of only 0.58% in 2024, the lowest in Switzerland, tied with Zurich. However, the city has numerous ongoing real estate projects, and although the situation remains very difficult, improvements are visible. In 2024, the number of available housing units reached 1,744, an increase of 124 compared to 2023 and 315 compared to 2022. Thus, despite slow progress over the past ten years, the overall trend remains positive.
Evolution of the vacancy rate in Geneva – 2024 Data
Which real estate platforms to use in Geneva?
The internet offers a wealth of opportunities for apartment hunting in Geneva. With a variety of real estate platforms available, it’s not uncommon to find the same property listed across multiple sites. Below is a list of the most popular platforms for apartment searches:
Many of these platforms allow you to create a personalized profile. By tailoring your profile to your specific search criteria, you’ll receive instant email notifications when a listing that fits your preferences becomes available.
To avoid being swamped by countless listings, be sure to use filters such as location, price range, and apartment size to refine your search.
Which neighborhood to live in Geneva?
In Geneva, several neighborhoods stand out for their unique characteristics. For affordable housing, Charmilles, Servette, and Saint-Jean are good options. Charmilles offers a variety of housing options and excellent public transport access, while Servette is lively and close to the city center. Saint-Jean, with its family-friendly atmosphere, provides moderate rents and green spaces.
On the other hand, Eaux-Vives, Champel, and Petit-Saconnex are more expensive. Eaux-Vives is attractive for its lake views and high quality of life, while Champel is an upscale area with luxury buildings. Petit-Saconnex appeals to expatriates due to its proximity to international organizations.
For a vibrant atmosphere, Plainpalais, Carouge, and Pâquis are the places to be. Plainpalais is dynamic with its market and events, Carouge offers a friendly village-like atmosphere, and Pâquis is lively, especially in the evening, with many bars and restaurants.
Geneva’s different neighborhoods
What steps should you take once you’ve found an apartment in Geneva?
You are interested in a flat: now what?
Contact the real estate agency or the owner of the property in question and arrange a flat viewing. Be prepared for the visit and bring your application file containing an extract from the register of debtors, a cover letter and a copy of your identity card. Check whether you have a rental application form on the platform to fill in and submit with your application.
How to stand out to get an apartment?
- Social Media Groups
Searching for an apartment on social media can help you spot available properties before they are officially listed online. Join community groups to be among the first to apply.
- Perfect Timing
It’s not uncommon to see queues of dozens of people for the same apartment. Be proactive: apply quickly, send an email as soon as possible, prepare all your documents for the viewing, arrive early, and thank the landlord the same evening. This will help keep you at the top of their list!
- Leverage Your Network
Don’t hesitate to tap into your network to find an apartment in Geneva. Let your friends, colleagues, and neighbors know you’re looking, as Geneva is a small city where everyone knows each other.
