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Key facts:
- City life is particularly popular with 25-30 year olds and the over 66s.
- Apartments are becoming much more popular than detached houses.
- Owners in the countryside can take advantage of new opportunities by selling when they are older.
For a long time, the detached house in the countryside was considered the epitome of the Swiss dream home. But the 2025 Dream Home Study shows a trend reversal: 25 to 30-year-olds and the over-66s in particular are moving back to the cities. Two generations with different needs but a common goal – living in the city center.
Two generations, one wish: why the city is in demand again
While middle-aged people continue to dream of owning their own home in the countryside, young adults and senior citizens are rediscovering the advantages of the city.
- Young buyers (20-35 years) are looking for proximity to jobs, education, public transport and leisure activities. For them, the city means flexibility, mobility and an active social environment.
- Older owners (65+) want comfort, good medical care and less nursing care. Moving into a centrally located, barrier-free apartment makes everyday life easier and offers security.
Data from the Federal Statistical Office confirms this trend: In cities such as Zurich, Basel and Lausanne, the proportion of older households has risen in recent years, while the desire for urban living has overtaken the search for single-family homes among 20 to 35-year-olds.
Apartment instead of house – the pragmatic dream home
Parallel to the return to the cities, another change can be seen: apartments are gaining in importance. According to the Wohntraumstudie, the preference for apartments rose from 20% to 34% among 25 to 30-year-olds in particular, and even to 37% among the over-65s.
The reasons are pragmatic:
- Less effort: Smaller areas mean lower maintenance costs.
- Comfort: Modern apartment buildings offer elevators, common rooms and sustainable energy solutions.
- Market reality: In view of rising prices and a shortage of supply, the apartment is becoming the only realistic option for many.
Wüest Partner ‘s real estate market analyses also show that the value of urban apartments has risen at an above-average rate in recent years. Properties in good public transport locations in particular have proven to be resistant to crises.
What this means for owners in rural areas
For many owners, the question arises at a certain age: is the big house in the country still suitable?
A sale before or shortly after retirement creates liquidity, reduces fixed costs and makes it possible to move into an age-appropriate home. Carrying out a property valuation at an early stage creates planning security and allows you to realistically assess market opportunities. Tax aspects such as imputed rental value or future investments should also be factored into the decision.
Those who plan in good time not only benefit financially, but also gain quality of life and flexibility in old age.
Opportunities for investors: understanding and exploiting urban demand
The demand for urban living space is not only driven by students and young families, but also increasingly by senior citizens. This is a long-term trend for investors and urban developers:
- Compact, well-connected apartments have particularly good prospects.
- Mixed forms such as multi-generation houses or age-appropriate cluster apartments are gaining in importance.
- Sustainable renovations in existing properties can also boost demand.
According to UBS Real Estate Focus 2025, a further increase in demand is expected in urban centers, while peripheral locations will remain attractive, especially for families.
Conclusion: City as a place of the future – not just for the next generation
The figures show that city living is back on trend – driven by the youngest and the oldest. Owners in the countryside can use this development as an opportunity, while investors are tapping into new potential in the urban housing market.
Whether for a first purchase or a late move: the city is becoming a place of the future for all generations.
FAQ
What are the advantages of a city apartment in old age?
A city apartment offers accessibility, short distances to medical services and reduces the need for care. In addition, fixed costs and maintenance risks are reduced, which noticeably increases the quality of everyday life.
Why are young buyers drawn back to the cities?
For young female buyers, short distances to work, education and leisure are important. Good public transport connections and a wide range of social and cultural activities make the city particularly attractive.
What opportunities do owners in rural areas have?
Anyone selling their property today benefits from stable prices in the surrounding area and high demand for city apartments. An early property valuation helps to determine the right time to sell.
How can investors benefit from the trend?
Investors are focusing on compact, centrally located apartments, sustainable renovations and innovative forms of housing such as multi-generation homes. This allows them to appeal to both young buyers and older target groups in the long term.
Data are without guarantee. The information on these Internet pages has been carefully researched. Nevertheless, no liability can be assumed for the accuracy of the information provided.