City life or country life: Where is buying real estate more worthwhile?

Buying Real Estate: City or Countryside – Where Is the Better Investment?

Buying property is one of life’s biggest decisions. But which location offers more value – the vibrant city or the peaceful countryside? In this article, we compare returns, quality of life, infrastructure, and future trends.

Real Estate in the City: High Returns and Strong Infrastructure

Urban properties offer a number of advantages that make them attractive to both investors and homeowners. One of the biggest benefits is the high return they often promise. Due to high population density and consistent demand, rental prices in urban centers like Zurich, Basel, or Geneva are usually much higher than in rural areas.

Cities also benefit from well-developed infrastructure:

• Public transportation
• Schools and universities
• Healthcare services
• Shopping and leisure opportunities

These factors not only increase quality of life, but also boost property values.

Living in the Countryside: Peace, Nature, and Space

A house in the countryside offers something priceless: quality of life through tranquility and natural surroundings. Lower population density, direct access to forests, lakes, or fields, and a slower pace of life appeal to many – especially families or remote workers.

Other advantages include:

• More affordable property prices
• Larger living space for your budget
• Stronger local communities and social cohesion

Even if rural infrastructure can’t match that of cities, many regions now offer good connectivity and essential services.

What Influences Your Location Choice?

The decision to buy real estate in the city or the countryside depends on several personal factors:

• Life situation: Families often prefer nature, while singles or young couples enjoy urban life.
• Work setup: Commuting time, remote work options, employer location.
• Budget: City apartments tend to be more expensive, while the countryside often offers more value.
• Personal preferences: Noise levels, leisure activities, social life, space requirements.

📌 Request a location analysis – we’ll help you find the ideal real estate location.
City or countryside: our experts offer tailored, competent advice.

Property Prices: City vs. Countryside Comparison

Swiss property prices vary greatly by location. In urban centers, square meter prices are often twice as high as in rural areas. While city properties promise higher returns, the countryside offers more space and nature at a more accessible cost.

Examples:

• Apartment in Zurich: over CHF 14,000/m²
• House in rural Bern: under CHF 7,000/m²

However, rural properties may be more difficult to resell due to lower demand.

Quality of Life: Urban Buzz vs. Country Charm

Quality of life is a key factor when choosing a property.

City:

• Culture, dining, and events
• Short commutes
• Vibrant social life

Countryside:

• Nature, peace, and relaxation
• More indoor and outdoor space
• Less stress and noise

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lifestyle and personal goals.

Future Trends: Where Are People Moving?

The pandemic and growing digitalization have accelerated the trend toward country living. Remote work makes living outside the city more attractive. Still, cities remain appealing for their infrastructure and job opportunities.

Key trends:

• More remote work = increased rural migration
• Sustainability and energy efficiency matter more
• Rising city prices encourage alternative housing options on the outskirts

Conclusion: City or Countryside – What’s Right for You?

City or countryside – both have their pros and cons. If you’re looking for high returns, urban convenience, and short commutes, the city is ideal. If you value peace, space, and nature, the countryside might be your perfect fit.

📞 Get your free consultation now – together we’ll find the right property for you.
Benefit from our in-depth market knowledge in both city and countryside.