Living in Ticino: Comparing Life in Lugano, Locarno, Mendrisio, and Bellinzona

The Italian-speaking canton of Ticino is one of the most attractive regions in Switzerland for expats, international families, and cross-border professionals. Thanks to its southern location, mild climate, and cultural mix of Swiss efficiency and Italian lifestyle, more and more people are considering moving to Ticino as their new home.

For those interested in relocating to Switzerland, Ticino offers a unique balance: the safety, political stability, and excellent infrastructure typical of the country, combined with Mediterranean weather, good food, and a slower pace of life. Expats moving to Ticino quickly notice the excellent healthcare system, well-regarded international schools, and the proximity to both Zurich and Milan, making it easy to stay connected with the rest of Europe.

But while the entire canton shares these advantages, each city has a distinct character and lifestyle. In this guide, we compare living in Lugano, living in Locarno, living in Mendrisio, and living in Bellinzona to help expats, professionals, and families understand which part of Ticino fits best with their needs.

Living in Lugano: cosmopolitan and international

Lugano is the largest city in Ticino and one of the best-known destinations for expats in Switzerland. It is internationally recognized for its financial industry, asset management firms, and growing digital economy. Many professionals moving to Lugano are attracted by career opportunities in finance, wealth management, and tech, while families appreciate the presence of international schools such as TASIS (The American School in Switzerland).

The lifestyle in Lugano is cosmopolitan yet relaxed. The city offers a wide range of cultural events, museums, shopping centers, luxury boutiques, and fine dining, all while surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Lugano and the Swiss Alps. Compared to Zurich or Geneva, life in Lugano is less hectic, but still offers plenty of opportunities for networking and professional growth.

Cost of living in Lugano is higher than in smaller towns of Ticino, but many expats consider it justified by the quality of services, healthcare, and safety. For international families, Lugano is especially appealing thanks to bilingual education, excellent transport connections, and a multicultural environment.

In short, living in Lugano is ideal for professionals who want a vibrant, international city with direct connections to Italy and access to the highest standards of Swiss comfort.

Living in Locarno: lake, mountains, and culture

Locarno, located on the northern shore of Lake Maggiore, is one of the most scenic towns in Ticino. Known for its Mediterranean climate and the famous Locarno Film Festival, it attracts expats, retirees, and families looking for a quieter pace of life.

Compared to Lugano, living in Locarno means embracing a more relaxed rhythm. Expats often highlight the combination of culture and nature: sunny weather, palm trees, hiking in the valleys of the Vallemaggia and Verzasca, and summer activities such as swimming or sailing on the lake. Locarno is also known for its concerts, art exhibitions, and festivals, offering a rich cultural calendar throughout the year.

The cost of living in Locarno is generally lower than Lugano, making it attractive for retirees or families seeking affordability without sacrificing lifestyle quality. Housing options range from lakeside apartments to houses in the surrounding villages, often with beautiful views.

For expats prioritizing quality of life, sunshine, and cultural richness over business opportunities, Locarno is one of the best places to live in Ticino.

Living in Mendrisio: close to Italy, family-friendly

Mendrisio, also called “Il Magnifico Borgo,” is a smaller town at the southern border of Switzerland, right next to Italy. Many expats moving to Mendrisio choose it for its family-friendly environment, good schools, and proximity to Como and Milan.

Living in Mendrisio offers the best of both worlds: the security and healthcare of Switzerland combined with easy access to the Italian lifestyle. For families, the town is attractive thanks to its safe environment, community events, and outdoor spaces. Mendrisio is also known for its vineyards, traditional festivals, and scenic hills, making it charming and authentic.

For commuters and cross-border professionals, Mendrisio is strategically located: Lugano is 20 minutes away, and Milan can be reached in less than an hour by train. Housing costs are often more affordable than in Lugano, and many expats find it a perfect compromise between Swiss quality and Italian accessibility.

In short, expat families in Mendrisio value the calm atmosphere, strong community, and the convenience of being so close to major Italian cities.

Living in Bellinzona: history and administration

Bellinzona is the capital of Ticino and the political and administrative center of the canton. Famous for its three UNESCO World Heritage castles, it offers a mix of history, tradition, and modern living.

Compared to Lugano and Locarno, living in Bellinzona is less international, but this can be an advantage for expats who want to integrate into the local community and experience authentic Swiss life. Many people working in government, law, or administration live here, giving the city a stable and professional atmosphere.

The cost of living in Bellinzona is usually lower than in Lugano, making it a popular option for expats seeking more affordable housing. Schools and healthcare services are high-quality, and the city’s central location makes it easy to travel north towards Zurich or south towards Lugano and Italy.

For those who appreciate tradition, history, and a quieter environment, Bellinzona is an excellent choice.

What Lugano, Locarno, Mendrisio, and Bellinzona have in common

While each city has its unique identity, all four share the key advantages of living in Ticino:

• A mild climate with more sunshine than most Swiss regions.

• The unique mix of Swiss quality and Italian culture.

• Safety, political stability, and excellent healthcare.

• Access to good schools, including international and bilingual education.

• Strategic proximity to Milan, Zurich, and the rest of Europe.

For expats, this means that whether they choose Lugano, Locarno, Mendrisio, or Bellinzona, they will find a welcoming environment and a high standard of living.

How to choose the right city in Ticino

The decision depends on personal priorities and lifestyle goals:

• Lugano is best for professionals, families seeking international schools, and those who want a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

• Locarno is perfect for retirees, artists, and families looking for culture and outdoor life.

• Mendrisio suits commuters, cross-border professionals, and families wanting proximity to Italy.

• Bellinzona is ideal for those seeking affordability, tradition, and closeness to the political heart of Ticino.

Relocating to Ticino with Knotted.ch

Are you considering relocating to Ticino? Whether you are thinking of moving to Lugano, relocating to Locarno, settling in Mendrisio, or living in Bellinzona, at Knotted.ch we help expats make the right choice.

Our relocation services cover everything you need: evaluating the best city for your needs, finding housing, dealing with residence permits, opening bank accounts, and integrating smoothly into life in Ticino. We guide international families, professionals, and retirees in every step of the relocation process.

Contact us today:

• WhatsApp: +41 76 771 30 22

• Email: info@knotted.ch

Whether you want the energy of Lugano, the sunshine of Locarno, the family-friendly life of Mendrisio, or the tradition of Bellinzona, we make your move to Ticino simple, smooth, and successful.