Moving to Lugano: Best Neighbourhoods for Families, Singles & Retirees

Choosing where to live is one of the most exciting parts of relocating to Switzerland. In Lugano, every district has its own soul: lakeside promenades buzzing with cafés, leafy hills where villas overlook the water, and quiet streets where neighbours greet each other by name. For expats, understanding Lugano neighbourhoods means more than finding a place to sleep — it’s about matching your lifestyle with the right corner of Ticino.

Whether you’re moving with children, starting a career, or planning a relaxed retirement, Lugano offers areas that blend Swiss comfort with Italian warmth. Here’s a detailed look at the best options for families, young professionals, and retirees, plus insights on housing availability and prices.

Neighbourhoods for Families

Families settling in Lugano often look for space, good schools, and safe places to play. Several districts meet these needs while keeping you close to shops, sports clubs, and cultural life.

Breganzona is a perennial favourite. Tucked on a gentle hill just west of the centre, it has a village feel with bakeries, playgrounds, and a lively community centre. Public schools are within walking distance, and parents appreciate the easy drive to international campuses or Montessori-style programmes scattered around Ticino. Housing here ranges from roomy apartments in small buildings to semi-detached homes with gardens, perfect for weekend barbecues.

North of the city, Pregassona combines residential calm with quick bus links downtown. Its tree-lined streets and family restaurants make it easy to integrate, and children enjoy sports fields and swimming pools nearby. Prices are slightly lower than in central Lugano, allowing you to rent a spacious three-bedroom flat or consider buying a modern townhouse.

For those seeking an upscale environment, Collina d’Oro offers sweeping lake views, elegant villas, and private schools. It feels almost rural yet remains ten minutes by car from Lugano’s heart. Families who prioritise outdoor living love the walking paths, chestnut woods, and sunshine that define this side of Ticino.

Neighbourhoods for Young Professionals

If you’re moving to Lugano for work or study, you may prefer lively streets, good transport, and opportunities to network after hours. The city centre itself is compact and vibrant, filled with boutiques, wine bars, and cultural venues. Living here means you can walk to offices, co-working hubs, and the main station — ideal for those commuting to Milan or Zurich.

On the southern edge of town, Paradiso has an urban buzz with a hint of holiday spirit. High-rise apartments gaze over the lake, and the promenade invites joggers at sunrise and aperitivi at sunset. Rental prices are higher than average, but many expats value the atmosphere and proximity to gyms, cafés, and ferry stops.

For a balance between city and residential comfort, Cassarate is worth exploring. Close to the university and the river park, it offers bike paths, trendy eateries, and easy access to buses heading up to Monte Brè. Young professionals appreciate its relaxed vibe and slightly lower rents compared with Paradiso or the old town.

Another area gaining attention is Massagno, a quick walk uphill from the centre. Once mainly local, it now attracts start-up staff and students thanks to new apartment blocks and a growing café scene. The train station nearby makes regional commuting straightforward.

Neighbourhoods for Retirees

Retirees moving to Lugano often seek tranquillity, access to healthcare, and a pleasant climate. Lugano’s mild winters and long sunny days make it one of Ticino’s favourite retirement spots, and several districts cater beautifully to a slower rhythm.

Castagnola, east of the city, is a serene enclave framed by the lake and Monte Brè. Its elegant residences, flowered balconies, and lakeside walks create an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Public transport connects residents quickly to hospitals and shopping areas, while local cafés offer the chance to socialise without leaving the neighbourhood.

For those who love countryside touches, Carona — a village above the city — charms with stone houses, terraced gardens, and panoramic trails. Although slightly farther from hospitals, it’s only fifteen minutes by car from Lugano and offers pure peace.

Some retirees choose the sunny slopes of Collina d’Oro, where historic hamlets meet modern apartments with lifts and terraces. Proximity to clinics and a network of home-care services make it practical for senior life, while the views across Ticino’s valleys are breathtaking.

Housing Availability & Prices

Housing supply in Lugano reflects its popularity with both locals and expats. Rentals are common across all profiles, while purchases depend on budget and residence status.

In 2025, a one-bedroom flat in areas like Cassarate or Massagno rents for about CHF 1,400–1,700 per month. Paradiso and lakeside addresses can climb to CHF 2,000–2,400 for similar size, especially with balconies or parking. Spacious family apartments in Breganzona or Pregassona range between CHF 2,200 and 3,000, while Collina d’Oro homes with gardens often exceed CHF 3,500.

Buying property is possible for most residents with a B or C permit in Ticino. Entry-level apartments start around CHF 6,000 per square metre in Massagno or Pregassona, while prime spots such as Castagnola or lakeside Paradiso reach CHF 9,000–11,000. Detached houses or villas can cost from CHF 1.2 million upwards, depending on plot size and view.

Competition for high-quality rentals means acting fast when you find a match. Prepare documents — proof of income, residence permit, references — before visiting, and consider professional help for translations or lease reviews.

Talk with a Relocation Advisor

Lugano’s variety is part of its charm: from bustling Paradiso to tranquil Castagnola, every district lets you experience a different shade of Ticino. Deciding where to settle depends on how you want to live — and sometimes a local perspective makes all the difference.

📲 WhatsApp: +41 76 771 30 22

📧 Email: info@knotted.ch

Talk with a relocation advisor to explore Lugano neighbourhoods, plan viewings, and understand housing rules for expats. With guidance tailored to your profile — family, single, or retiree — you’ll find the corner of Lugano that truly feels like home.