The Cheapest Places to Live Near Lucerne, Switzerland: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding the ideal place to live in Switzerland, especially near Lucerne, requires careful consideration of various factors, including housing costs, commuting options, and overall quality of life. This article explores some of the most affordable areas around Lucerne, offering a detailed look at their advantages and disadvantages.

Affordable Options Near Lucerne

Several towns and villages offer a more budget-friendly lifestyle compared to Lucerne itself. Here are some of the most notable areas:

1. Emmen

Emmen is a short distance from Lucerne and offers relatively affordable housing. Its proximity to the city ensures good public transport connections, making daily commuting a breeze. Whether you are looking for a more urban setting or a quieter neighborhood, Emmen provides a balanced approach.

2. Kriens

Located on the outskirts of Lucerne, Kriens is another option with lower rents compared to the city center. It also provides easy access to Lucerne via public transport, making it a convenient choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of living near Lucerne without paying inflated city-center prices.

3. Horw

Horw is a town that lies close to Lucerne and offers a more rural environment. It tends to have lower housing costs while still providing a quick commute to Lucerne. For those who value a combination of affordability and easy access to urban amenities, Horw is an excellent choice.

4. Menzingen

A bit further out, Menzingen is known for its scenic views and quieter lifestyle. While it might offer cheaper accommodation options, the commute to Lucerne will be longer. For those seeking a more peaceful environment, Menzingen can be an attractive option.

5. Rotkreuz

Located in the Canton of Zug, Rotkreuz has more affordable living options and good train connections to Lucerne. This makes it a practical choice for those who prefer a more convenient commute but still want to enjoy the benefits of a budget-friendly housing market.

Financial Considerations

When choosing a place to live, it is crucial to consider not just rent prices but also transportation costs and the overall lifestyle you desire. Public transport in Switzerland is efficient, so even towns a bit farther away can still be practical for commuting. However, the exact cost will depend on your income, as tax rates vary from town to town. As a general guideline, rural areas tend to be cheaper but have limited housing options.

For those interested in a more budget-friendly living arrangement, some unconventional options exist. While the idea of living 'under a bridge' is appealing due to the absence of rent, there are practical considerations to keep in mind. However, such options might not be suitable for all lifestyles and are highly dependent on the local authorities' regulations. For a more traditional approach, websites like can help you find available properties and provide detailed information on tax implications based on your earnings.

Real Estate and Transportation Costs

Flats in towns and cities around Lucerne are generally expensive, but in many villages, the rent is lower. To maximize savings, consider the cost of public transport in addition to the rent. For example, an approximate cost for essential amenities (heating, warm water, cable television, lift, electricity, and a janitor if there is one) is included in the rent. Regarding public transport, the SBB Swiss Railways website provides detailed information. A Second Class ticket for a year costs about CHF 3,860, approximately GBP 3,120 or USD 4,160. The Global Accessibility (GA) pass allows travel on most trains, trams, and buses, with Swiss trains being 90% on time, clean, and well-maintained.

As a personal experience, traveling under the GA from Solothurn to almost everywhere in Switzerland has been consistently reliable, with only two missed connections due to late trains, which were exceptionally late by three hours.

Overall, while Lucerne and its surroundings offer many advantages, careful planning and consideration of all factors will help you find the most suitable and affordable place to live.