Zurich’s real estate industry is seeing dramatic changes. For one, foreign investment is on the rise, while apartment sizes are shrinking as urbanization reshapes the city’s housing landscape. The number of foreign nationals purchasing property in Zurich increased by 6% in 2024, which is a clear reflection of the city’s appeal as a stable and lucrative investment destination. As one of Switzerland’s most dynamic financial hubs, Zurich attracts a diverse international community, with foreign nationals making up 19.1% of the city’s residents. This steady inflow of expatriates and international investors has fueled demand for real estate, particularly in prime districts and high-end residential areas. One key driver behind the surge in foreign purchases is migration-driven population growth. With Zurich offering strong employment opportunities and a high quality of life, many foreign professionals and investors see property acquisition as a long-term investment. However, purchasing real estate in Switzerland is no simple task for non-residents. Strict regulations and quotas govern foreign ownership, requiring buyers to obtain approval before making a purchase. These limitations have not deterred investors, as many foreign buyers either acquire legal residency or work within existing legal structures to gain ownership. The trend of downsizing apartments is quickly gaining momentum in Zurich, with newly built apartments now averaging 85 square meters in size. Between 2006 and 2010, apartments in Zurich were significantly larger, averaging around 96 square meters. However, as urbanization accelerates and space becomes a premium commodity, compact living spaces have become the norm. This trend is not unique to Zurich but reflects a broader shift across Switzerland. By 2022, the national average for apartment sizes stood at 99 square meters, indicating a continued move toward smaller living spaces. As demand for housing grows, developers are prioritizing efficiency and affordability, leading to smaller apartment layouts.