Find an Apartment in Lausanne
Housing Help for Expats
Lausanne offers a mix of lakeside living, university culture, and startup energy. With strong demand from students, researchers, and corporate expats, the housing market is highly competitive. ReloFinder helps you compare relocation providers in Lausanne and connect with the right agency. We don't deliver the services ourselves — we connect you to trusted partners.
ReloFinder is a comparison platform. We help you evaluate relocation providers and choose the right agency for your needs. We do not deliver these services ourselves.
Need Help Finding Your Lausanne Home?
Get expert support for lakeside apartments, university housing, and family neighborhoods
Our relocation partners with us and gives free consultations to users
Why Housing in Lausanne Is Challenging
University culture, lakeside appeal, and startup energy create strong housing demand
University & Research Demand
EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) and UNIL (University of Lausanne) bring thousands of international students, researchers, and academic staff annually. Student housing supply cannot meet demand, pushing students and young academics into private market apartments. Popular areas near campuses (Renens, Ecublens) see constant turnover each academic year. PhD students and postdocs often secure better apartments, creating competition with young professionals. Research grants and fellowships provide housing budgets, maintaining price pressure.
Startup & Tech Scene Growth
Lausanne's growing startup ecosystem (EPFL Innovation Park, Flon district tech companies, biotech sector) attracts young professionals and entrepreneurs. The Swiss Tech Convention Center and proximity to Geneva create international business appeal. Startup employees often prefer Lausanne Centre and Flon areas, driving up rents in trendy neighborhoods. Corporate relocations from tech companies add to housing pressure. Younger demographic competes aggressively for modern apartments near coworking spaces and vibrant nightlife.
Lakeside Premium Housing
Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) shoreline properties in Ouchy and Pully command premium rents (CHF 2,200-3,500+ for 2.5-3.5 rooms, up to CHF 6,000 for luxury lakeside). Families and corporate expats compete for these high-quality apartments with lake views, waterfront access, and excellent amenities. Limited lakefront supply means apartments rarely become available. Waiting lists exist for the best buildings. International Olympic Committee (IOC) presence in Lausanne adds diplomatic and sports organization demand for premium housing.
French-Language Barrier
Lausanne is in French-speaking Canton de Vaud. Most rental contracts, landlord communication, and administrative processes are in French. Non-French speakers struggle with dossier preparation, contract understanding, and landlord negotiations. English is less common than in Zurich or Geneva's international sectors. University students get some English support, but private market requires French or professional translation. Missing French-language nuances can disqualify applications or lead to unfavorable lease terms. Agencies provide critical French-language navigation.
Academic Year Timing Pressure
Late August through September sees intense housing competition as students arrive for EPFL/UNIL academic year. Apartments that became available over summer are snapped up immediately. New students compete against returning students upgrading housing. Families relocating for corporate jobs also target September moves for school year starts. This creates annual housing crunch with landlords receiving 15-25 applications per apartment. Non-academic relocations should avoid August-September timing when possible. Early preparation (3-4 months ahead) essential for September moves.
Expert Insight
Lausanne offers more accessible housing than Geneva or Zurich but requires French-language support and local market knowledge. Students benefit from university housing services and EPFL/UNIL networks. Corporate expats should leverage relocation agencies for French dossiers and neighborhood guidance. Search time typically 4-8 weeks with professional support, longer for lakeside premium properties. Avoid August-September peak if possible. Renens and Lausanne Centre offer better availability than Ouchy or Pully.
How Agencies Help in Lausanne
ReloFinder connects you with agencies specializing in Lausanne's French-speaking market
French-Speaking Housing Search
Comprehensive apartment search across Lausanne neighborhoods conducted in French: Ouchy (lakeside luxury), Pully (upscale residential), Chailly (quiet suburban), Lausanne Centre (student/startup hub), Renens (affordable, near EPFL), and Flon (modern, trendy). Agencies navigate French-language listings, communicate with French-speaking landlords, and understand Canton de Vaud rental customs. Access to off-market apartments through departing expats, university networks, and local connections. French fluency eliminates communication barriers that disqualify non-French speakers.
French Contract Translation & Support
Professional translation and explanation of French-language rental contracts. Clarify Swiss-French legal terminology, Canton de Vaud specific regulations, Nebenkosten calculations, notice periods (typically 3 months), deposit requirements (3 months in blocked account), rent adjustment clauses, and tenant rights. Agencies ensure you understand every contract term before signing, protecting you from unfavorable clauses or misunderstandings. French-language landlord negotiations handled professionally. Attend move-in handover (état des lieux) to document defects in French.
Student & Researcher Housing Assistance
Specialized support for EPFL and UNIL students, researchers, postdocs, and academic staff. Understand university housing systems, coordinate with EPFL/UNIL housing offices, navigate student-specific rental options near campuses (Renens, Ecublens, Dorigny), and connect with academic networks for apartment leads. Help with shared housing searches popular among students. Timing guidance for academic year moves (avoid August-September crush). Budget-conscious options for PhD students and early-career researchers. Parent coordination for international student arrivals.
Temporary Furnished Housing
Furnished temporary apartments in Lausanne (CHF 1,800-3,500/month) while searching for permanent housing. Options near universities, lakefront, or city center. Many researchers and corporate expats use temporary housing during first 1-3 months. Students often need temporary accommodation for first semester while finding permanent apartments to share. Agencies coordinate temporary and permanent housing timing, ensuring smooth transition. Advance booking essential for August-September academic year start. Flexible short-term contracts available.
Ready to Find Your Lausanne Apartment?
Get expert French-language support for lakeside, university, and family housing
Our relocation partners with us and gives free consultations to users
Lausanne Neighborhoods
Popular areas for students, researchers, families, and corporate expats
Ouchy
Lakeside, Luxury, Premium
Prestigious lakefront neighborhood with luxury apartments and waterfront living. CHF 2,200-3,500/month for 2.5-3.5 rooms, premium properties CHF 4,000-6,000+. Lake Geneva views, marina, excellent restaurants, and Olympic Museum. International atmosphere with IOC presence. Metro M2 connection to city center. Popular with families and corporate expats seeking quality of life. Limited availability; apartments rarely on market. Off-market access essential.
Renens
Affordable, Multicultural, EPFL Access
Popular neighborhood near EPFL campus with diverse international community. CHF 1,500-2,200/month for 2.5 rooms. Students, researchers, and young professionals create vibrant atmosphere. Excellent public transport (Metro M1 to EPFL, trains to Lausanne center). More affordable than city center or lakeside. High turnover due to academic population. Good value for budget-conscious expats and students. Active academic social scene.
Pully
Upscale residential suburb, families, excellent schools. CHF 2,000-3,200 for 2.5-3.5 rooms.
Chailly
Quiet suburban feel, long-term residents, peaceful. CHF 1,800-2,600 for 2.5-3.5 rooms.
Lausanne Centre
Lively, international, student-heavy, restaurants. CHF 1,700-2,500 for 2.5 rooms.
Flon
Modern, startup culture, nightlife, young professionals. CHF 1,900-2,700 for 2.5 rooms.
Your Lausanne Housing Process
Follow this proven process for finding housing in Lausanne
Define Housing Needs
Work with agency to define your profile: student (EPFL/UNIL, shared housing, budget-conscious), researcher (temporary then permanent, university proximity), family (schools, space, Pully/Chailly), or corporate expat (quality living, lakeside preference). Define budget (CHF 1,500-3,500 depending on profile), preferred neighborhoods, proximity to university/workplace, and lifestyle needs. Agency provides French-language support and Lausanne market insights. Consider academic year timing if student/researcher.
Timeline: 1 consultation call, 1-2 hours
Shortlist Districts & Viewings
Receive apartment listings for target neighborhoods (Ouchy, Pully, Renens, Centre, etc.). Schedule viewings quickly as popular apartments rent within days. Be prepared for French-language viewings; agency provides translation if needed. Renens and Centre apartments turn over frequently; lakeside properties have longer search times. Consider Metro M2 line access for commuting. Agency coordinates logistics and provides neighborhood context. Students should explore shared housing options.
Timeline: 4-8 weeks of active searching and viewings
French Dossier & Application
Complete French-language dossier with ID, residence permit, employment/university contract, salary slips or funding proof (students: scholarship letters, parental guarantees), Betreibungsregisterauszug (from Vaud or current canton), landlord references, and application forms. Agency prepares professional French documents and presents application to landlords. Explain your profile (stable researcher, long-term family, responsible student) to improve approval odds. All communication in French handled by agency.
Timeline: Same-day or next-day application for competitive properties
Lease Review & Translation
Review and translate French lease contract. Clarify Canton de Vaud specific terms, Nebenkosten calculations, 3-month notice period, deposit requirements (3 months in blocked account), tenant rights, and rent adjustment clauses. Attend move-in handover (état des lieux) to document defects in French and protect deposit. Agency ensures full understanding before signing. Negotiate terms if possible (rare in Lausanne but worth attempting for longer leases or premium properties).
Timeline: 1-2 weeks from approval to handover
Municipality Registration
Register with Lausanne municipality (Service de la population) or commune (Renens, Pully, etc.) within 14 days of move-in. Set up utilities, internet, Swiss health insurance (mandatory), and transport passes (Mobilis for Canton de Vaud, Swiss Half-Fare Card). Students register with EPFL/UNIL as well. Agency provides ongoing support for French administrative processes, service providers, banking setup, and community integration. Connect with expat and university networks.
Timeline: Complete within 14 days of move-in
Key Facts for Lausanne Housing
University Demand
EPFL & UNIL students/researchers drive housing market
Average Rent (2.5-room)
CHF 1,800-2,400/month + Nebenkosten CHF 150-250
Lakefront Ouchy
Luxury living: CHF 2,200-3,500+ with lake views
French Contracts
French-language dossiers and contracts required
Student-Friendly Renens
Affordable, near EPFL, international community
Temporary Housing
CHF 1,800-3,500/month furnished for researchers
Frequently Asked Questions
How competitive is the Lausanne housing market?
Lausanne's housing market is competitive due to strong demand from EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), UNIL (University of Lausanne), and corporate relocations. Students, researchers, and young professionals create constant pressure on housing stock. Apartments near universities (Renens, Lausanne Centre) and lakefront areas (Ouchy, Pully) are especially competitive with 8-20 applications per listing. However, Lausanne offers more availability than Geneva or Zurich, with search times typically 4-8 weeks with agency support.
What are the best neighborhoods for expats in Lausanne?
Best Lausanne neighborhoods for expats: Ouchy (lakeside luxury, international atmosphere, premium dining), Pully (upscale residential, families, excellent schools), Chailly (quiet suburban, long-term residents, peaceful), Lausanne Centre (lively, international, students, restaurants), Renens (multicultural, affordable, near EPFL/UNIL), and Flon (modern, startup culture, nightlife). Consider proximity to workplace, international schools, and Metro M2 line. Lakefront areas command premium prices; Renens offers better value for students and young professionals.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Ouchy or Pully?
Ouchy (lakefront Lausanne): CHF 2,200-3,500/month for 2.5-3.5 rooms plus Nebenkosten CHF 150-250. Premium lakeside apartments with views can reach CHF 4,000-6,000 for larger units. Pully (upscale suburb): CHF 2,000-3,200/month for 2.5-3.5 rooms. Both areas popular with families and corporate expats seeking quality living near the lake with excellent amenities. More affordable alternatives: Renens CHF 1,500-2,200, Lausanne Centre CHF 1,700-2,500, Chailly CHF 1,800-2,600 for similar apartment sizes.
Are Lausanne rental contracts in French?
Yes, most Lausanne rental contracts are in French as Lausanne is in French-speaking Switzerland (Canton de Vaud). Landlords typically expect French-language application dossiers and communication. Non-French speakers face challenges without translation and cultural support. Relocation agencies provide essential French-language services: dossier preparation, contract translation, landlord communication, and legal term explanation. Some landlords accept English for international students/researchers, but French fluency or professional support significantly improves application success rates.
Is student housing available for EPFL and UNIL?
Yes, both EPFL and UNIL offer student housing but demand far exceeds supply. EPFL provides some on-campus housing at its campus in Ecublens/Renens. UNIL has limited dormitory options. Most students search private market apartments in Renens (near EPFL, affordable, good transport), Lausanne Centre (lively, social), or shared accommodations. Student housing agencies and university services help with searches. Many students use temporary housing for first 1-2 months while securing permanent apartments. Apply early (3-6 months ahead) for university housing; private market searches typically take 4-8 weeks.
Are temporary furnished apartments common in Lausanne?
Yes, temporary furnished housing is common in Lausanne due to EPFL/UNIL researchers, corporate expats, and students. Furnished apartments cost CHF 1,800-3,500/month depending on size and location. Many available near universities, lakefront, or city center. Corporate housing providers cater to short-term assignments. Students often use temporary housing during first semester while finding permanent apartments. Agencies coordinate temporary and permanent housing timing. Typical temporary stays: 1-3 months during permanent search. Advance booking recommended, especially August-September (academic year start).
Trusted Lausanne Housing Partners
Expert agencies with French-language and university housing support
Prime Relocation
🏆 Preferred PartnerComprehensive Lausanne housing support with French-language services, lakeside property access (Ouchy, Pully), university housing expertise (EPFL/UNIL), and student/researcher relocation specialization. Prime Relocation navigates Canton de Vaud rental market and French administrative processes.
Our relocation partners work with us and provide free consultations
Other Trusted Lausanne Specialists
Lodge Relocation
Lausanne market expertise with French-language support and lakeside property access
Auris Relocation
Comprehensive relocation services helping expats find homes in Lausanne region
ReloFinder is a Comparison Platform
We help you evaluate relocation providers and choose the right agency for your needs based on services offered, expertise, and client reviews. We do not deliver these services ourselves — we connect you with trusted agencies who specialize in Swiss relocations.
Ready to Find Your New Home in Lausanne?
Get expert French-language support for lakeside luxury, university housing, or family neighborhoods. Our trusted agencies provide comprehensive relocation services.
✓ French-language support • ✓ EPFL/UNIL expertise • ✓ Lakeside Ouchy access