Moving to Ticino, Switzerland in 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Internationals
Everything you need to know about moving to Ticino - visas, housing, cost of living, social life, and community for internationals in Lugano, Bellinzona, and Locarno.
Four years ago, I arrived in Ticino with my husband, a curious cat, an adventurous dog, and a lot of questions.
How do you find a home when everything's in Italian? Where do you meet people when you know no one? And is it really true that life here feels like Italy - but runs on Swiss efficiency?
If you're thinking about moving to Ticino - whether to Lugano, Bellinzona, Locarno, or one of the peaceful lakeside villages - this article will help you understand what life here is really like.
This is not a relocation manual (you'll find that in our Guides section), but a human, insider look at what to expect when starting a new life in this beautiful corner of Switzerland.
Why People Move to Ticino
Ticino is Switzerland's only fully Italian-speaking canton, where palm trees meet the Alps.
Many internationals choose it for:
Mild climate - over 2,300 hours of sunshine per year
Cultural mix - Italian lifestyle with Swiss reliability
Strategic location - quick access to Milan, Zurich, and Lake Como
Quality of life - clean, safe, family-friendly, with excellent healthcare and education
Business opportunities – especially in finance, tourism, and international trade
According to Ticino Turismo, over 40% of residents in Lugano were born outside Switzerland - meaning you'll never be the only newcomer in town.
Where to Live in Ticino
Each part of Ticino has a unique rhythm. Here's a quick overview:
Lugano - The cosmopolitan heart
The largest city in the canton, Lugano offers a vibrant cultural scene, international schools, and many English-speaking professionals. Perfect if you love lakeside life with city comforts.
Bellinzona - The capital of history
Known for its medieval castles (UNESCO heritage), Bellinzona offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle. Ideal for families or those who prefer a slower pace.
Locarno & Ascona - Lakeside charm
Beautiful towns by Lake Maggiore, famous for film festivals and art. Popular with digital nomads, creatives, and retirees seeking sunshine and tranquility.
Mendrisio & Southern Ticino - Gateway to Italy
Close to Milan and Como, offering affordable housing and cross-border job opportunities.
Before You Move: What to Prepare
Moving to Ticino means navigating both Swiss regulations and Italian culture.
Here's what to consider before you arrive:
Permits & Visas: Start with the Residency & Permit Guide. EU citizens can move more easily, but non-EU citizens need a job or specific visa type.
Housing: Check our Housing & Renting Guide for local agencies and what documents landlords expect.
Health Insurance: Mandatory in Switzerland - compare plans in our Cost of Living Calculator.
Language: While English is widely spoken, learning Italian is key for integration.
Life After Arrival
Once you've landed, daily life unfolds smoothly - but differently from what many expect.
Here are some quick cultural insights:
Languages: Italian dominates, but many speak English and German in business
Working culture: Punctuality is sacred, although less than inner Switzerland. Meetings start on time, and deadlines are respected
Shops close early: Most stores shut by 18:30 and on Sundays they are closed -plan your shopping ahead!
Social life: People can seem reserved at first, but consistent participation in local events changes everything
Want to meet others? Check out our Events calendar - from coffee mornings to networking aperitifs - and connect instantly with other internationals.
Cost of Living in Ticino
Compared to Zurich or Geneva, Ticino offers a slightly lower cost of living - though still Swiss-level prices.
Here's a snapshot (2025 averages):
Expense | Average Monthly Cost (CHF) |
|---|---|
1-bedroom apartment in Lugano | 1,200–1,800 |
Groceries (per person) | 400–600 |
Public transport pass | 70–120 |
Health insurance | 300–400 |
Italian course | 250- 400 |
Coffee on the lake promenade ☕ | 3.80 |
Use our Living Calculator to estimate your personalized monthly budget.
Building a Community
One of the biggest challenges for me was loneliness - especially when you don't yet speak Italian.
That's why I created Internationals in Ticino, a community of over 5,000 members online and in person.
I started to organize social brunches, group drinks, ladies' get-togethers, and business networking events - all designed to help me and all of us build friendships and find belonging.
You can join our next event directly from the Events section or explore all categories (social, family, networking) here.
Resources for Newcomers
To make your transition easier, start with these pages:
Relocation Guide - step-by-step checklist
Business Directory - English- and Italian-speaking professionals in Ticino
Events Calendar - community and networking opportunities
Living Calculator - plan your budget
Conclusion: Your New Chapter Starts Here
Moving to Ticino is more than a relocation - it's a lifestyle change.
It's waking up to mountain views, sipping espresso by the lake, and knowing you're building a life where people value both work and leisure.
Your journey doesn't have to be lonely.
Explore our community, connect with local businesses that speak your language, and use our guides to make every step easier.
Benvenuti a casa - welcome home to Ticino. 💛
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is it like to live in Ticino as an expat?
- Peaceful, friendly, and beautifully sunny. It combines the charm of Italy with Swiss organization and safety. You'll find a vibrant international community, excellent public services, and stunning natural beauty.
- Is Ticino expensive to live in?
- It's cheaper than Zurich or Geneva but still has high Swiss living costs. Housing is the main expense, ranging from 1,400-1,800 CHF for a one-bedroom apartment in Lugano. Use our Cost Calculator to plan your budget.
- Do I need to speak Italian to live in Ticino?
- Not necessarily at first, but learning Italian opens many doors and helps integrate socially and professionally. Many internationals and businesses speak English, especially in Lugano, but Italian is essential for daily life and building deeper connections.
- Can I work remotely from Ticino?
- Yes. Many internationals work remotely thanks to good internet infrastructure and proximity to Milan and Zurich. Ticino offers an excellent quality of life for digital nomads and remote workers.
- How can I meet people in Ticino?
- Through community events like our Internationals in Ticino meetups, volunteering locally, joining language exchanges, or participating in sports and cultural activities. Our Events Calendar lists regular social gatherings designed specifically for internationals.