In Altstetten, Zurich, the disparity in housing prices underscores the ongoing crisis in the city’s real estate market. The situation raises concerns about affordability and access to housing in the rapidly developing district.

A private landlord is offering a 2.5-room apartment of 41 square meters for an astonishing 3,895 francs per month. In contrast, a newly constructed 4.5-room apartment in the Letzi housing estate is available for only 1,920 francs, providing 95 square meters of space. This significant difference highlights the challenges many residents face in finding affordable living options.

Daniel Leupi, Zurich’s long-serving head of finance, has garnered attention for his policies, which include:

• Offering discounted apartments to secure votes
• High rents for larger apartments in his own properties, reaching up to 5,000 francs

Critics contend that these strategies have worsened the housing shortage. In response to the crisis, the private sector is planning to convert vacant office spaces into residential units, which may offer some relief. However, concerns regarding the sustainability of housing solutions persist in a city where the divide between the privileged and the rest continues to grow.

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