Commentary: High earners have no place in city apartments – Zurich needs stricter rental rules

Zurich's municipal housing, intended to be affordable, is increasingly occupied by high-earners, according to a recent analysis of 7,700 units. The review revealed that 18.4% of households in these city-owned apartments exceed the income threshold, earning more than six times the annual rent. This situation is deemed unacceptable, as it blocks access for individuals genuinely in need of affordable housing.

The city's goal is to have one-third of its housing stock be non-profit by 2050, leading to increased municipal real estate investments. While some flexibility for tenants whose income rises over time is acknowledged, the current widespread non-compliance is seen as a failure of enforcement. The analysis suggests that over a thousand municipal apartments could be occupied by millionaires without immediate consequence.

Currently, the city council will only actively address the issue in 2028, and only if subsequent analyses continue to show over 15% of households exceeding income limits. This delayed response is criticized as untenable given the severe housing shortage and the significant taxpayer funds, including 600 million Swiss francs allocated this year for property acquisitions, invested in these properties. Critics call for immediate and consistent enforcement of existing rules.