Cooperative Housing in Canton Zurich – Key Facts & How-tos

Canton Zurich is home to ≈70 000 cooperative apartments, supplied by 261 non-profit developers. That means roughly one in five households can already benefit from the cost-rent principle, paying rents that average 25 % below market level.

Why consider a cooperative (“Genossenschaftswohnung”)?

• Stable, below-market rents thanks to the non-profit, cost-rent model.
• Long-term security of tenure and community-oriented neighbourhoods.
• High ecological standards – many new builds meet 2 000-Watt or Minergie-P targets.

Largest cooperatives in the canton

The five biggest players are ABZ (>5 000 units), ASIG (~2 800), FGZ (~2 300), BG Zurlinden (~2 100) and GEWOBAG (~2 050). Each runs its own application process – check their sites or our cooperative overview for details.

Application tips

1. Create a search alert above to get instant e-mail or WhatsApp notices.
2. Prepare a complete application dossier (extract from the debt register, proof of income, personal letter).
3. Join cooperatives early; some accept members before a flat becomes free, improving your chances in internal lotteries.

Did you know…?

With 1.62 million inhabitants, Zurich is Switzerland's most populous canton and continues to grow by >1 % per year – one reason demand for affordable cooperative housing stays high.

Further resources

• Housing statistics – availability, price indices
• Market overview & tips
• FAQ on cooperative apartments