Mortgage rates Switzerland 2026: Historical development and forecast

Mortgage rates in Switzerland have fallen significantly since the beginning of 2024. 10-year fixed-rate mortgages have dropped from the peak in October 2023 (average 3.04%) to around 1.65%. SARON mortgages follow the Swiss reference rate, which has also been at a historically low level since the SNB cut to 0.00% in September 2025. This statistic shows the development since 2012 by term, with current market prices from all recorded providers and forecasts for 2026.

How have mortgage rates developed since 2012?

Interest rate levels in Switzerland reached a historic low in 2015 — the SNB introduced negative interest rates (-0.75%), and 10-year fixed-rate mortgages fell below 1.40%. From 2018 to 2021, rates stagnated before the global inflation wave in 2022–2023 triggered a rapid rise: 10-year mortgages climbed to over 3.0% in October 2023. Since 2024, they have been falling again, currently around 1.65% at the median.

What is driving current mortgage rates?

Fixed-rate mortgage rates are guided by the capital market — specifically by swap rates for the respective term. These rates reflect inflation and interest rate expectations for the future. SARON mortgages follow the daily reference rate, which is closely linked to the SNB policy rate. The SNB currently keeps the policy rate at 0.00% and signals a stable policy for 2026 with moderate adjustments depending on inflation developments.

Which term is currently worthwhile?

The yield curve is slightly upward sloping in 2026: 2-year mortgages are at 1.30%, 5-year at 1.55%, 10-year at 1.65% and 15-year at around 1.95%. Those seeking planning certainty fix for 10–15 years. Those speculating on further rate cuts choose SARON or short terms. A mixed strategy (e.g. 50% SARON + 50% 10-year fixed) spreads the interest rate change risk.

How do providers differ?

Cantonal banks and insurers are currently often 10–20 basis points cheaper than major banks (UBS, Credit Suisse). Online mortgage brokers (e.g. Hypoplus, Hypotheke.ch) consolidate several providers and can be 5–15 basis points below direct offers. Within the same bank, the individual rate varies by 20–40 basis points depending on loan-to-value, affordability and banking relationship.

What does this mean for buyers in 2026?

Anyone financing a property in 2026 benefits from a historically low interest rate environment. An CHF 800'000 mortgage fixed for 10 years currently costs around CHF 13'200 in interest per year — compared with around CHF 24'000 at the 2023 peak. Strategy recommendation: obtain at least 3–5 offers, optimise the loan-to-value to below 67% and make use of your banking relationship.

What is the forecast for the next 12 months?

Market observers expect stable to slightly rising rates in 2026. The SNB is likely to keep the policy rate at 0.00%, but long-term capital market rates edged higher at the start of 2026 — driven by inflation expectations in the eurozone. 10-year fixed-rate mortgages could rise to 1.80–2.00% towards the end of the year, without a dramatic interest rate reversal. Forward mortgages secure today’s rate for a payout in 6–24 months.