Saint-Louis: Swiss Cross-Border Income
The equation is simple: Swiss salaries, French real estate. The ultimate cross-border arbitrage.
Market Reality
A market driven by the highest purchasing power in the world.
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
Record tenant solvency
Average price per sqm
~€2,800
Average rent
€18/sqm
Observed net
6–8%
If premium
None
Synthèse Exécutive
Saint-Louis is an economic anomaly. Located within cycling distance of Basel (pharmaceuticals, finance), it hosts a population earning Swiss francs while spending euros. Tenant solvency here is unmatched in France.
The objective is not Mulhouse-style 12% returns, but a ‘fortified’ 7%. Default risk is close to zero in the cross-border CSP+ segment, and land pressure supports long-term value.
The market is tight. Prices have risen, but remain roughly three times lower than across the border. This is a patrimonial flow market: designed to build resilient, long-term income streams.
Caution: cross-border tenants are demanding. They expect a ‘Swiss-level’ comfort standard. ‘Good condition’ is not enough — it must feel like premium new.
Risk Mapping
Border access & tramway proximity: the only criteria that matter.
Centre / Tram Line 3
Quartier€3,200/sqm
Prix moyenSafe Value
The extension of the Basel tram network has driven strong appreciation. Full liquidity.
Bourgfelden
Quartier€2,900/sqm
Prix moyenBorder-facing
Directly adjacent to Switzerland. Walkable access. Quiet and highly sought-after.
Neuweg / Michelfelden
Quartier€2,600/sqm
Prix moyenFamily-oriented
More residential, slightly further out. Suitable for family-sized units.
Huningue (Neighbouring)
Quartier€3,800/sqm
Prix moyenPremium
The ‘Little Basel’. Very expensive, very attractive (Parc des Eaux Vives). Lower yields (4–5%).
Village-Neuf
Quartier€2,700/sqm
Prix moyenOverflow market
An interesting spillover market. Higher quality of life.
Validated Arbitrage Strategies
Serving the most solvent tenants in Europe.
Cross-Border Co-Living
Top YieldThe grail: large 3–4 bedroom apartments for young professionals at Novartis/Roche. They expect high-end, plug-and-play solutions.
Net yield
7–9%
Demand
Explosive
Business Furnished T2
Low MaintenanceA pied-à-terre for consultants or executives on assignment. Mobility or civil lease. Very high rents are accepted.
Net yield
6–8%
Turnover
Medium
Borderline Patrimonial
Swiss SecurityClassic acquisition, light renovation, long-term unfurnished or furnished rental. A real estate equivalent of a life insurance policy.
Net yield
5–6%
Risk
None
Track Record
Audited performance on a delivered project. View example analyzed projects.
4-Room Apartment → 3-Bedroom Cross-Border Co-Living
Net Yield
8.1%
Net Cash Flow
€550
Turnkey Project
€240k
Letting Time
3 days
Discover other investment opportunities
For a full analysis, see the Mulhouse rental property market. For concrete examples, explore delivered projects.