In 2025, apartment prices in the world’s largest cities continue to soar. Experts note that in the most prestigious urban districts, prices per square meter have reached record highs. This trend is especially prominent in financial and business centers, where housing demand consistently outpaces supply.
Among the ten most expensive cities to buy an apartment, five are found in Switzerland. This highlights the country’s economic stability and high standard of living, attracting wealthy buyers from around the globe. At the same time, Asian and European metropolises remain fierce competitors for the title of the priciest real estate market.
Leading the Rankings: Asia and Switzerland
Hong Kong once again tops the list. Here, the average price per square meter of housing surpasses $25,000. Limited available land, a dense population, and its status as an international financial center make the city unattainable for most buyers.
Second and third places go to the Swiss cities of Zürich and Lausanne, where apartments average $24,800 and $22,900 per square meter, respectively. A stable economy, developed infrastructure, and a high level of safety drive a steady rise in property prices.
Singapore, ranked fourth, also posts impressive figures. Here, one square meter costs about $22,500. The city-state is renowned for its strict real estate regulations and limited supply, which sustain high property prices.
European and Asian megacities dominate the top 10
Bern, the de facto capital of Switzerland, takes fifth place in the ranking with $22,200 per square meter. Geneva and Basel also made the top ten, further highlighting Switzerland’s dominance in the luxury real estate market.
Seoul and Tel Aviv-Yafo represent Asia and the Middle East in this list. Both cities maintain high housing prices due to limited supply and strong demand from both local and foreign investors.
London rounds out the top ten. Despite economic and political challenges in recent years, the British capital remains one of the most expensive cities for apartment purchases. Square meter prices here reach tens of thousands of dollars, and demand for premium housing remains consistently high.
The US and other cities on the list
New York is the only American city in the top 20, ranking 11th behind its European and Asian counterparts. Nevertheless, the cost of housing in Manhattan and other prestigious neighborhoods continues to impress even the most discerning buyers.
The ranking also includes cities traditionally considered attractive for real estate investment. However, in 2025, it is Swiss and Asian metropolises that are setting the tone in the global luxury housing market.
Factors influencing apartment prices
Experts highlight several key reasons why apartment prices in these cities remain so high. First, the scarcity of land and strict building regulations play a major role. Second, the high quality of life and well-developed infrastructure attract wealthy buyers and investors.
Additionally, political stability, low crime rates, and favorable tax policies make these cities particularly appealing to international investors. As a result, demand for luxury real estate continues to rise, setting new price records.
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