Apartments for Rent in Lyon: Find Your Trusted Home

Important information before renting an apartment in Lyon

Moving to Lyon is exciting... and a little overwhelming when you’re navigating the French rental system for the first time. Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you!

Renting in Lyon works with clear rules, strong demand, and neighbourhoods that each have their own rhythm. Whether you're staying for a semester or starting your first job in France, understanding how the local housing market works will help you feel more confident from day one.

Best neighbourhoods if you are a student in Lyon

To help you compare the different areas easily, here’s a clear overview of the main student-friendly neighbourhoods in Lyon, with transport options, what’s nearby, and how budget-friendly each one is.

Best neighbourhoods if you’re a young professional

And if you’re moving to Lyon for an internship or your first job, here’s a quick comparison of the areas young professionals often choose for comfort, transport, and daily convenience.

What type of apartment should you look for in Lyon?

The French rental vocabulary can be confusing at first. Here’s a simple guide:

• Studio: one single living space with a small kitchen area and a private bathroom. Compact and perfect for solo living.
• T1: similar to a studio but with a separate kitchen.
• T2 = 1-bedroom apartment: one bedroom + one living room + kitchen + bathroom.
• T3 (=2-bedroom apartment), T4 (=3-bedroom apartment): larger apartments with two or three bedrooms, ideal for flatsharing.

In Lyon, you’ll find both furnished and unfurnished options:

• Furnished (“meublé”): already equipped with essential furniture, ideal when you’re arriving from abroad.
• Unfurnished (“non meublé”): empty, you’ll need to buy or bring everything, from the bed to the lamp. Cheaper monthly rent, but more preparation.

Budget: What should you plan for when moving to Lyon?

Before settling in Lyon, it helps to know what costs to expect. From rent to deposits and expenses, understanding the basics will make your arrival smoother and your search much easier. Here’s what you should plan for.

What is the average rent for an apartment in Lyon?

On average, renting an apartment in Lyon costs between €600 and €900 per month, depending on the neighbourhood, size of the accommodation and whether it’s furnished or not.

What is the best type of accommodation budget-wise?

If you’re looking for comfort and savings:

• Flatshares allow you to split rent and utilities, and enjoy bigger spaces.
• Student residences are turnkey: furnished, secure, and designed for newcomers. Perfect for short term but also if you don't want to invest in furniture
• Coliving offers all-inclusive packages with shared spaces and a friendly community.

Unfurnished rentals may seem cheaper at first, but remember that buying furniture and appliances can quickly increase your initial budget.

What neighbourhood to choose according to your budget?

• More affordable: Villeurbanne, Monplaisir, Guillotière, Vaise
• Mid-range: Jean Macé, Saxe-Gambetta, Part-Dieu
• Higher budget: Presqu’île, Vieux Lyon, Croix-Rousse

Deposit system and guarantor in France: how does it work?

In France, landlords usually request:

• One month’s rent as a security deposit (usually more for furnished rentals).
• A guarantor: someone who financially supports your application and agrees to cover your rent if needed.

If you’re an international student without a guarantor in France, Studapart can help more on this later!

Are utilities included in the price of an apartment in France?

Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Check whether the rent is “charges comprises” (utilities included) or not. Utilities generally include water, building maintenance and sometimes heating, but electricity, gas and internet are often extra.On Studapart, each listing has a clear section showing exactly what is included, so you always know what you’re paying for before you book.

Documents: What do you need to rent an apartment in Lyon?

Renting an apartment in France comes with a few essential documents, especially if you’re arriving from abroad. Don’t worry! the list is simple, and once you know what’s expected, the process becomes much easier.

Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare so your rental application is complete and ready to go.

What documents do I need to provide to rent my apartment?

In France, landlords review a small set of documents to confirm your identity and situation. The exact list can vary, but here are the most common items you may be asked for:

• ID or passport
• Proof of income (salary slips, internship contract, or bank statements)
• Proof of scholarship or financial support if you’re a student
• Proof of enrolment or admission letter for university students
• Guarantor documents (ID + proof of income + proof of address), if required
• Visa or residence permit if applicable for your stay
• Previous rental references or a short presentation, sometimes requested but not mandatory

On Studapart, you’ll find a clear checklist on your profile to help you upload the right documents and complete your application smoothly.

What documents do I need to ask my guarantor?

In most cases, your guarantor only needs to share a few key documents so the landlord can check their situation:

• An ID (passport or identity card)
• Proof of address (recent bill or rental contract)
• Proof of income (salary slips, employment contract and tax return)

On Studapart, we guide you and your guarantor step by step so you both know exactly what to upload.

“Assurance habitation”: why is it mandatory in France?

Home insurance is required for every tenant in France. It protects you in case of water damage, fire, or accidents. Without it, landlords cannot legally let you move in.

Why Studapart makes life easier for international students and young professionals

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but Studapart makes it easier. With verified listings, secure booking and clear guidance, we help you rent in France with confidence from day one.

How can Studapart help you find an apartment?

Renting in France can feel unfamiliar when you're coming from abroad. Studapart makes the process easier for international students and young professionals by offering:

• Verified listings to protect you from scams and uncertain offers
• Secure online booking so you can reserve your home before arriving in France
• Support in English and French to answer your questions and guide you step by step
• Clear and transparent requirements so you always know which documents to prepare
• A trusted network of partner universities that rely on Studapart to support their students

Wherever you’re coming from, Studapart helps you arrive in Lyon feeling prepared, reassured and supported from day one.

What is the Guaranteed Profile?

The Guaranteed Profile is a special option on Studapart for people without a French guarantor, or whose guarantor doesn’t meet the usual criteria.

When you activate it, Studapart verifies your identity and documents, certifies your profile, and displays a “guaranteed profile” badge so landlords immediately see you are a reliable tenant. You can read more about how it works on the dedicated page about the guaranteed profile

Why choose Studapart as a provider?

Because we know that arriving in a new country is already challenging.

With Studapart, you get:

• A safe way to book from abroad
• Clear explanations at every step
• A community of students, young professionals and trusted landlords
• A rental experience built for international mobility

With Studapart, you’re never navigating the rental journey alone! We are here to make every step smoother, safer and more reassuring.