Important information before renting an apartment in Nice
Moving to Nice is a big step… and when you’re discovering the French rental system at the same time, it can feel a bit intense. Don’t worry, we’re here to guide you!
Apartment rental in Nice comes with strong demand, seasonal tourism and neighbourhoods that each have their own atmosphere – from the Old Town streets to the Promenade des Anglais. Whether you’re staying for a semester, an internship or starting your first job in France, understanding how the Nice housing market works will help you feel more confident from day one.
Best neighbourhoods if you’re a young professional
If you’re relocating to Nice for an internship or your first job, these neighbourhoods offer a good balance of transport, work access and daily comfort. Here’s a quick overview to help you choose the right area for your new professional life.
| Neighbourhood | Transport | What’s nearby? | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vieux-Nice & Old Town | Tram line 1 (fast access to Jean-Médecin + business areas), walkable, close to buses | Bars, restaurants, seaside, lively social life — ideal if you want a vibrant lifestyle after work | Mid-range to Expensive |
| Nice Port district | Tram line 2 (direct link to the airport & offices in Nice West), buses | Trendy cafés, coworking spaces, restaurants — popular with young professionals working in tech, tourism or creative jobs | Expensive |
| Promenade des Anglais / Carré d’Or | Tram line 2 (airport ↔ city centre), excellent bus network, walkable | Seafront, offices, hotels — great if you work in hospitality, international companies or need easy airport access for travel | Expensive |
| Nice East & Hills (Riquier / Mont Boron) | Tram line 1, Riquier train station (connections to Monaco / Antibes tech hubs), buses | Quiet residential streets, sea or city views — ideal if you want a calmer area close to major work zones | Mid-range |
Best neighbourhoods if you are a student in Nice
To help you compare the different areas easily, here’s an overview of student-friendly neighbourhoods in Nice, with transport options, what’s nearby and how expensive each one usually is.
| Neighbourhood | Transport | What’s nearby? | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nice City Centre / Jean-Médecin | Tram lines 1 & 2 (direct to train station and airport), many buses | Shops, language schools, Nice-Ville train station, easy access to main business areas | Mid-range to Expensive |
| Nice Libération | Tram line 1, Nice-Ville SNCF station nearby, easy connection to tram line 2 for the airport | Local market, cafés, direct tram to city centre and university campuses | Mid-range |
| Nice Valrose / Cimiez (student area) | Tram line 1 (Valrose–Université), buses to city centre and train station | Université Côte d’Azur campus, libraries, quiet residential streets, green spaces | Mid-range |
| Nice West (Fabron / Saint-Isidore) | Tram line 2 (direct to airport and city centre), buses, Saint-Augustin train station nearby | Campus and student residences, Eco-Vallée business hub, closer to airport and office zones | More affordable |
What type of apartment should you look for in Nice?
The French rental vocabulary can be confusing at first. Here’s a simple guide for apartment rental in Nice:
- 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 Nice, you’ll find both furnished and unfurnished options:
- Furnished (“meublé”): already equipped with essential furniture, ideal when you’re arriving from abroad or staying for 6–12 months.
- Unfurnished (“non meublé”): empty, you’ll need to buy or bring everything, from the bed to the lamp. Monthly rent is often lower, but the initial budget and commitment are higher.
Where to live around Nice if you want more space or a lower budget?
If you prefer quieter surroundings, lower rent or a bigger apartment, several towns around Nice offer great alternatives for students and young professionals. They’re all well connected and let you enjoy the French Riviera lifestyle while keeping your budget under control.
- Saint-Laurent-du-Var — 5–10 minutes by train from Nice, near the airport and major work hubs. Waterfront living and the Cap 3000 shopping centre. More affordable than Nice.
- Cagnes-sur-Mer — 10–15 minutes by train, good bus connections. Beach access, charming old town and larger apartments. Generally more affordable.
- Villefranche-sur-Mer — 7 minutes by train from Nice. Quiet seaside village with stunning views. Convenient if you work in Nice East or Monaco. Mid-range prices.
- Cap d’Ail — 10–12 minutes by train, right next to Monaco. Ideal for young professionals working there. Beautiful beaches and calm residential areas. Mid-range to high-end.
- Mandelieu-la-Napoule — 20–25 minutes by train. More nature, marinas and larger living spaces. Perfect if you want calm and better value. More affordable.
These nearby towns offer great flexibility if you’re starting your first job in France or simply want more space than what central Nice can offer.
Budget: What should you plan for when moving to Nice?
Before settling in Nice, it really helps to know what costs to expect. From rent to deposits and everyday expenses, understanding the basics will make your arrival smoother and your search for a Nice apartment rental much easier. Here’s what you should plan for.
What is the average rent for an apartment in Nice?
Nice is one of the most popular cities on the French Riviera, and prices reflect this demand. On average, apartment rental in Nice ranges from around €700 to €950 per month for a studio or one-bedroom, depending on the size, the neighbourhood and whether the apartment is furnished or not. Flats close to the sea or in very central areas are usually more expensive than those further inland or in the west.
What is the best type of accommodation budget-wise?
If you’re looking for comfort and savings in Nice:
- Flatshares allow you to split rent and utilities, and enjoy a bigger apartment while keeping costs under control.
- Studios are a good option if you want your own private space while keeping a smaller surface and a predictable budget.
- Student residences are turnkey: furnished, secure and designed for newcomers. They are often a bit more expensive, but many services are included (furniture, reception, common areas…).
- Coliving offers all-inclusive packages with shared spaces and a ready-made community. Monthly rent is usually higher, but it often includes furniture, utilities and extra services.
Unfurnished rentals may seem cheaper at first, but buying furniture and appliances can quickly increase your initial budget, especially in a sunny and sought-after city like Nice.
What neighbourhood to choose according to your budget?
Here’s a quick overview to help you compare the main areas in Nice and its close surroundings based on your budget.
| Area | Examples of Neighbourhoods | Transport | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| More affordable | Nice North (Saint-Sylvestre, Gorbella), Nice West (Saint-Isidore, Lingostière) Nearby towns like Saint-Laurent-du-Var, Cagnes-sur-Mer | Tram lines 1 & 2, regional trains, buses | Affordable |
| Mid-range | Nice Libération, Valrose, Riquier, parts of Nice East and Hills | Tram line 1, trains, buses | Mid-range |
| Higher budget | Vieux-Nice, Port district, Carré d’Or, Promenade des Anglais, Cimiez | Tram lines 1 & 2, buses, walkable city centre | Expensive |
Deposit system and guarantor in France: how does it work?
In France, landlords usually request:
- One month’s rent as a security deposit (often 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 or young professional 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.
What documents do I need to provide to rent my apartment?
In France, landlords review a 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/or tax return)
You’re guided step by step throughout the process, so both you and your guarantor always know exactly which documents 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.
The good news: it’s usually quick and affordable to set up, and you can even subscribe directly through Studapart thanks to our trusted insurance partners.
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 Nice 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.