France: accommodations for rent

Living in France

France is not just the homeland of cheese, wine, and the Eiffel Tower. It's a country rich in history, culture, and opportunities. Living in France means daily encounters with art, beautiful cities, diverse climates, fairy-tale landscapes, and also modernity and professional opportunities. Major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille offer high living standards, drawing thousands of expats annually seeking professional or educational opportunities.

Renting in France

Whether you're a student looking for a room, a family needing more space, or a young professional searching for an apartment, France has something for everyone. From bustling cities like Paris and Marseille to the serene Provençal countryside, the variety of rooms and apartments for rent in France is vast. Depending on your needs and budget, various options are available:

• City apartments: Ideal for students and young professionals, apartments in French cities are often well-connected with public transport, offering a range of services. However, costs might be higher;
• Countryside homes: If you prefer a slower pace, consider renting a house in one of France's many rural regions;
• Long-term residences: For families or those planning to stay for an extended period, there are numerous medium to long-term rental homes offering stability and comfort.

Student Rentals in France

France boasts excellent university education levels and hosts some of the world's most renowned institutions like the Sorbonne and the École Normale Supérieure in Paris. Beyond the capital, other significant universities are in Lyon, Strasbourg, Lille, Bordeaux, Marseille, and Toulouse. If you're seeking student rentals in France, options abound: from rooms and apartments in metropolises to cozy homes in smaller cities. But which are the best cities for students to rent in France? Definitely Paris, Lyon, Marseille, and Toulouse. Discover them with the Spacest team.

Working and Renting in France

Major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille attract many young professionals annually seeking new career opportunities. Renting in France's major cities can be pricey, but the returns might be worth the investment. Families, especially those with children or elderly members, often opt for smaller, more affordable cities with ample green spaces. For young professionals seeking comfort, there are furnished apartments ready to welcome you. And don't fret about the cost; you can often share the rent with others, making it more affordable. For families, larger homes with multiple rooms and perhaps a small garden are available. These are often located in suburbs, offering cleaner air and more space for children.

Best Cities to Live in France

Each city in France has its unique charm and opportunities. But where to find the best rental homes in France? Here's a list of the most welcoming and affordable cities suitable for everyone, from young professionals to families and students:

• Paris: The capital and city of love, Paris needs no introduction. It's perfect for young professionals seeking opportunities or students eager to learn at the city's numerous university campuses. However, rooms and apartments for rent in Paris might come at a premium, being one of the world's most expensive cities;
• Lyon: If you're a food and culture enthusiast, Lyon might be your ideal destination. Known as France's "gastronomic capital," you'll find rental homes in France here more affordable than Paris. It's also a significant hub for young tech professionals, offering a cheaper yet equally captivating alternative. Delicious food, friendly locals, and a vibrant cultural scene make this city one of the best options for renting in France;
• Marseille: If you prefer a Mediterranean climate and living near the sea, Marseille is for you. Located in southern France, it's right by the sea, boasting a mild Mediterranean climate and beaches for all tastes. With a wide range of rooms and apartments for rent in France, this city provides a good work-life balance;
• Nantes is perfect for families and those seeking a calmer pace. This city offers excellent quality of life with relatively low housing costs. The Loire River gently flows through the city, providing a stunning waterfront view;
• Toulouse: Last but not least, known as "La Ville Rose" for its pink brick buildings, it's France's second hotspot for students. With more spacious areas and a lower cost of living, it's a great choice for those wanting to live in France without breaking the bank. If you're in the aerospace sector or a science enthusiast, Toulouse is your place. The city is a significant hub for the aerospace industry, offering numerous options to rent in France without excessive costs.

Cost of Living in France

If you're thinking of moving and living in France, one of the first aspects to evaluate is undoubtedly the cost of living. As in any country, costs can vary significantly from one city to another. For instance, living in Paris is considerably more expensive than cities like Marseille or Toulouse. Rental prices in France also differ: on average, in the capital Paris, expect to pay premium rates for a studio or room. However, if you opt to share an apartment or live in student housing, you can significantly reduce costs. On average, a room for rent in a shared apartment in France can range between 400€ and 800€ per month, depending on the city and area. For expenses like utilities, transport, and food, expect to spend an additional 200 - 300 euros monthly.

France's Most Beautiful Places to Live

France, located in central Europe, spans a vast territory hosting various climates and landscapes. From the warm Mediterranean climate of the French Riviera to the northern cliffs of Normandy, passing through art cities like Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux to the characteristic villages of the French countryside: France is a blend of beautiful places to live and settle for shorter or longer periods. Discover them in our special guide The best cities to live in France.

How to Find a Rental Home in France?

If you're ready to embark on a new adventure and live in France, it's time to discover how to make this experience tangible. Finding rental homes in France might seem challenging, but with our guide, it'll be much simpler:

• Step 1 - The French rental market: To rent in France, it's crucial to understand the real estate market well. France offers a wide range of housing options, from picturesque countryside homes to modern city apartments;
• Step 2 - Explore various options: To find rooms and apartments for rent in France that meet your needs, it's essential to explore all available options. Check specialized websites, like Spacest, and find your ideal rental home in France;
• Step 3 - Budget: Set a budget before starting your search. Remember that prices can vary significantly depending on the area;
• Step 4 - Location: Before embarking on your journey to live in France, ensure you find accommodation close to your workplace or study place or alternatively, near public transport stops;
• Step 5 - Start your search early: To avoid stress and rush, begin your search a few months in advance. This will give you time to find the perfect rental that suits your needs and lifestyle;
• Step 6 - Rely on industry professionals: If you feel the search is becoming too demanding, you can always turn to online platforms, like Spacest, specializing in rentals to find your dream home in France.

Rental Costs in France

Similar to other nations, rental prices vary based on the region, city, and property features and location. If you choose to live in France's major cities like Paris, Lyon, or Bordeaux, bear in mind that costs, including rents, are considerably high. However, smaller cities and suburbs offer more affordable prices. On average, for a studio in the city center, prices start from 600€ - 800€ per month, but they can significantly increase in more sought-after areas.