Rental Market in Lyon

The city faces a shortage of rental properties. As a result of this scarcity, rental prices are increasing, and the time to find a tenant is significantly shortened.

Key Figures

• €17/sqm: average rent in Lyon for existing properties
• 28%: percentage of T3 (three-room apartments) requests in Lyon
• 64%: percentage of tenants living in Lyon
• €843: average rent for an unfurnished apartment in Lyon
• 15,000: average number of new residents per year

Lyon, Leading in Attractiveness Lyon is an extremely attractive city, attracting between 10,000 to 15,000 residents per year, according to a study by SeLoger. Lyon has many assets to attract new residents: firstly, its economic dynamism, with the Part-Dieu district, the second-largest business district in France after La Défense in Paris. Perfectly served by rail transport, the Lyon metropolitan area is also attractive for its gastronomy, culture, and history. Ideally located between sea and mountains, just 2 hours from the capital, Lyon is also appreciated for its nature and vast spaces, including its green lung: the Parc de la Tête d'Or. Since December 5, 1998, 27 hectares, or 10% of the city of Lyon, have been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Rental Prices Remain High in Lyon When demand exceeds supply, prices skyrocket. This is the case in Lyon, where demand is very high, and the availability of rental properties is decreasing. This has an impact on rental prices, which have sharply increased in the Lyon metropolitan area. Lyon faces rental demand not only strong but also oriented towards all types of accommodations. Consequently, the rent level is high, if not excessive in some cases. For reference, the average rent stands at €17/sqm, with ranges widening depending on the neighborhoods and property types. The 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th arrondissements are typically the ones with the highest rents, due to their attractiveness and accessibility. In contrast, the 9th arrondissement records the most affordable rent levels. To live in the Capital of Gaul, one should budget between €250 and €600 per month for a studio, depending on the location. Rents climb up to €3,500 per month, or even higher, for family apartments or townhouses with multiple bedrooms. These amounts prompted the implementation of rent control to prevent Lyon rents from exceeding a ceiling set at 20% above the reference rent.

T3 Apartments Particularly in Demand in Lyon The demand for furnished rentals in Lyon is very high. Small surfaces are also highly sought after, specifically studios and one-bedroom apartments (T1). However, the most sought-after housing type, accounting for 28% of requests alone, is the T3 apartment. This corresponds to a two-bedroom apartment, typically suitable for couples with one or two children. 3-room apartments also suit households looking for possible workspace or families who tend to expand and require more space. While T3 apartments are ideal for young professionals or couples with children, they are also highly appreciated for the possibility of shared living. This is increasingly the case for students who choose coliving as a lifestyle.