Student life in Lyon: studies, budget, housing and quality of life
With more than 170,000 students, Lyon stands out as one of the major student cities in France. Located at the heart of a vast metropolitan area, the city attracts thousands of French and international students every year thanks to the richness of its academic programs, its quality of life, and its cultural dynamism. Studying in Lyon means enjoying an attractive urban environment, a strong university network, and a particularly vibrant student life.
However, before settling in, many questions arise: budget, housing, cost of living, transportation, services… Here is a comprehensive overview to better understand student life in Lyon.
Why choose Lyon as a student?
Lyon combines the advantages of a major city with a human-scale atmosphere. The Lyon metropolitan area offers a pleasant urban environment that is well connected and easy to navigate on a daily basis. Its efficient public transport network, numerous student neighborhoods, and strong economic dynamism make it a popular destination.
The city regularly appears in rankings of the best student cities, particularly for the diversity of its campuses, its cultural offer, and its youth-oriented projects. Lyon is also attractive thanks to its strong job market, making it easier for students to find part-time work during their years of study.
Universities and academic programs in Lyon
Lyon offers a wide range of universities and higher education institutions, such as Université de Lyon, emlyon, and INSA Lyon. Students can pursue a variety of academic programs in fields such as science, humanities, law, health, engineering, and management.
This diversity allows each student to find a pathway that matches their goals in a dynamic city.
The cost of student life in Lyon: budget and expenses to plan for
The cost of living in Lyon remains more affordable than in some major cities such as Paris, although it still requires a well-planned budget. On average, a student should expect to spend several hundred euros per month to cover everyday expenses.
The main expenses include housing, food, transportation, leisure activities, and various subscriptions. Prices vary depending on the neighborhood, type of accommodation, and lifestyle, but Lyon offers a good balance between dynamism and budget control for students.
Student housing in Lyon
Housing is often the primary concern for students. At Lodgis, we offer a wide selection of furnished apartments suitable for students in Lyon. Whether you are looking for a studio near your university or a shared apartment, you will find a turnkey solution (internet, equipment, suitable lease).
Transportation and student mobility
Mobility is a real strength in Lyon. The public transport network efficiently covers the city and the metropolitan area. With several lines of metro, tram, and bus services, getting around is easy and fast.
Students benefit from discounted fares through a subscription tailored to their status. This accessibility helps keep transportation costs under control while fully enjoying student life and the opportunities offered by the city.
For more information about transportation in Lyon, discover our dedicated guide here.
Financial aid, jobs, and services for students
Lyon provides many services to support students in their daily lives. Financial aid is available for housing, mobility, and dining. University and local organizations also offer guidance for orientation, health, and social life.
Going out, culture, and social life in Lyon
Lyon’s student life is particularly rich. The city offers a wide range of activities, events, and cultural experiences accessible to students. Concerts, festivals, exhibitions, cinemas, and cultural venues shape the academic year.
Student associations also play a central role. They help students integrate, expand their network, and take part in a variety of projects, whether cultural, social, or sports-related. This dynamic greatly contributes to Lyon’s appeal for students.
Lyon, a well-rounded student city
Studying in Lyon means choosing a dynamic city that is well equipped and adapted to the needs of students. With quality education, a manageable cost of living, rich cultural life, and numerous opportunities, the Lyon metropolitan area offers an ideal environment to succeed academically and fully enjoy one’s university years.
And what if you stayed a little longer ?
Are you looking for accommodation in Lyon?
Lodgis, expert in furnished rentals in France for 25 years, offers you a wide choice of furnished apartments in Lyon.
Are you the owner of a property to rent in Lyon?
To learn more about our support offer, contact us or consult our dedicated page to rental management.
Where is it good to live in Lyon ?
Check out our guide to the favorite districts.
