Lyon is often described as the best of both worlds: the economic strength of a major European city with the quality of life of a provincial capital. For expats considering living in France long term, Lyon consistently ranks as one of the easiest cities to settle into, practical, well-connected, culturally rich, and family-friendly.
Whether you’re relocating for work, planning retirement in France, or simply looking for a city that feels balanced rather than overwhelming, Lyon deserves serious consideration.
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Best neighbourhoods to live in Lyon
Croix-Rousse and Confluence: Premium urban living
Croix-Rousse (4ᵉ arrondissement) is one of Lyon’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. Set on a hill overlooking the city, it blends historic architecture with a bohemian, village-like atmosphere. It attracts families and professionals drawn to its markets, independent shops, cafés, and well-regarded schools.
Despite its central location, Croix-Rousse feels self-contained and calm. Demand is high and prices are among the highest in Lyon, reflecting its strong long-term appeal.
Confluence (2ᵉ arrondissement) represents the modern face of Lyon. Recently redeveloped, this riverside district is sleek, architectural, and highly walkable. It offers new eco-designed buildings, excellent infrastructure, shopping, restaurants, and green spaces along the Saône.
Confluence appeals to buyers who want contemporary living without sacrificing access to the city centre. Property prices are high, but the area is popular with families and professionals seeking comfort and convenience.
Monplaisir and Monchat: Residential and more accessible
Monplaisir (8ᵉ arrondissement) is a historic, family-friendly neighbourhood with a strong local identity. Known as the birthplace of cinema thanks to the Lumière brothers, it offers reputable schools, local shops, markets, and a genuine “village in the city” feel. Prices here remain more accessible than in central districts, making it a popular compromise between lifestyle and budget.
Monchat (3ᵉ arrondissement) sits slightly outside the hypercentre and feels notably quieter. With its Art Deco houses, tree-lined streets, and springtime wisteria, it has a surprisingly bucolic atmosphere. Fewer nightlife options and more limited public transport keep prices relatively reasonable, making it attractive for families prioritising calm over buzz.
Valmy / Vaise: A neighbourhood on the rise
Located in the 9ᵉ arrondissement, Vaise (often referred to as Valmy after its metro station) is one of Lyon’s fastest-evolving districts. Set along the Saône and served by Metro Line D, it offers green surroundings with easy access to the city centre.
Still relatively affordable compared to central Lyon, Vaise attracts families and professionals looking for space, value, and future potential. New cafés, businesses, and cultural spots are steadily appearing, reinforcing its reputation as a neighbourhood to watch.
Caluire-et-Cuire: Residential calm just outside Lyon
Just beyond Lyon’s official boundaries but bordering the 4ᵉ arrondissement, Caluire-et-Cuire offers a quieter, more residential environment. Popular with families, it benefits from parks, proximity to the Parc de la Tête d’Or, and a strong sense of security.
Schools, both public and private, are a major draw, and while property prices are high, they reflect the area’s stability and long-term desirability. It’s an excellent option for those wanting space and greenery without losing access to Lyon.
Cost of living in Lyon
Housing and property prices
- Average property price: ~4,745 €/m²
- Apartments: ~4,699 €/m²
- Houses: ~6,256 €/m²
- Average rent: ~17 €/m²
- Furnished apartment: ~979 € / month
Living in Lyon is significantly more affordable than Paris. Overall living costs are around 6-7% lower excluding rent, and nearly 19% lower including rent. In practical terms, Lyon offers noticeably better purchasing power, especially when it comes to housing and transport.
Estimated monthly costs for a single person (excluding rent) are around 1,040 €, making Lyon manageable for both professionals and retirees.
Getting around Lyon
Lyon has one of the best public transport systems in France.
TCL network includes:
- 4 metro lines
- 7 tramway lines
- 2 funiculars
- 120+ bus routes
- Navette services and Optibus for reduced mobility
A monthly transport pass costs approximately 74 € (zones 1–2) or 90 € (all zones), with discounts for seniors and families.
Transport links
- Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport, international hub
- TGV station: Paris in around 1h58
Living in Lyon without a car is entirely realistic.
Lifestyle in Lyon
Lyon is internationally recognised as the capital of French gastronomy. From traditional bouchons to Les Halles Paul Bocuse, food culture is woven into daily life.
Culturally, the city is vibrant and diverse. Major events like the Fête des Lumières and Biennale de la Danse define the calendar, while districts like Confluence showcase modern, innovative architecture.
Nature is never far away. The Parc de la Tête d’Or is one of Europe’s largest urban parks, and Lyon’s location makes weekend trips to the Alps, lakes, or vineyards easy. Ski resorts are reachable in under two hours.
Daily life in Lyon feels organised, safe, and family-oriented. It offers the professional opportunities of a large city without the constant intensity of a capital.
Expat community in Lyon
Lyon has one of the most welcoming expat communities in France, large enough to be active, but far more close-knit than Paris.
Events are frequent and easy to find through Meetup and expat networks. A key organisation is: American Club of Lyon (ACL), social events, coffee mornings, holiday celebrations, and family activities 👉 https://americanclublyon.org/
For newcomers, this community makes integration noticeably smoother.
Why Lyon might be the perfect city for you
Lyon is ideal if you’re looking for:
- A major French city without Paris-level intensity or prices
- A strong job market alongside an excellent quality of life
- World-class food, culture, and healthcare built into daily life
- A city where you can live comfortably without relying on a car
- Long-term stability, not a boom-and-bust lifestyle city
Lyon works particularly well for people who want to live in France, not just pass through it. It’s a city designed around real life: working, raising families, retiring actively, and staying connected to the rest of France and Europe.
Often described as “the most balanced city in France,” Lyon combines the economic weight of a metropolis with the rhythm of a regional city. You get international companies, universities, and hospitals, without the constant pressure and housing extremes of Paris. For many expats, it’s the place where France finally feels manageable.
Transport is a huge part of the appeal. With an efficient metro, trams, buses, and one of the best high-speed rail hubs in the country, Lyon is easy to navigate day-to-day and incredibly well connected. Paris is under two hours away by TGV, the Alps are close for weekends, and the south is within easy reach.
Then there’s lifestyle. Lyon’s food culture isn’t just for tourists, it’s woven into everyday life, from neighbourhood markets to traditional bouchons. Add riverside walks, large parks, reliable public services, and a calmer pace than most global cities, and you get a place that rewards people who stay.
Lyon may not shout the loudest, but for many newcomers, that’s exactly why it works.
Still deciding where to move?
Explore our other city deep-dives to compare neighbourhoods, housing costs and expat life across France.
FAQ: Living in Lyon
Is Lyon a good city for expats?
Yes. Lyon offers excellent infrastructure, healthcare, transport, and a strong international community, making it one of the easiest French cities to settle into.
Is Lyon cheaper than Paris?
Significantly. Housing, transport, and everyday costs are all lower, while quality of life remains high.
Can you live in Lyon without a car?
Absolutely. Public transport coverage is excellent, and most daily needs are walkable or accessible by metro or tram.
Is Lyon suitable for families and retirees?
Yes. Lyon balances safety, healthcare, green space, and culture, making it appealing for both families and those planning retirement in France.
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