At less than an hour from Paris by high-speed train, Reims offers something rare, a city that balances heritage, convenience, and affordability.
With its UNESCO-listed cathedral, Art Deco architecture, and world-famous Champagne houses, Reims combines cultural prestige with a relaxed pace of life. Add in an accessible property market and growing job opportunities, and it’s easy to see why more and more expats are choosing Reims as their home base in France.
Here, you can sip world-class bubbly on a sunny terrace, stroll through leafy parks, and still reach Paris before lunch.
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Best neighbourhoods to live in Reims
Reims is made up of distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own rhythm and charm, from elegant central streets to quieter family areas on the edge of town.
L’Hypercentre (Hincmar-Est)
Located in a privileged setting, the Hincmar-Est district stands out for its preserved architecture, tree-lined avenues, and balance between green spaces and urban life.
- Average prices: 3,516 €/m² for apartments, 5,024 €/m² for houses
- The Notre-Dame Cathedral area, especially Rue Voltaire, Rue Diderot, and Rue Saint-Symphorien, remains one of the most sought-after (and priciest) parts of Reims, averaging 3,847 €/m².
It’s ideal for those who want to live at the heart of Reims’ cultural life, cafés, shops, and historic charm all within walking distance.
Barbâtre-Nord
Once overlooked, Barbâtre-Nord is now experiencing an exciting transformation. Urban renewal projects, good transport links, and a calm environment make it attractive to both families and investors.
- Average prices: 3,079 €/m² for apartments, 5,184 €/m² for houses
- Just 15 minutes’ walk from City Hall, with easy access to shops and trams
If you’re looking for an affordable entry point close to the centre, this is one of Reims’ most promising neighbourhoods.
Neufchâtel
Composed mostly of apartments surrounded by greenery, Neufchâtel is a favourite among families seeking peace and space while staying well connected.
- Average prices: 2,266 €/m² for apartments, 2,731 €/m² for houses
- Family-friendly atmosphere, strong community, and nearby schools
For expats moving with children, Neufchâtel offers a perfect mix of comfort, safety, and affordability.
If you’re moving to Reims as a family, start your search in Neufchâtel or Barbâtre-Nord. If you want to be close to the city’s cultural life and cafés, Hincmar-Est or the Cathedral Quarter are ideal.
Cost of living in Reims
Reims is one of the most affordable cities in northeastern France, especially when compared to Paris or Lille. It offers a high quality of life, excellent transport links, and reasonable housing prices, a rare combination for a city of this size.
Housing and property prices
Real estate in Reims remains accessible and continues to attract both investors and long-term residents.
- Average property price: around 2,500 €/m²
- Apartments: 2,431 €/m²
- Houses: 2,758 €/m²
- Rent: Average 13 €/m², about 632 €/month for a furnished apartment
The central and historical districts are more expensive, but outer neighbourhoods remain within reach for first-time buyers or renters.
Example: You could rent a bright two-bedroom apartment here for less than half what you’d pay in Paris, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Everyday living costs
Living in Reims costs roughly 5% less than the national average in France. Groceries, utilities, and restaurants are all reasonably priced.
- Utilities for an 85 m² apartment: 150-200 €/month
- Meal at a mid-range restaurant: 15-20 €/person
Public transport is another cost saver: an unlimited monthly pass for Grand Reims Mobilités (tram, bus, and 100% electric shuttles) costs just 40 €/month, or 400 € annually.
For professionals commuting to Paris, Reims is one of the smartest choices, offering Parisian access at provincial prices.
Getting around Reims
Reims benefits from an excellent and environmentally conscious transport network through Grand Reims Mobilités.
- Tramway: modern, clean, and efficient, connecting the city from north to south
- Bus network: covers all major districts and suburban zones
- Electric city shuttles: 100% eco-friendly
A monthly subscription costs 40 €, with reduced fares for students and seniors.
And when you need to travel further:
- Paris: 45 minutes by TGV
- Charles de Gaulle Airport: 30 minutes by train
- Brussels: 1 hour 20 minutes
- London: about 3 hours via Paris connections
If you plan to commute or travel often, consider Reims as your base, it’s perfectly positioned between three European capitals.
Lifestyle in Reims
Life in Reims strikes a rare balance between urban vibrancy and peaceful living. The city’s streets are filled with Art Deco architecture, lively cafés, and local markets, yet nature is never far away.
The Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, just outside the city, offers forests, trails, and vineyards perfect for weekend escapes.
Culture and events
Reims has earned its “City of Art and History” label for good reason:
- More than 5,000 cultural and sporting events take place each year.
- The city boasts top museums, including the Palais du Tau, Musée des Beaux-Arts, and La Comédie de Reims.
- Former industrial sites like La Cartonnerie and Halle du Boulingrin now host concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.
Gastronomy and Champagne
Reims is, of course, the capital of Champagne, home to over 250 km of underground cellars and world-renowned houses like Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, and Ruinart.
Beyond the bubbles, Reims’ culinary scene is thriving. You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to local brasseries serving regional favourites.
Don’t miss a guided Champagne tasting in one of the historic cellars. It’s one of the best ways to connect with Reims’ culture (and locals!).
Expat life in Reims
Reims is quietly attracting more international residents each year, thanks to its cultural wealth, affordability, and location near Paris.
The city’s welcoming atmosphere and strong local economy make it ideal for professionals, families, and retirees alike.
Join groups like Expats in Reims to meet others, share advice, and connect over the joys (and paperwork) of French life.
If you want the benefits of Paris without the overwhelm, Reims offers the perfect in-between, a manageable size, rich culture, and easy access to everything France has to offer.
Why Reims might be the perfect city for you
Reims combines the best of France in one place, history, gastronomy, connectivity, and calm.
Here, you can enjoy big-city conveniences at small-city prices, with Paris just 45 minutes away. Whether you’re a student, professional, or retiree, Reims offers room to breathe and grow, without compromising on culture or comfort.
It’s a city that makes “living well” feel refreshingly attainable.
FAQ: Living in Reims
Is Reims a good place for expats?
Yes. Reims offers a high quality of life, affordable housing, and a growing international community, all within commuting distance of Paris.
Is it expensive to live in Reims?
No. The cost of living is about 5% lower than the French average, and property prices are far below Paris levels.
Is Reims family-friendly?
Absolutely. Quiet neighbourhoods like Neufchâtel are ideal for families, with parks, schools, and strong public transport connections.
How do I get from Reims to Paris?
The TGV connects Reims to Paris in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal home for commuters or frequent travellers. Cost for a train ticket to Paris can range from 15 € to 22 €.
What is Reims best known for?
Reims is world-famous for its Champagne, its UNESCO-listed cathedral, and its dynamic cultural scene, a blend of history and modern life that’s uniquely French.
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