{"id":25299,"date":"2026-07-15T18:39:37","date_gmt":"2026-07-15T13:09:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/?p=25299"},"modified":"2026-07-15T18:39:48","modified_gmt":"2026-07-15T13:09:48","slug":"cost-of-living-in-lyon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universityliving.com\/blog\/student-finances\/cost-of-living-in-lyon\/","title":{"rendered":"Cost of Living in Lyon for Students: 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

Have dreams of going to university in France? Well, you are far from being alone in doing so. Students come to study in Lyon because of its great reputation in terms of universities, rich history, world-famous cuisine, and unique French lifestyle. However, the real deal of living in a new country could seem like a challenge. The cost of living in Lyon<\/strong> may feel intimidating at a glance, especially when it comes to accommodation expenses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But Lyon is one of the most affordable and student-friendly cities in France, significantly cheaper than the cost of living in Paris<\/a><\/strong>! With this guide on the cost of living in Lyon for students<\/strong>, you will get a lot of useful information about what exactly it costs and how to cope with it. As of 2026, the cost of living in Lyon for students is between \u20ac1,375 and \u20ac1,965 per month, <\/strong>which is much lower than Paris and completely manageable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lyon welcomes over 180,000 students every year with top universities like Claude Bernard University and Sciences Po Lyon. <\/strong>Known as the \u201cGastronomic Capital\u201d of France. The city is between the Rh\u00f4ne and Sa\u00f4ne rivers, offering beautiful waterfront views. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s break it all down! From student accommodation Lyon<\/strong><\/a> to food, transport, and other costs, so you can prepare confidently for your study abroad journey in the best student residence. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Average Monthly Cost of Living in Lyon <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The average monthly cost of living in Lyon for students is between \u20ac1,375 and \u20ac1,965.<\/strong> In this, the largest proportion of expenditure goes towards housing. Students who opt for affordable student housing or live in groups or opt for the all-inclusive type spend less compared to their counterparts. The international student living cost in Lyon<\/strong> varies depending on the choice of lifestyle and location. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s a realistic monthly breakdown for 2026 for a student living in Lyon: <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Expense Category<\/strong> <\/td>Monthly Cost (\u20ac)<\/strong> <\/td><\/tr>
Accommodation Rent<\/strong> <\/td>569 \u2013 830 <\/td><\/tr>
Groceries & Food<\/strong> <\/td>250 \u2013 350 <\/td><\/tr>
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Heating)<\/strong> <\/td>241 <\/td><\/tr>
Internet & Mobile<\/strong> <\/td>29 (Internet) + 12 (Mobile) <\/td><\/tr>
Public Transport<\/strong> <\/td>74 <\/td><\/tr>
Social Life (Restaurants, Cinema, Leisure)<\/strong> <\/td>120 \u2013 250 <\/td><\/tr>
Study Materials<\/strong> <\/td>30 \u2013 60 <\/td><\/tr>
Extra Expenses<\/strong> <\/td>80 \u2013 150 <\/td><\/tr>
Total Estimated Cost<\/strong> <\/td>1,375 \u2013 1,965 <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/div><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

If you want more accurate budget planning, you can use the <\/em><\/strong>Cost of Living Calculator by University Living<\/em><\/strong><\/a> <\/em><\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Student Accommodation Costs in Lyon <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Accommodation is going to account for most of the money that you spend in Lyon, especially if you are studying here. The choice of housing will have a direct impact on many other aspects in terms of expenses, commuting, security, and social activities as well. Lyon offers a good range of student apartments to suit every budget and lifestyle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In most cases, international students prefer purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) because it\u2019s secure, fully furnished, and is an all-inclusive student flats in Lyon. These properties are specifically made for students and include utility bills like electricity, water, heating, and internet in the rent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Types of Student Accommodation in Lyon <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Student housing also known as Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSAs) are specially designed for students and these are one of the most popular choices among students. It offers convenience, community living, and proximity to campus, also come in a variety of layouts to cater to different preferences and group sizes: <\/p>\n\n\n\n