Student life in the heart of Lyon
Welcome to Lyon, the historical capital of Gaul and the second most popular student city in France. Combining academic excellence, rich heritage, and high quality of life, Lyon attracts thousands of French and international students every year. Its efficient public transportation system, lively neighborhoods, and numerous career opportunities make it a top destination for higher education.
Making Lyon affordable
Essential monthly expenses
- Total monthly budget: between €880 and €1,274
- Student accommodation: from €500 (furnished)
- Food and groceries: €200–300
- Student transport pass (TCL): €25/month (€300/year)
- Utilities and mobile phone: €80–100
- Leisure: €100–200
- Working while studying: up to €11.65/hour (up to €964/month for 20h/week)
Smart transport solutions
- TCL student pass (under 28): unlimited travel on metro, tram, and bus
- Illico solidarity card (TER): up to 75% discount on regional train tickets
- Vélo’v (bike-sharing service): student annual subscriptions starting at €16.50
- Night transport: TCL runs night buses on weekends for students’ convenience
Eating well on a budget
- CROUS university restaurants: full meals for €3.30
- Local markets: fresh, affordable produce, especially at Croix-Rousse Market
- Student-friendly menus in local brasseries: €7–9 all-inclusive
Student associations: food distributions and solidarity meals available
Finding the ideal student accommodation
Student housing options
- Galileo Global Education partner residences: secure and well-located
- Private student residences (Cardinal Campus, Estudines, etc.): modern and comfortable
- Furnished studios: from €500/month
Independent housing options
- Studios in the city center: €600–900/month
- Shared apartments: from €400 per room
- Housing assistance (CAF): save up to 30%
Community living
- Modern shared housing via Lokaviz, Roomlala, etc.: €350–600/month
- Host families: €400–550/month, often including meals
Top neighborhoods for students
- La Guillotière (7th district): multicultural and lively, close to major universities
- La Croix-Rousse (1st and 4th districts): Bohemian and artistic vibe, lots of cafés and bars
- Villeurbanne: Close to La Doua campus, affordable housing
Jean Macé (7th district): Well-connected, vibrant student life
Everything you need
- Security: available 24/7
- Health access: Lyon University Health Center (SSU) open to all
- Multilingual emergency medical assistance: Dial 112
- Student support hotline: 0 800 737 800
Cultural benefits
- Free museum entry for EU residents under 26
- Numerous student events: International Student Night, university festivals, and much more
- Special discounts: cinema, theatre, and concerts with a culture card
- Events organized by student associations: guided tours, art workshops, and sports
A dynamic student life
- Galileo campuses: active clubs and associations
- Special student activities: language tandems and cultural exchange nights hosted by universities
- A wide range of cultural offers: access to the Culture Pass