How to find Housing for Exchange Students in Lyon, France

Lyon stands out as a world-class academic hub, home to prestigious institutions such as Université Lumière Lyon 2, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3, and Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon. However, finding a room as a visiting student brings real challenges. Local landlords often hesitate to sign short-term leases for exchange terms, preferring long-term residents.

Distance adds another layer of difficulty, as online listings can carry the risk of scams aimed at international students. Despite these hurdles, Lyon's dynamic culture makes the effort entirely worthwhile—and housing complications should never stand between you and your study abroad experience.

Practical steps for finding exchange accommodation in Lyon

Leverage Institutional Resources (Université Lumière Lyon 2, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université Jean Moulin Lyon 3, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon) and look for housing tips for exchange students. Look for short-term options that aren’t as popular or contact their support services. Reach out directly to student, even prior to arrival, to inquire about short-term allocations or lesser-known temporary options.

Consult Municipal Portals: host city Lyon.The local city administration often maintains resources and updates regarding regional housing regulations and local tenant support.

Protect Yourself Against Fraud: Be extremely cautious when browsing social media groups. Never transfer security deposits or advance payments prior to verifying a property. Request remote video tours or consult official student housing advisers to verify property listings before signing.

None of these options are made for exchange students specifically. Exchange Rooms is, though. Exchange Rooms is a housing platform specifically for exchange students, with only short-term rent and accommodation offered by real fellow students. Feel free to have a look at the available accommodation on our platform.

Strategic Tip for Exchange Applicants

If you currently hold a lease in your home city, consider putting your own room up for sublet through student exchange channels and forwarding the listing to your host university's international office in Lyon. Incoming exchange students heading to your institution can benefit from your space, creating a direct network effect that unlocks listings in Lyon right when you need them.

No room to post yourself? No worries, you can make an account without offering a room for sublet yourself. You can still share Exchange Rooms with your home and host university: the bigger the network becomes, the higher everybody’s chances at finding housing become.

Cost of living, neighborhoods & local information in Lyon

Lyon blends rich heritage with modern student life, offering a vibrant lifestyle alongside top-tier education.

Estimated Cost of Living: A monthly budget typically spans €950–€1,400, covering accommodation, food, utilities, and leisure activities.

Student Housing Costs: Expect to pay between €500 and €800 per month, depending on whether you secure a room via CROUS (public student housing) or opt for private shared apartments (colocations).

Transportation: The TCL transit network features metros, tramways, funiculars, and buses. A discounted monthly student transit subscription is available for €26/month (for ages 18–25) or €32.50/month (up to 27 years old). The city also offers a popular bike-share network (Vélo'v) and quick rail connections to the nearby French Alps.

Key Neighborhoods:Vieux Lyon boasts charming historic architecture and cobblestone streets, though rentals tend to be pricier. La Part-Beau/La Part-Dieu and the 7th Arrondissement (near Guillotière and Jean Macé) provide central, well-connected, and budget-friendly environments popular among university students.

Local Student Culture: International exchange groups, such as local Erasmus Student Network (ESN) chapters, organize regular cultural events, integration activities, and city tours, while student status unlocks discounts at local museums, theaters, and historical sites across the city.

Cost of Living

€950–€1,400 per month

Student Housing

€500–€800 per month (CROUS or private colocation)

Public Transport

~€26–€32.50 per month (TCL pass; buses, trams, metro, funiculars)

Popular Neighborhoods

Vieux Lyon, La Part-Dieu, 7th Arrondissement

Community & Support

University international desks, local ESN chapters, youth cultural discounts

Exchange Rooms

Exchange Rooms can help you secure housing in Lyon. Search for rooms in the area or learn more and make an account!

Good luck finding housing, we’re rooting for you!