Lyon: the best neighborhoods for expatriates

Why choose Lyon as an expatriation destination?

Lyon attracts many international employees thanks to its diversified economy, efficient transport network and balanced lifestyle.

A major economic hub in France

The Lyon metropolitan area hosts several key industrial and technological sectors: healthcare, biotechnology, chemistry, digital and engineering.

International companies such as Sanofi, Bosch, Bayer and IBM have significant operations in the region.

The Gerland district notably hosts the Biodistrict, one of Europe’s main hubs dedicated to life sciences.

Strategic accessibility across Europe

Lyon benefits from a privileged geographical location between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean basin.

The city is connected to Paris in two hours by high-speed train (TGV) and has an international airport, Lyon–Saint-Exupéry, with connections to many European capitals.

Urban transport infrastructure continues to evolve. Metro line B has been extended to Saint-Genis-Laval, and the tramway network is regularly expanding, improving access to major business districts such as Part-Dieu, Gerland and Confluence.

A recognized quality of life

Lyon offers the advantages of a major city while maintaining a more relaxed pace than some European capitals.

The city includes many green spaces, notably the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of the largest urban parks in France.

It also offers a rich cultural life, with the Opéra de Lyon, numerous museums, and events such as the Festival of Lights and the Lumière Festival.

The role of relocation agencies in Lyon

Finding accommodation in an unfamiliar city is one of the main challenges faced by expatriates.

Relocation agencies in Lyon support international employees with housing searches, rental application files and administrative procedures related to settling in.

Their support makes it possible to:

identify the most suitable neighborhoods based on the employee’s profile
 organise viewings remotely or before arrival
 facilitate administrative procedures (utility contracts, insurance, schooling)

This type of support also exists in other major French cities such as Paris or Bordeaux, where real estate market conditions may differ.

Key criteria for choosing where to live in Lyon

The choice of neighborhood mainly depends on three factors: workplace location, family situation and access to transport.

Proximity to the workplace

The TCL network connects the entire metropolitan area through metro, tramway and bus lines. Major employment hubs include Part-Dieu, Gerland, Confluence and Vaise.

Living close to these areas can significantly reduce daily commuting time.

International schools and infrastructure

For expatriate families, the presence of international schools is often a decisive factor.

The city hosts institutions such as the Lycée International de Lyon in Gerland and the International School of Lyon.

Residential areas such as Montchat, Monplaisir and Caluire-et-Cuire are particularly sought after by families.

Accessibility and TCL transport network

Lyon continues to invest in its mobility infrastructure.

The extension of metro line B and the expansion of the tramway network (lines T1 to T7) improve access to economic and university areas.

This development also increases the attractiveness of neighborhoods located on the outskirts.

The best neighborhoods for expatriates in Lyon

Each Lyon neighborhood has a distinct identity and attracts different expatriate profiles.

Presqu’île: the historic and lively city center

Located between the Rhône and Saône rivers, the Presqu’île is the commercial and cultural heart of the city.

Expatriates appreciate the availability of charming small apartments, proximity to shops and restaurants, easy access to transport, and vibrant cultural and nightlife.

This central area is particularly suited to active professionals and short-term assignments.

Confluence: a modern and international district

Formerly an industrial area, Confluence has undergone major urban transformation.

The district features modern buildings and office spaces, as well as cultural venues such as the Musée des Confluences. It also offers numerous shops and restaurants that contribute to its dynamic atmosphere.

This area attracts expatriates working in international companies and innovative environments.

Monplaisir and Montchat: ideal for families

Located in the 3rd and 8th districts, these residential neighborhoods offer a calm, family-friendly environment.

Expatriates find townhouses and spacious apartments and appreciate the proximity to schools and family-oriented infrastructure.

These areas offer a good balance between urban living and tranquility.

Vaise: a rapidly developing area

Located in the 9th district, Vaise is attracting more and more international employees.

The area offers direct access to metro line D, proximity to numerous companies and offices, and more affordable rents than in the city center.

Nearby towns that also attract expatriates

Some expatriates choose to live in municipalities surrounding Lyon.

Villeurbanne, Caluire-et-Cuire, Oullins and Tassin-la-Demi-Lune offer more spacious housing while remaining well connected to the city center via metro and tramway.

Recent extensions of public transport further increase the attractiveness of these areas for employees working in the metropolitan area.

Making your move to Lyon easier

Settling into a new city involves several logistical steps. You need to find accommodation and equip the apartment before being able to organise daily life.

For expatriates on short- or medium-term assignments, furniture rental simplifies the process.

Homat, a specialist in furniture and appliance rental for over 30 years, supports companies and relocation agencies in quickly equipping housing for expatriate employees across France.