Top 10 Best Student Cities in France
Settling down in a city for several years of study is a big deal! It’s where you’ll grow, discover new passions, and build friendships that could last a lifetime. Each city has its own vibe, its own energy—but which one is right for you? This top 10 best student cities in France will help you figure it out. Take notes, you’ll need them!
The Criteria for Ranking Student Cities
Quality of Life and Academic Environment
Studying in a pleasant city makes all the difference. Who could say no to revision breaks on the banks of the Rhône in Lyon, under the Montpellier sun, or in Toulouse’s cozy atmosphere? These cities consistently rank high thanks to their perfect blend of lifestyle and higher education.
Infrastructure matters too! Cities like Grenoble and Rennes invest heavily in modern facilities—study spaces, sports complexes, chill-out zones. It’s all about working hard and enjoying life at the same time.
Cost of Living and Housing Accessibility
Let’s talk about the tough stuff. We all know the cost of living (food, going out, etc.), and especially rent, is the biggest headache for students. Cities like Paris, Bordeaux, and Lyon are known for their high rental prices.
Looking for something more affordable? Check out Rennes, Caen, Lille, or Nantes. Some cities even offer help with transport or meals so you can breathe a little easier. Every bit helps!
Cultural Scene and Student Activities
Time to step out of the lecture halls! Because yes, student life is more than endless study sessions. Balance is key: have fun, explore, and unwind.
Montpellier is a sure bet. Concerts, festivals, student parties—the fun never stops. Strasbourg boasts amazing heritage and a diverse cultural calendar for art lovers. Rennes thrives on student associations. You’re bound to find a cause or a club that suits you.
Ranking of the 10 Best Student Cities
1. Lyon: The Perfect Student Balance
With around 145,000 students, it’s no surprise Lyon tops the list. Its universities—Lyon 1, Lyon 2, Lyon 3, ENS, and INSA—attract thousands every year.
The city blends history and innovation effortlessly. Vieux Lyon takes you back in time, while the futuristic Confluencedistrict is all glass and steel. Get ready to experience Nuits Sonores (electro heaven!) or the dazzling Fête des Lumières.
The transport network (metro, tram, bus) is reliable and the Alps are just a short trip away. Downsides? Rent can be steep in the center. But don’t worry—more affordable options are available, like our student residence in Lyon. There’s a place for everyone.
2. Toulouse: A Friendly, Energetic City
With 130,000 students, top-tier schools, and major employers like Airbus, Toulouse is ideal for tech, aerospace, or engineering enthusiasts. But don’t think it’s all work and no play!
When the sun’s out (and it often is!), head to Saint-Cyprien or Saint-Pierre for buzzing terraces, lively nights, and a laid-back vibe—even during exams.
Toulouse remains relatively affordable, although rents in the center are creeping up. Public transport (metro, trams, buses) makes it easy to find budget-friendly housing, like our student residence in Toulouse. You’ll love it here!
3. Grenoble: Study with a View
Want to combine studying with the great outdoors? Head to Grenoble! Third on the podium, the city welcomes around 60,000 students. With the Université Grenoble Alpes and the CEA, it’s a hub for physics, biotech, and IT.
But the best part? Nature’s right outside your door. Skiing, hiking, even paragliding—grab your backpack and escape the books anytime.
Living costs are manageable, and there are plenty of student accommodations close to campus, like our residence in Grenoble. Bonus: it’s super bike-friendly!
4. Bordeaux: Exceptional Quality of Life
Bordeaux draws 90,000 students each year with its revamped riverfronts and charming streets. The University of Bordeaux shines in law, health, and humanities, while KEDGE and Bordeaux INP lead to great careers.
The nightlife? Awesome. Head to Place de la Victoire or Saint-Michel for drinks and music. And when summer hits, the beaches of Arcachon and Lacanau are just an hour away.
Yes, rent can be pricey. But the tram and bus network helps you access cheaper options, including our student residences in Bordeaux. You’ll feel right at home.
5. Rennes: A Student-Friendly City
With 70,000 students, Rennes has the perks of a big city without the downsides. Rennes 1 and Rennes 2 are well-known in sciences, law, and humanities, along with Sciences Po Rennes and INSA.
Thursday nights are legendary. Place Sainte-Anne and the infamous “rue de la Soif” overflow with energy. For culture lovers, the Trans Musicales are a must.
Rennes has two automatic metro lines and a great bike-sharing system. Whether you’re downtown or in our student residence in Rennes, getting around is a breeze.
6. Nantes: Innovation Meets Warmth
Home to over 55,000 students, Nantes is a hub of innovation and creativity. The University of Nantes is a leader in science and tech, while schools like Audencia and Centrale Nantes are globally recognized.
Culturally, it’s a goldmine. From concerts at Le Lieu Unique to the giant Machines de l’île, you’ll never be bored. Want a break? The coastline’s just a short ride away.
Need housing? We’ve got you covered at our student residences in Nantes. Life’s better when it’s shared.
7. Montpellier: Sunny and Affordable
Montpellier hosts 76,000 students and enjoys almost year-round sun. Its medical school is one of the oldest in Europe, and the city excels in law, political science, and tech.
Beach nearby? Yes! Palavas-les-Flots and Carnon are just a tram ride away. The city’s cultural scene shines with Montpellier Danse and the Guitar Festival.
Rents can be high near campus, but you’ll find your perfect fit at our student residences in Montpellier.
8. Strasbourg: A European Cultural Hub
Strasbourg welcomes over 50,000 students each year. Its university is a top name in law and politics, thanks to the presence of the European Parliament and Court of Human Rights.
The city looks like a postcard—half-timbered houses, canals, and Christmas markets. Events like Les Nuits Européennes and a strong green culture make Strasbourg stand out.
Its tram network and bike lanes simplify daily life. Need housing? Check out our student residence in Strasbourg.
9. Lille: Warm, Affordable, and Well Located
Lille is booming with 100,000 students and top schools like the University of Lille, Sciences Po Lille, and EDHEC.
It’s also incredibly well located: Brussels, London, and Amsterdam are just a train ride away. Culture-wise, don’t miss Lille 3000, the famous flea market, and the Palais des Beaux-Arts.
Rent is reasonable, and you’ll love the vibe at our student residence in Lille. Join a bold and friendly student community.
10. Marseille: A Mediterranean Student Boomtown
Marseille is home to over 90,000 students and a breathtaking setting. Aix-Marseille University, the largest French-speaking university, offers diverse programs in law, economics, health, and arts. Schools like KEDGE and Centrale Marseille complete the picture.
The city’s essence? The Mediterranean Sea. Chill at Prado Beach, hike in the calanques, or stroll the Old Port. Culture is everywhere: MUCEM, Marsatac… there’s always something happening.
Need a place? You’ll feel at home in our student residence in Marseille. Let’s make your student years unforgettable.
How to Choose the Student City That’s Right for You
Consider Your Field of Study
Some cities truly stand out in specific fields. If you’re aiming to specialize in business, engineering, or healthcare, head to Lyon. More into tech? Toulouse is the hub for aerospace and research. Grenoble is also an excellent choice for digital sciences and innovation.
Interested in the environment or cultural heritage? Bordeaux has plenty to offer. Rennes excels in social sciences and digital studies, while Nantes and Strasbourg are a dream come true for creatives, with renowned art and architecture schools.
Set Your Priorities: Budget, Location, and Lifestyle
If you’re trying to stay on budget, be cautious with cities like Lyon or Bordeaux—they can be pricey! On the flip side, cities like Rennes, Lille, or Nantes tend to be much more budget-friendly.
Need to stay close to home? Rennes and Lille are very well connected by train, making trips back and forth super easy. If you’re chasing the sun and beaches, Montpellier is waiting for you. Prefer skiing and mountains? Grenoble is a must. And if you’re into big, multicultural cities full of life, Marseille might be the perfect match.
Look Into Student Support and Local Infrastructure
Don’t forget—most major cities offer financial aid for students, like APL (housing assistance). Many of our residences are eligible too!
When it comes to getting around, Lyon and Strasbourg are excellent examples with their well-developed metro and tram systems. More into biking? You’ll love Grenoble, with its amazing network of bike lanes.
And remember—student life isn’t just about classes! Cities like Toulouse and Montpellier offer loads of activities. You’ll never run out of things to do or people to meet.
So, have you found the city where you’ll live the best years of your life?
We hope this guide helped you figure things out—and if you need more info, just reach out. Take the leap—we’re here to support you every step of the way!
FAQ – How to choose the right student city
By the start of the 2025 academic year, the number of higher education students in France is expected to reach 3,018,400, according to projections from the French Ministry of Higher Education. That’s an increase of 0.7% compared to the previous year—around +20,400 students.
This figure includes students enrolled in universities, technical institutes (IUTs), BTS programs, grandes écoles, engineering schools, and other specialized institutions.
Paris is by far the city with the largest student population in France, with over 700,000 students enrolled in higher education. It alone accounts for nearly a quarter of all students nationwide.
Check out our student residences in Paris if you’re planning to study in the capital.
