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Cost of Living in Lyon, France

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Written by Kittenproperties

04.08.2023

Introduction

Lyon is the third-largest city in France and is known for its rich history, cultural scene, and economic importance. Situated in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, it's a vibrant city that offers an attractive quality of life. The cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, but this guide will provide an overview of what you can expect.Living in Lyon, France, offers an enchanting blend of tradition and modernity. But understanding the cost of living in this vibrant city is essential for anyone considering a move. In this extended guide, we'll explore further into the costs associated with everyday needs, rent, buying property, transportation, and more.

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Everyday Needs

Grocery Costs

Shopping for groceries in Lyon is generally in line with the French average, with the following approximate costs: - Bread: €1.10 - Milk (1 liter): €1.00 - Eggs (12): €2.50 - Chicken (1kg): €10.00 - Apples (1kg): €2.20 - Rice (1kg): €1.50 - Bottled water (1.5 liters): €0.60

Dining Out

When dining out in Lyon, you can expect the following approximate costs: - Coffee: €2.50 - Fast-food meal: €8.00 - Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant: €30.00

Clothing and Personal Care

For clothing and personal care items, here are some average prices in Lyon: - Jeans: €50.00 - Running Shoes: €70.00 - Shampoo (400ml): €3.50

Rent and Accommodation

Renting in Lyon

The cost of rent in Lyon varies greatly based on location, property type, and size. Here are approximate monthly rent ranges: - Studio apartment in city center: €600 - €800 - Three-bedroom apartment in city center: €1,200 - €1,700 - Studio apartment outside the city center: €450 - €600 - Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €800 - €1,200

Buying Property

If you are interested in buying property in Lyon, the price per square meter also varies based on location: - Price per square meter in city center: €4,500 - €6,500 - Price per square meter outside city center: €3,000 - €4,000

Utilities and Maintenance

Apart from rent, you should consider monthly utility costs for electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, which typically range from €150 to €200.

Transportation

Public Transportation

Lyon offers public transportation options, and you can buy a monthly pass for around €60.00 or a single ticket for €1.90.

Owning a Car

If you prefer owning a car, you should consider the following expenses: - Gasoline (1 liter): €1.50 - Annual insurance: €500 - €800 - Vehicle registration tax: Varies

Biking and Other Alternatives

Alternatively, you can opt for biking with a bike purchase costing between €200 and €800, or a monthly bike-share subscription for €25.00.

Healthcare and Education

Private Health Insurance

For private health insurance in Lyon, expect to pay around €40 - €80 per month.

Prescription Medicine

Prescription medicine costs can vary depending on the medication and health coverage.

International School Tuition

If you have children and prefer an international school, tuition fees may range from €10,000 to €20,000 per year.

Leisure and Entertainment

Movie Ticket

Going to the movies may cost around €10.00 per ticket.

Gym Membership

For those interested in fitness, gym membership fees typically range from €30.00 to €60.00 per month.

Weekend Getaway

The cost of a weekend getaway can vary based on the destination and activities you choose.

Everyday Needs part № 2

Grocery Shopping

Lyon's markets and grocery stores provide a wide variety of local and international products. Here's a closer look: - Local Produce: Farmers' markets offer fresh and seasonal products often at competitive prices. - Organic Products: Expect to pay slightly more for organic goods. - Discount Stores: Chains like Lidl or Aldi provide budget-friendly options.

Dining and Culinary Scene

Lyon is often referred to as France's culinary capital. Dining ranges from gourmet restaurants to traditional bouchons: - Bouchons: Traditional meals for around €20 - €40. - Gourmet Dining: Renowned chefs' establishments can cost upwards of €100 per person. - Street Food: Delicious alternatives like kebabs or sandwiches for around €5.

Clothing and Fashion

Lyon boasts everything from high-end fashion stores to thrift shops: - Designer Brands: €100 - €1,000+ for items. - High Street Brands: More affordable, with a wide range. - Thrift Stores: Great for bargain hunters, with items as low as €5.

Rent and Accommodation part № 2

Rental Market

Understanding Lyon's districts helps in choosing accommodation: - Presqu'île: Expensive, vibrant city center. - Croix-Rousse: Artsy, medium-priced. - Vieux Lyon: Historic, touristy, varied prices. - Part-Dieu: Business district, modern apartments, moderate to high prices.

Buying Property

Considerations for buying property: - Mortgage Rates: As of this writing, French mortgage rates are relatively low. - Notary Fees: Add approximately 7-10% of the purchase price. - Taxes: Include local taxes and potential wealth taxes.

Transportation part № 2

Public Transportation

Lyon's public transport system is extensive and includes buses, trams, and a subway: - Accessibility: Easily accessible throughout the city. - Discounts: Reduced fares for students, seniors, and low-income families.

Personal Vehicles

Parking: City center parking can be expensive and challenging to find. - Maintenance: Consider regular maintenance costs for owning a car.

Healthcare and Education part № 2

Healthcare

Lyon offers both public and private healthcare options: - Public Healthcare: Accessible to all residents but may require supplemental insurance. - Private Clinics: Offer more personalized care but at a higher cost.

Education

Lyon has a diverse education system: - Public Schools: Free for all residents, with a solid reputation. - Private Schools: May offer bilingual education, with fees ranging from €5,000 - €20,000 annually. - Higher Education: Lyon has several universities and specialty schools, with varying tuition fees.

Leisure and Entertainment part № 2

Museums

Many museums in Lyon offer discounted or free days, making it accessible to everyone.

Theaters and Concerts

Prices for theaters and concerts in Lyon vary widely, from €10 for local performances to €100+ for international acts.

Outdoor Activities

Lyon's proximity to mountains and vineyards offers many affordable or free outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Living in Lyon, France offers a combination of rich culture, a strong economy, and a vibrant lifestyle. While the cost of living can vary greatly based on individual choices and needs, this guide provides a comprehensive overview to help in planning and decision-making.Lyon's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a highly desirable place to live. The cost of living is manageable compared to other major European cities, but careful budgeting is essential to enjoy everything the city has to offer.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Lyon an expensive city to live in?

Lyon is moderately expensive compared to other major European cities. However, it offers a good quality of life and several amenities that balance the cost.

2. What is the average salary in Lyon?

The average salary in Lyon is around €36,000 per year, but this can vary widely depending on the industry and position.

3. Is it easy to find accommodation in Lyon?

Finding accommodation in Lyon may require some time and effort, especially in popular neighborhoods. It is advisable to start searching well in advance and consider both online and local real estate agencies.

4. How is the healthcare system in Lyon?

France has an excellent healthcare system, and Lyon is no exception. Residents can expect high-quality medical care, both in public and private facilities.

5. Is Lyon a good city for families?

Lyon offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including parks, museums, schools, and recreational activities. Many families find Lyon to be a great place to live and raise children.

6. What languages are spoken in Lyon?

French is the primary language, but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas.

7. Is Lyon safe?

Lyon is considered relatively safe, but like any major city, it's wise to take standard precautions, especially at night.

8. What's the weather like in Lyon?

Lyon experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, winters are mild, and there's plenty of rain in spring and autumn.

9. Are pets allowed in rental properties?

Policies vary by landlord. It's essential to check and potentially negotiate this in your lease agreement.

10. How do I open a bank account in Lyon?

Most banks require proof of residence, identification, and possibly a work contract. Some banks offer services specifically for expats.

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