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Yes, the analysis of Lyon's property market is included in our pack
Have you ever considered investing in real estate in Lyon? You're not alone!
Many people are captivated by Lyon's culinary delights and dream of owning a modern apartment or a traditional townhouse in this city.
Is it a wise investment, though? Are property prices increasing in Lyon? Is it expensive? Should I buy property in the Presqu'île or Croix-Rousse? Are there any secret taxes? Can I get a very good rental yield? Where?
We've solved it for you.
The Investropa team has really dug into this market. As a matter of fact, we've compiled all our findings in one pack. Get it now.
In the lines below, we'll share useful information and some practical tips.
How is the property market in Lyon?
Is the property market going up or down? Let's look at fresh data and statistics.
Property types
In Lyon, you can find a diverse range of properties for sale to suit various preferences and budgets.
The types of properties available include apartments, houses, townhouses, and villas. Apartments are ideal for individuals or small families looking for a convenient urban lifestyle, while houses cater to those seeking more space and a traditional living experience. Townhouses offer a mix of city living and suburban charm, often with historical significance.
For those seeking a luxurious and spacious option, villas might be the perfect fit.
Whether you prefer a bustling city environment or a tranquil suburban setting, Lyon's real estate market has something for everyone.
Should you buy or rent?
(In case you want it for yourself, not for rental purposes)
Whether you're already living in Lyon or planning to move to this French city, you might be weighing the options of buying a home or opting for a rental property.
Without a doubt, you should buy if you want to acquire equity and have the potential to benefit from appreciation in property value over time.
One data can help you make a decision - the property price-to-rent ratio. This metric give an indication of how many years of rental income it would take to cover the cost of buying a property at its current price.
According to Numbeo, the property price-to-rent ratio in Lyon is around 30.68, which is significantly above the world average.
This value shows that it would take you 31 long years of paying rents before you can own a property in Lyon. Renting for such an extended period means you wouldn't be building any equity, and you might end up spending more money without gaining ownership of the property.
Housing prices in Lyon
On average, according to the last data from National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), buying a property in Lyon would cost you around $6,000 per square meter.
It's evident that there are significant disparities. A city-center apartment in Lyon might have a different price per square meter than a suburban house in Villeurbanne. We actually give you a more detailed breakdown in our pack for buying property in Lyon and in France.
To help you understand better, it means that, instead of purchasing a flat in Manhattan, you can obtain 2 properties in Lyon.
Also, housing prices in Lyon are 25% cheaper than in the South of France.
The most expensive neighbourhoods in Lyon are probably La Part-Dieu, La Presqu'île, La Croix-Rousse and Gerland, while the cheapest are likely to be in the suburbs of Vaulx-en-Velin, Vénissieux and Villeurbanne.
Trends
First and foremost, we have to acknowledge that France currently stands out for its remarkable stability. The last Fragile State Index that has been reported for this place is 30.9.
Consider this when wondering if it's a good investment to buy a property in Lyon.
Also, according to the IMF’s forecasts, France's economy is expected to soar by 6.7% in the coming 5 years, resulting in an average GDP growth rate of 1.3%.
If you intend to invest in real estate in Lyon it's a good thing because, as the economy grows, people's incomes (usually) increase, motivating them to invest in real estate, which causes a rise in property demand and prices.
Also, in France, the average GDP per capita has changed by 1.7% over the last 5 years. Though not substantial, there is still a positive trend of growth.
Looking for more updated data? We've done a big-picture study to find out if it's a good idea to purchase property in France right now.
Buying property in Lyon
It can be difficult to buy property in Lyon due to the lack of reliable and up-to-date information available on the market. That's why we have created the pack to buy property in Lyon and in France.
Buying process
Inside our pack, we've outlined the complete buying process, including a detailed breakdown of prices and yields per area, tips for negotiating the price, and information about mortgage options.
Here, we're presenting you with a more straightforward version.
This is the step-by-step process to purchase a property in Lyon:
- Research Lyon's property market and local regulations.
- Obtain a French bank account and secure financing if required.
- Appoint a licensed real estate agent specialized in Lyon properties.
- Visit properties, considering factors like proximity to public transport and amenities.
- Make an offer in writing (promesse d'achat) and negotiate with the seller.
- Sign a compromis de vente (preliminary contract) including property details and conditions.
- Hire a notary to conduct property searches and prepare the acte de vente (final contract).
- Provide specific documents like proof of identity, residency, and financial capability.
- Complete surveys and inspections (diagnostics techniques) mandated by French law.
- Obtain the final mortgage approval and insurance.
- Attend the final signing (acte de vente) with the notary, seller, and agent.
- Pay fees, taxes, and registration costs, then receive the property keys and ownership.
Also, if you're not from the country, you might want to check our article on how to buy property as a foreigner in France.
Make a profitable investment in Lyon
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Where to find a property
Discover these websites for finding properties in Lyon:
- French Entrée - An all-inclusive guide to property purchase and life in France, featuring listings, guides, and lifestyle articles.
- My French House - An award-winning property portal specializing in houses, villas, and properties for sale in France. They offer expert advice and a tailored home hunting service.
- French Property - A premier online portal for property in France, providing a wide array of properties for sale and rent.
- Houses & Appartments - A leading real estate website offering a broad selection of apartments and houses for sale in diverse locations in France.
- Realestate.com.au - Providing a vast range of properties for sale and rent, along with information on new homes, agents, lifestyle, news, and commercial properties.
Also, know that we have included contacts of real estate agencies, property lawyers, moving companies, expats communities and more in our pack for buying property in France.
What you can get
As mentioned before, the average price per sqm in Lyon is $6,000. A 1-bedroom property, which is 60 square meters in size, would cost approximately $360,000, and a 2-bedroom property, which is 85 square meters in size, would cost approximately $510,000.
However, the cost of properties will fluctuate depending on both their characteristics and their location.
Typically, nice neighborhoods in Lyon are more expensive. An apartment in the 6th Arrondissement could be about $690,000, whereas a property in the 2nd Arrondissement might be priced at $640,000.
Yet, there are places that are easier on the wallet. You may find a house in Vaise for $460,000, or a house in Moulin à Vent priced only at $380,000.
Find a more detailed price list in our full pack for buying property in France.
Common mistakes
Here are the main pitfalls specific to buying property in Lyon, France:
- Historical property restrictions: Preservation rules may limit renovations or alterations.
- Notaire fees: High legal fees can significantly impact the overall cost.
- Leaseback investments: Potential rental income may not meet expectations.
- Co-ownership disputes: Disagreements with other owners can arise.
- Local taxes: Additional levies like "taxe foncière" and "taxe d'habitation" can be substantial.
- Heritage protection: Owning a heritage property may involve complex regulations.
- Language barrier: Understanding contracts and negotiations in French can be challenging.
- Notarial deeds: Strict requirements and timelines for completing transactions.
We don't want this to happen to you, so we have included a full checklist for your property investment in our pack of documents. Avoid these mistakes and save a lot of money.
Everything you need to know is included in our France Property Pack
Living in Lyon
Living in Lyon is a great experience, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful scenery, it's an ideal place to buy property.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Lyon is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Prices for basic necessities such as food and housing are generally lower than in many other European cities.
Here are some examples to better understand the cost of living in Lyon:
- Monthly rent for a cozy apartment in the trendy Croix-Rousse neighborhood: €900-€1,500.
- A glass of local Lyon Beaujolais wine at a traditional bouchon restaurant: €4-€8.
- Monthly transportation pass for buses, trams, and metro within Lyon: €60-€80.
- A cup of traditional Lyon-style coffee with a praline tart: €3-€5.
- Admission to the Musée des Confluences: €9-€12.
- Monthly membership at a Lyon-based fitness studio or yoga studio: €40-€80.
- Fresh produce from the Saint Antoine Market for a week: €20-€40.
- A bottle of local Côtes du Rhône wine (e.g., Guigal or Chapoutier) from a wine shop: €10-€20.
Neighbourhoods
We want to make the information easy to understand and enjoyable to read. So, we made a table that shows all the different areas in Lyon. For yields, prices and rents, check our property pack.
| Neighborhood | Description | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|---|
Vieux Lyon is the historic district with charming Renaissance architecture and narrow cobblestone streets, offering a glimpse into Lyon's rich cultural heritage. | Historic charm, cultural landmarks, and excellent dining options. | Tourist crowds, limited parking, and higher property prices. | |
Presqu'île | Presqu'île is the bustling city center, located between the Rhône and Saône rivers, known for its shopping streets, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. | Central location, lively atmosphere, and diverse entertainment. | Noisy at night, traffic congestion, and higher cost of living. |
La Croix-Rousse | La Croix-Rousse is a bohemian neighborhood with a rich history in silk-weaving, now filled with artists' studios, unique boutiques, and panoramic views of the city. | Artistic vibe, panoramic views, and a strong sense of community. | Steep hills, limited parking, and fewer mainstream amenities. |
Part-Dieu | Part-Dieu is a modern business district featuring the iconic Part-Dieu Tower, a major transportation hub, and a wide array of shopping and dining options. | Transportation links, commercial hub, and various amenities. | Lack of historic charm, crowded during rush hours, and higher levels of pollution. |
Gerland | Gerland is a dynamic neighborhood known for its sports facilities, universities, and green spaces like the Parc de Gerland. | Sports amenities, educational institutions, and recreational parks. | Limited nightlife, fewer cultural attractions, and distant from the city center. |
Guillotière | Guillotière is a diverse and multicultural neighborhood with a lively atmosphere, offering a wide range of international cuisines and cultural events. | Cultural diversity, vibrant nightlife, and affordable dining options. | Noisy at times, occasional safety concerns, and limited green spaces. |
Confluence | Confluence is a modern and eco-friendly neighborhood with innovative architecture, waterfront promenades, and a mix of residential and commercial spaces. | Contemporary design, sustainable living, and proximity to the rivers. | Expensive housing, limited historical sites, and less greenery. |
Monplaisir | Monplaisir is a peaceful residential area with elegant buildings, local markets, and a relaxed ambiance. | Quiet surroundings, good schools, and family-friendly environment. | Lack of nightlife, fewer entertainment options, and limited public transport. |
Saint-Just | Saint-Just is a historic neighborhood located on Fourvière Hill, known for its ancient Roman ruins, basilica, and panoramic views. | Rich history, stunning views, and cultural significance. | Hilly terrain, limited shopping options, and fewer restaurants. |
Life in Lyon
Lyon is a major economic hub in France, with a wide variety of industries ranging from tourism to banking and finance. It is also a key player in the global economy, with many multinational companies and a strong focus on innovation and research.
What expats usually like the most in Lyon is its vibrant cultural life, with many museums, art galleries, theatres, and music venues, as well as its excellent food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants and food markets.
You should be aware that, regrettably, Lyon isn't one of the safest cities globally. Currently, the crime rate index is at 54, which is not low. The most common crimes in Lyon are property crimes such as theft, burglary, and vandalism.
A good point for a property investor - Lyon has an extensive public transportation network, including a metro system, tramways, and buses.
Access to healthcare in Lyon is generally good, with a variety of public and private healthcare options available.
Finally, it is worth noting that Lyon has two top-tier universities: the École Normale Supérieure de Lyon and the Claude Bernard University Lyon 1.
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Renting out in Lyon
If you're interested in buying property not to live in, but to rent out and generate income, this section is for you.
Long-term
Tenant Profiles in Lyon
According to the data reported by Wikipedia, the home ownership rate in France is 65%, which is average.
It means that, if you decide to buy and rent out in Lyon, there will be a good number of people who can become your potential tenants.
If you decide to buy and rent out to long-term tenants, you should target young professionals, students, and families, as these groups are the most common in the city of Lyon. Additionally, the city is home to a large number of expats, so targeting this demographic could be beneficial as well.
Here is a little summary table we've made for you.
| Property type and area | Profiles of potential tenants | What they are looking for | Expected monthly rent in $ |
|---|---|---|---|
Studio in Presqu'île | Students, young professionals | Central location, nightlife | $600 - $1,200 |
1-Bedroom Apartment in Croix-Rousse | Professionals, couples | Artistic district, local markets | $800 - $1,600 |
2-Bedroom Flat in Part-Dieu | Professionals, families | Business hub, public transport | $1,000 - $2,000 |
Apartment in Vieux Lyon | Tourists, history enthusiasts | Historic charm, river views | $700 - $1,500 |
3-Bedroom House in Tête d'Or | Families, professionals | Parks, schools, quiet area | $1,500 - $3,000 |
Apartment in Guillotière | Students, young professionals | Multicultural area, affordable | $600 - $1,200 |
1-Bedroom Flat in Gerland | Professionals, students | Near universities, sports facilities | $700 - $1,400 |
Rental yields
As of today, rental yields in Lyon are floating around 2 or 3%. It's low. A good rental yield is typically considered to be around 7% or higher (you might know it already).
Rental yields in Lyon are generally highest for properties located in the city centre, due to the high demand for rental accommodation in this area and the proximity to amenities and transport links. Additionally, properties in more affordable areas such as Villeurbanne and Vénissieux can also offer good rental yields, as there is a strong demand for rental accommodation in these areas.
For further explanation and a more detailed breakdown, you can check the reports and analyses we have made.
Finally, be aware that rental incomes in Lyon are taxed at 48%, which is very high.
Short-term
You could also decide to rent short-term to students, business travelers, and tourists visiting Lyon for its historical sites, cultural attractions, and nightlife. Additionally, Lyon is a popular destination for international conferences and events, making it a great place to rent short-term for those attending such events.
If you decide to go with that option, look for properties in the Presqu'île area, particularly around Place Bellecour and the Old Town, as they are popular tourist spots and offer plenty of attractions. Additionally, the Croix-Rousse district is a great location to consider, as it is very close to the city center and is a lively area with lots of restaurants and cafes.
Currently, there are approximately 5,000 active Airbnb listings in Lyon, reflecting a highly dynamic and bustling short-term rental market. The average daily rate stands around $98.
You have the opportunity to generate a nice additional income stream then. According to online testimonials and analytics platform like AirDNA, Guesty and Inside Airbnb, people who offer short-term rentals in Lyon can make around $1600 per month. Also, the average occupancy rate is estimated at 74%.
Is it worth buying real estate in Lyon then?
Buying a property in Lyon can be a smart move for those who want to plant roots and call this beautiful city home. Lyon's stable property market, coupled with France's projected economic growth, indicates a promising investment opportunity.
If you plan to live in Lyon for the long haul, buying a property allows you to build equity and potentially benefit from rising property values over time. Plus, Lyon's diverse property options mean there's something for everyone, whether you prefer a trendy apartment or a cozy villa.
However, if you're looking for a quick financial win or plan to stay in Lyon only temporarily, buying property might not be the best choice. The high property price-to-rent ratio in Lyon means it could take decades of renting before you recoup the costs of buying.
The steep rental income tax rate of 48% can further eat into potential profits. Additionally, if you're unfamiliar with the local language and regulations, navigating Lyon's real estate market may be challenging. In such cases, renting might be a more practical and cost-effective option.
So, while buying property in Lyon can be a wise move for some, it's essential to align your goals and circumstances with the city's real estate landscape before taking the plunge.
Make sure you understand the real estate market in Lyon
Don't rush into buying the wrong property in France. Sit, relax and read our guide to avoid costly mistakes and make the best investment possible.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement or advice. While we strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee the completeness or reliability of the information, including text, images, links, or other elements in this material. Following the content and analyses presented here does not assure specific outcomes. For guidance tailored to your individual circumstances, it is recommended to consult with a professional, such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor.