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Best areas to buy and invest in property in Lyon

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property investment Lyon

Yes, the analysis of Lyon's property market is included in our pack

The question of 'the best neighborhood to buy a property in Lyon' does not have a one-size-fits-all answer.

Some of you are buying to live there, while others want to make the best investment possible. Individual preferences and circumstances matter.

That’s why the article below is covering every intent.

At Investropa, when we write a blog post or when we update our our property pack for France, we want to bring solutions and cover different aims in a clear and organized way.

Enjoy the read, and please remember that we are not financial or investment experts. This article is for informational purposes only.

To improve the readability and user-friendliness of this article, we will categorize neighborhoods in Lyon into various groups, including budget-friendly options, emerging hotspots, and areas with high rental demand, among others. Consequently, some neighborhoods may appear in multiple categories and be mentioned several times throughout the article.

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buying property in Lyon

How is the real estate market in Lyon?

The real estate market in Lyon, France, is notably dynamic and vibrant.

This city, rich in history and culture, stands out for several unique strengths that attract a diverse range of buyers, including many foreigners. Let's delve into what makes Lyon so appealing in the real estate world.

Firstly, Lyon's strengths are rooted in its unparalleled blend of historical and modern elements. The city is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, Vieux Lyon, which offers a living history experience unlike any other.

This historic charm is balanced with modern infrastructure and amenities, making Lyon a blend of past and future.

Additionally, its reputation as a gastronomic hub, with cuisine that's world-famous, adds a unique flavor to living in Lyon that you won't find elsewhere.

The demographic interested in buying in Lyon is quite diverse.

Families appreciate the city's safe environment and excellent educational institutions. Young professionals and entrepreneurs are drawn to its dynamic job market, particularly in the thriving tech and biotech sectors.

Foreign investors and expats are particularly attracted to Lyon for its high quality of life, robust healthcare system, and the charm of French living, often at a more affordable cost compared to Paris.

Speaking of dynamism, one key data point that underscores the vibrancy of Lyon's real estate market is its consistently high property value appreciation rate. Lyon has seen a steady increase in property prices over the years, making it a lucrative option for long-term investment.

A unique and positive aspect of Lyon's properties is the presence of traboules in some old apartments. These are hidden passageways that date back to the Renaissance, originally used by silk manufacturers and workers.

Owning a property with a traboule not only offers a unique architectural feature but also a piece of Lyon's rich historical tapestry.

Looking ahead, several factors suggest that properties in Lyon will continue to gain value. The city's ongoing commitment to urban development and infrastructure improvement, such as the development of the Confluence district, is transforming Lyon into a futuristic hub.

Moreover, Lyon's increasing prominence as a European business and cultural center will likely attract more international attention and investment. These developments, coupled with the city's enduring appeal, suggest a bright future for real estate investment in Lyon

Top neighborhoods in Lyon to consider for living

Areas in Lyon that are budget-friendly

If you're looking to buy property in Lyon on a budget, there are a few neighborhoods you might want to consider.

Here is a summary table. Below, we will give more details.

Neighborhood Average Price per Sqm Property Types Resident Demographics Strengths Weaknesses
Vénissieux €2,500 Older apartments, Newer developments Diverse: Young professionals, Families Improving infrastructure, Green spaces Industrial past, Less central
Villeurbanne €3,300 Mid-century apartments, Newer constructions Students, Young professionals Development, Public transport links Gentrifying areas
Bron €2,800 Post-war apartments Families, Older residents Community feel, Green spaces Far from city center, Limited nightlife

Vénissieux

Known for its affordability, Vénissieux offers a mix of older apartments and some newer developments.

Property values in Vénissieux are generally lower due to its past industrial image and distance from central Lyon. However, ongoing urban renewal projects could boost property values in the future.

The average price per square meter in Vénissieux is around €2,500. Residents are diverse, including young professionals and families.

Its strengths lie in its improving infrastructure and green spaces, but it's still overcoming its industrial past and is less central.

Villeurbanne

Adjacent to Lyon, Villeurbanne offers a good balance of price and location.

It's home to various types of properties, including mid-century apartments and newer constructions. The average price per square meter in Villeurbanne hovers around €3,300.

It's popular among students and young professionals due to its proximity to universities and Lyon's city center. The area is expected to appreciate in value due to ongoing development and excellent public transport links.

However, some parts of Villeurbanne are still gentrifying, which is a downside for some.

Bron

This suburb of Lyon offers more affordable housing options, primarily consisting of post-war apartments.

The average price per square meter in Bron is approximately €2,800. It's a favorite among families and older residents, given its peaceful environment and good schools.

Property values in Bron are predicted to rise, thanks to new public transportation projects and urban developments. The area's strengths include its community feel and green spaces.

However, it's further from the city center and lacks the vibrant nightlife of Lyon.

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Areas in Lyon that are popular and upscale

When looking to buy property in Lyon, three neighborhoods stand out as upscale and popular choices. These neighborhoods each have their unique character and draw different types of residents.

Neighborhood Average Price/Sqm Resident Profile Strengths Weaknesses
Presqu'île High Affluent professionals, families Cultural landmarks, high-end shopping Busy city life
Confluence High (Varies) Young professionals, families Modern amenities, eco-friendly Less traditional
Croix-Rousse Relatively high Artists, young professionals, families Community vibe, artistic Hilly terrain

Presqu'île

Nestled between the Rhône and Saône rivers, Presqu'île is the heart of Lyon's luxury.

Properties in Presqu'île are expensive, reflecting the area's prestige and central location. The neighborhood is expected to retain its hype, thanks to its historical architecture and vibrant urban life. You'll find a mix of classic old apartments and some modern developments in Presqu'île.

The average price per square meter in Presqu'île hovers high, reflecting the area's desirability. Residents are typically affluent professionals or families who enjoy the blend of cultural richness and urban convenience.

Strengths include its cultural landmarks and high-end shopping, while downsides are the busy city life and lack of tranquility.

Confluence

This is a more modern and trendy area in Lyon. Prices here are high but offer a different vibe – more contemporary and less historic.

The neighborhood is likely to stay popular due to its innovative urban planning and modern amenities. Property types in Confluence range from sleek apartments to stylish lofts, with an average price per square meter that's high but can vary depending on the building's features.

Confluence attracts a mix of young professionals and families, drawn by its modernity and eco-friendly living.

Strengths are its sustainable design and river views, but the area can feel less traditional and homely.

Croix-Rousse

Known for its bohemian charm, Croix-Rousse is both upscale and artsy.

Properties in Croix-Rousse are pricey due to the area's unique character and city views. The neighborhood is likely to maintain its appeal, thanks to its vibrant community and historical significance.

The housing market is diverse, from renovated old apartments to modern residences, with a relatively high average price per square meter. Residents in Croix-Rousse are a mix of artists, young professionals, and families who value the area's cultural richness and village-like feel.

Its strengths include a strong sense of community and artistic vibe, but it can be quite hilly and less accessible.

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Areas in Lyon that emerge as new hotspots

Let's explore these emerging neighborhoods in Lyon that, according to our local partners and our customers, are getting quite a bit of buzz lately.

Neighborhood Price Trend Resident Profile Strengths Weaknesses
La Guillotière Rising Creatives, students Cultural diversity, vibrant Gentrification pressure
Monplaisir Rising Families, professionals Historical significance, balanced lifestyle Risk of overdevelopment
Vaise Rising Young professionals, families Modern amenities, riverside charm Integration of new and old

La Guillotière

Initially a working-class district, La Guillotière is evolving into a lively, multicultural hub.

This area has gained popularity for its diverse culture and vibrant street life. Prices in La Guillotière are more affordable here compared to traditional upscale areas, making it a magnet for young creatives and students.

The neighborhood's evolution is marked by an influx of trendy cafes and cultural venues, contributing to its growing appeal. Prices in La Guillotière are expected to rise, but La Guillotière should retain its charm as a melting pot of cultures and ideas.

Strengths include its cultural diversity and lively atmosphere, while challenges are gentrification pressures and maintaining its unique identity.

Monplaisir

Known for its historic ties to the Lumière brothers, Monplaisir is transforming from a quiet residential area to a sought-after neighborhood.

Its recent popularity stems from its blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Housing prices in Monplaisir are relatively lower here but are expected to increase as the area gains recognition.

Monplaisir attracts families and professionals seeking a balance between urban life and a sense of community.

Its strengths lie in its historical significance and balanced lifestyle, with the downside being the risk of overdevelopment as it gains popularity.

Vaise

Once an industrial district, Vaise is rapidly becoming a residential favorite.

Its transformation includes new housing developments and improved transportation links, making it more accessible and attractive. Prices in Vaise are lower than in central Lyon but are on the rise due to the area's development.

Vaise is drawing in a mix of young professionals and families, attracted by its blend of urban convenience and riverside charm.

Its strengths are its modern amenities and natural settings, but it faces challenges in integrating the new developments with its historic character.

Make a profitable investment in Lyon

Better information leads to better decisions. Save time and money. Download our guide.

buying property in Lyon