🏙️France
Lyon
Lyon offers world-class food culture and affordable living - complete guide to France's gastronomic capital.
👥
Population
1.2 million
⭐
Highlight
Gastronomic capital with business opportunities
🗺️
Country
France
🌬️
Air Quality
35 (Good)
Gastronomic capital and major business center with excellent quality of life
Quick stats
Cost Index
72/100
Rent (1BR center)
€800–1,800/month
Median Salary
€38,000–60,000 gross
Internet
150–300 Mbps
Safety
Very safe
Transport
Metro, trams, buses, Vélo'v bikes
Areas & industries
Popular Neighborhoods
Vieux LyonPresqu'îleCroix-RoussePart-DieuVilleurbanneConfluence
Key Sectors
BiotechnologyPharmaceuticalsFinanceTechnologyGastronomyTextilesChemicals
✓ Advantages
- •World-famous culinary scene
- •Much more affordable than Paris
- •Growing tech and biotech sectors
- •Excellent location in Europe
- •UNESCO World Heritage old town
- •Great work-life balance
! Considerations
- •Smaller international job market
- •Less English-speaking environment
- •Limited nightlife compared to Paris
- •Industrial areas mixed with residential
Lyon FAQs
Good alternative to Paris?
Yes - 30% cheaper living costs, excellent food scene, growing biotech sector, but fewer international opportunities.
Best for food lovers?
Absolutely - capital of French gastronomy with traditional bouchons, Michelin restaurants, and vibrant food markets.
🤖Ask ExpatLife AI