Housing in Paris: Best Places to Live in Paris for Expats
Is your housing horror preventing you from preparing for Parisian paradise? At Spotahome we have some advice which may help you choose where to live…
This daunting decision involves comparing 20 districts that range from family friendly, student centric and budget based options. Not only is it impossible to narrow down a long list of neighbourhoods, but the language barrier can frighten even the most fearless accommodation aficionados.
The struggle is real, and this is why we have compiled this blog post to help you sail through the process and settle smoothly into your new home…
Soldiers in Front of the Eiffel Tower, Paris
…Family Friendly
Moving to Paris with a young family is manageable if the correct neighbourhood is selected:
Luxembourg – for Housing Near Le Palais du Luxembourg
- Luxembourg (6ème)
Luxembourg, the 6th arrondissement is one of Paris’s most central districts. Despite its location, Luxembourg is a relatively quiet, residential area that is popular amongst young families. Home to the picturesque Jardins du Luxembourg, this neighbourhood is the perfect retreat for families who like to relax outside together during the weekend. Often referred to as a quintessential Parisian neighbourhood, this area is renowned for its café culture and long history of intellectual activity. It is pleasant to traverse Luxembourg on foot, but if you have tired children in tow you can access different areas of France’s capital by public transport.
Housing in Passy – Pont de Bir-Hakeim
- Passy (16ème)
Passy is Paris’s 16th arrondissement and is considered one of the city’s most affluent and secure residential neighbourhoods with a wide selection of housing. This area is ideal for those who are searching for stellar schools to send their children to. The Jardins du Trocadéro can be found in Passy, these picturesque gardens are home to Paris’s aquarium and are a site from which you can enjoy elegant views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. If you have seen Inception, you may recognise the Pont de Bir-Hakeim that is pictured above. Passy provides fun for all the family, with several sporting venues and the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’s 2nd largest public park. This neighbourhood is well-connected to different areas in the city through public transport.
…Student Centric
Paris is renowned for its nightlife and vibrant LGBT scene. If you are a student, who can blame you for wanting to live in the centre of it all?
Housing in Panthéon – Live Near the Burial Place of Famous Intellectuals
- Panthéon (5ème)
Panthéon, or the Latin Quarter is Paris’s 5th arrondissement and is a favourite for students as it is the site of several universities. This neighbourhood is certainly crammed with architectural feats and famous landmarks. If you are studying Voltaire, Rousseau or Victor Hugo, you might want to visit the Panthéon; the final resting place of these influential intellectuals. Students also flock to this neighbourhood for its eclectic nightlife, so hang out here if you wish to rendezvous with French students.
Housing in Oberkampf – The Cirque d’Hiver, an Entertaining Pause From Partying
- Oberkampf (11ème)
If you have a budget, Oberkampf, or the 11th arrondissement, is a diverse, popular haunt for students and partygoers. This neighbourhood boasts an assortment of trendy venues and quirky bars, it is even possible to stumble upon post-party food outlets after 3am. This district is one of Paris’s best kept secrets – drinks cost half as much here as they do in more touristic areas. Oberkampf is close to the city centre and well-connected to all areas of Paris by public transport.
…If you’re on a budget
Although not quite as expensive as London, Paris is a capital city and housing prices can burn holes in even a penny pincher’s purse.
Spot a Home Near Paris’s Historic Place de la Bastille
- Bastille (Paris 12ème)
Bastille is Paris’s 12th arrondissement, and is a favourite amongst those who seek less pricey housing in a safe area that is well-connected to the city centre. Otherwise known as Reuilly, this district is home to the Gare de Lyon and the 2,460 acre Bois de Vincennes. Place de la Bastille played a key role in the French Revolution, so this area is not only affordable but filled with history.
Find Housing in a Romantic Setting – This Peaceful Canal is a Favourite Amongst Lovers
- Enclos St. Laurent (Paris 10ème)
Predominantly residential, Paris’s 10th arrondissement boasts a variety of less expensive housing whilst neighbouring the vibrant, party neighbourhood that is Oberkampf. Residents enjoy strolling along the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin that features in Amélie, or enjoying a beverage in one of the unique bars and cafés that are scattered across the neighbourhood.
Where do you think is the best place to call home in Paris?
If you enjoyed this post, check out more of our France-related articles:
- 10 Things I Learned While Living in Paris as an Erasmus Student
- How To: Find an Apartment in Paris
- 7 fancy things to do in Paris on a student’s budget
- Paris Tips from a Local: Secret Places, Top Spots and More
- 7 Books to Read Before Moving to France
- Which is Better, Paris or Lyon?