If you’re planning to study in Montpellier, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: what is the cost of a student apartment in Montpellier? As one of France’s most popular university cities, Montpellier offers a vibrant student life, but rents have been rising. In 2025, you can expect to pay between €400 and €800 per month for a typical student apartment, depending on size, location, and whether it’s furnished.
Table des matières:
Average Rent for a Student Apartment in Montpellier
On average, a student apartment in Montpellier costs around €550–€650 per month for a studio or one-bedroom flat. Shared apartments (colocations) are cheaper per person, while larger solo apartments cost more. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Type | Average Monthly Rent (2025) | Typical Size |
|---|---|---|
| Studio (furnished) | €450 – €650 | 18–30 m² |
| One-bedroom (T2) | €600 – €800 | 30–45 m² |
| Room in shared flat | €350 – €500 | 9–15 m² |
| Student residence (CROUS) | €200 – €450 | 9–20 m² |
Note: These are average figures. Actual rents vary by neighborhood, condition, and whether utilities are included.
How Location Affects the Cost of a Student Apartment in Montpellier
Montpellier is divided into several districts, each with its own price range. The cost of a student apartment in Montpellier can differ by €100–€300 depending on where you choose to live.
City Center (Écusson)
The historic center is lively but expensive. A studio here costs €550–€750. You’ll be close to bars, shops, and the university’s Faculty of Medicine and Law, but expect older buildings and less space.
Antigone
Modern, planned district near the Lez river. Studios go for €500–€650. It’s quieter than the center and well-connected by tram.
Port Marianne
Newer, upscale area with higher rents: €600–€800 for a studio. It’s popular with business school students and has good transport links.
Les Beaux-Arts / Gambetta
Student favorite with a bohemian vibe. Studios: €450–€600. Lots of affordable eateries and proximity to the University of Paul Valéry.
Près d’Arènes
Near the train station and tram lines. Studios: €400–€550. Good for commuters, but the area can be noisy.
Celleneuve / La Paillade
Budget option on the outskirts. Studios: €350–€500. Longer travel time to campus, but cheaper rents.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting, remember that rent is just part of the picture. The cost of a student apartment in Montpellier includes these extra expenses:
- Utilities: Electricity, water, internet – usually €50–€100/month if not included.
- Rental deposit: One month’s rent (returned at move-out if no damage).
- Insurance: Mandatory home insurance – about €15–€30/month.
- Furniture: If unfurnished, expect to spend €500–€1000 on basic items.
- Agency fees: If using an estate agent, fees can be up to one month’s rent (capped by law).
- Taxe d’habitation: Usually waived for students with low income, but check.
How to Save on Your Student Apartment in Montpellier
Here are practical ways to reduce the cost of a student apartment in Montpellier:
- Apply for CROUS housing: If eligible, rents start as low as €200/month. Apply early via the Dossier Social Étudiant (DSE).
- Share a flat: Colocation can cut your rent by 30–40% compared to a solo studio.
- Look for rent subsidies: APL (Aide Personnalisée au Logement) from CAF can reduce your rent by €50–€200.
- Choose outer neighborhoods: Living in Celleneuve or La Paillade can save €100–€200 per month.
- Rent directly from owners: Avoid agency fees by searching on platforms like Le Bon Coin or Pap.fr.
- Negotiate: In low season, some landlords accept slightly lower rent.
Checklist: What to Do Before Signing a Lease
- ☐ Check the exact location on a map (tram stop, supermarkets, safety).
- ☐ Visit the apartment in person or via video call.
- ☐ Ask if utilities are included in the rent.
- ☐ Verify the DPE (energy performance certificate) – avoid G-rated apartments.
- ☐ Read the lease carefully, especially the notice period (préavis).
- ☐ Take photos of any existing damage before moving in.
- ☐ Apply for CAF housing benefits as soon as you have a lease.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Student Apartment in Montpellier
Many students overpay or face problems due to these errors:
- Renting without seeing the place: Scams are common. Never send money before viewing.
- Ignoring the lease terms: Some leases have a 3-month notice period instead of the standard 1 month.
- Forgetting about transport costs: A cheap apartment far from campus might cost more in tram passes (about €30/month).
- Skipping insurance: It’s mandatory and cheap – don’t risk it.
- Not applying for CAF immediately: You can apply as soon as you move in; benefits are retroactive.
Types of Student Accommodation in Montpellier
CROUS Residences
State-subsidized rooms and studios. Prices: €200–€450. Very competitive; apply early. Often include basic furniture and shared kitchens.
Private Student Residences
Like Studéa or Les Estudines. Studios: €500–€700. Offer services like laundry, gym, and reception. Often all-inclusive.
Shared Flats (Colocations)
Renting a room in a shared apartment. Per person: €350–€500. Popular among French and international students. Check for colocation agreements (bail individuel or solidaire).
Independent Apartments
Studio or T2 rented directly. Prices: €450–€800. More freedom but higher cost and responsibility.
How to Find a Student Apartment in Montpellier
Use these platforms to compare the cost of a student apartment in Montpellier:
- Le Bon Coin: The largest classifieds site – filter by price, area, and furnished.
- Seloger.com: More professional listings, often with agency fees.
- Studapart: Dedicated to student housing with verified listings.
- Facebook groups: “Colocations Montpellier” or “Logement étudiants Montpellier” – direct from tenants.
- CROUS website: For public student residences.
Understanding the Rental Market in Montpellier
Montpellier is one of the most expensive student cities in France after Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. The cost of a student apartment in Montpellier has increased about 10% over the past three years due to high demand and limited supply. The city hosts over 70,000 students, so competition is fierce, especially in September. Start your search at least 2–3 months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of a Student Apartment in Montpellier
What is the cheapest student accommodation in Montpellier?
CROUS residences offer the lowest rents, from €200 to €450 per month. However, availability is limited. Shared flats in outer districts like Celleneuve can also be affordable, around €350–€450 per room.
Is it cheaper to live in a studio or a shared apartment?
Shared apartments are generally cheaper per person. A room in a colocation costs €350–€500, while a studio costs €450–€650. Sharing also splits utility bills.
Do utilities cost extra in Montpellier student apartments?
Many student residences include water and electricity in the rent, but independent apartments often do not. Always check the lease. If not included, budget €50–€100 extra per month.
How much is the deposit for a student apartment in Montpellier?
The deposit is usually one month’s rent (hors charges) for unfurnished apartments, and up to two months for furnished ones. By law, it cannot exceed two months’ rent.
Can international students rent an apartment in Montpellier?
Yes, but you may need a guarantor in France. If you don’t have one, services like Garantme or Visale (free for students) can act as a guarantor. Some landlords also accept a bank deposit.
When is the best time to find a student apartment in Montpellier?
Start searching in May or June for a September move-in. The market peaks in August and September, with fewer options and higher prices. January intake (for semester students) is less competitive.
Your Next Steps: Finding the Right Student Apartment in Montpellier
Now that you know the cost of a student apartment in Montpellier, it’s time to act. Set a budget (rent + utilities + transport = around €600–€900 total monthly housing cost). Start your search early, compare options, and always verify listings. Apply for CAF and CROUS as soon as possible. With careful planning, you can find a comfortable and affordable place to live while studying in this beautiful Mediterranean city.
Photo by Nastya Dulhiier on Unsplash
I’m an international student and worried about finding a place before arriving. Are there any tips for securing a student apartment from abroad?
Absolutely. Start looking 2-3 months early on platforms like Le Bon Coin or Studapart. Many landlords accept video visits. Also consider CROUS residences, which have a dedicated application process for international students. Having a guarantor (or using a service like Garantme) helps.
Great breakdown! I’m considering a shared flat in Les Beaux-Arts. Does the €350-500 range usually include utilities?
Thanks! In shared flats, utilities are often split separately, so the rent may not include them. Always confirm with the landlord or housemates. Expect an extra €50–100/month for electricity, water, and internet.
Is the city center really worth the extra cost? I’ll be studying at Paul Valéry, so Les Beaux-Arts seems more convenient and cheaper.
It can be a good trade-off. Les Beaux-Arts is a vibrant student area with lower rents and close to Paul Valéry. City center is livelier but pricier and often noisier. If you prefer a quieter study environment, Les Beaux-Arts is a smart choice.