Montpellier is France’s fastest growing city. It is also one of the most multicultural cities in Europe, making Montpellier a great place to live for expats, students, and locals alike. Packed with culture and history, the city ties the modern with the past. With its elegant architecture, vibrant student nightlife, and proximity to beautiful white beaches, there’s little wonder why so many people want to move to Montpellier. Apartments are therefore a little scarce, especially the cheap and furnished ones. There are still excellent options if you search in the right areas. This guide will help you learn about the city, so you can find your Montpellier dream apartment without breaking the bank.
Types of Accommodations in Montpellier
Moving to Montpellier
A few decades ago, Montpellier was a hidden gem explored by few. But today the city gets the recognition it really deserves. Unlike a lot of French cities, Montpellier is not built on industry. Instead, artistic expression and intelligent exploration are the what it’s about. Few cities attract leading architectural designers like Montpellier. Wherever you look in Montpellier, your eyes will never be bored. Even the trams here have been voted the sexiest in Europe! Regardless of your interest in public transport, Montpellier is a joy to behold.Now your attention is piqued, you’re probably wondering: is moving to Montpellier in France easy? Whilst it’s not the cheapest city in France, rent costs are cheaper than some other major European cities. Regardless, whether you’re moving to Montpellier Juvignac, or any other popular districts, Nestpick will help you find your perfect new home.
Residential Areas of Montpellier
Antigone
Antigone is a district in Montpellier situated east of the city centre. Found just past the historic centre, Antigone has some of the most beautiful streets in the city. Neoclassic architecture is one of the area’s biggest offerings. You won’t find any tower blocks in Antigone that’s for sure! The long avenues lined with trees make Antigone seem almost too good to be true. But that’s not the case.Though rent prices can be more expensive than other areas in the city, there are plenty of handy amenities close by. These include the Antigone Montpellier pool, and a wide range of high-quality restaurants. Take in the French Fusion at Les Bistronomes, or get a taste of the Caribbean at Les Anses D’Arlet. You won’t be disappointed! The Polygone shopping mall in Antigone Montpellier is also a major positive for those who love shopping. Whilst the Library in Antigone Montpellier is the best in the city.
Alco
Towards the north-west of the city is the district of Alco. Popular amongst families and working professionals, it offers peace and quiet. Whilst still being close to the city centre. Some areas in Montpellier are known for their traffic jams, but you won’t have any issue driving in Alco. It’s wide boulevards allow you to travel stress-free. Most flats to rent in Montpellier come with designated parking spots too. So you won’t have to worry about parking.Housing in Alco offers plenty of opportunities to find your perfect home. Whether you prefer high-rise modern flats, or small villas, Alco offers accommodation to suit you. Amenities in the area include the veterinarian Alco Montpellier and a number of exciting restaurants. The Collège Alco Montpellier is one of the best schools in the city too: great for family movers.
Beaux Arts
The Beaux Arts district of Montpellier is situated in the centre of town. Despite this, it has a village-like feel. This is thanks to a wide range of small boutiques and art galleries. The Atelier Galerie is a must visit if you love culture. With an impressive collection of painting, sculpture, and video art, it’s a great way to spend an afternoon. There is also a weekday market where you can support the local community by buying fresh local produce. Popular amongst local artists, students, and locals, Beaux arts is a melting pot of cultural activity. Also worth noting is the impressive restaurant district in Beaux Arts Montpellier. Heng Lay is a great Asian restaurant, for example, that offers tasty food, for relatively little cost. If you’re looking for Beaux arts doctors in Montpellier, you shouldn’t have to look too far either. The same is the case if you want to treat yourself at any of the hairdressers in Beaux Arts Montpellier. All in all, Beaux Arts is arguably the most exciting place for young people to rent a flat in Montpellier.
1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments in Montpellier
1 Bedroom
1-bedroom apartments in Montpellier are relatively cheap for France. For a 1-bed in Montpellier city centre, the average monthly rent is €582.22, with a price range between €500 and €700. In a cheaper part of town, you’ll be paying anywhere between €375 to €600, although this can vary substantially depending on variables such as the size, age and style of apartment, as well as the desirability of the neighbourhood it’s located in.
2 Bedrooms
Although 2-bedroom apartments in Montpellier can be hard to find at short notice, there are still plenty of great options available if you know where to look. At Nestpick, we’re here to point you in the right direction. The up-and-coming Gambetta and Figuerolles districts might not be the first choice for many expats, but 2-bedroom apartments in these areas are more readily available. Monthly rents here tend to be a lot cheaper than in the city centre too, with an average price of around €650 to €700.
Montpellier Apartments with Air Conditioning
If you enjoy a Mediterranean climate, then you won’t be disappointed in Montpellier. The average July temperature here is a balmy 24°C (74°F), so it’s certainly worth making sure your apartment has air conditioning fitted as standard. While the vast majority of apartments in Montpellier already come equipped with air conditioning units, the listings do not always specify. If there’s an apartment that takes your fancy but you’re unsure whether it has air conditioning, you should consult with the landlord.
Montpellier Apartments with Washing Machine
If you’re moving to a new city, having to sort out buying a washing machine can be something of a hassle, especially if you’re not yet familiar with local prices or are still getting to grips with the language. Thankfully, the vast majority furnished apartments in Montpellier come already equipped with washing machines - giving you one less thing to worry about. If, for whatever reason, an apartment you have your eye on doesn’t state whether it has a washing machine, it’s best to check with the landlord.
Student Accommodation in Montpellier
The city of Montpellier is home to two universities. Which university you study at will more than likely have little impact on which student residence that you choose. Both are close to the most popular student districts.
The biggest and most recognisable is the University of Montpellier. Located at the edge of the city centre, near the Jardin des plantes de Montpellier, it is one of France’s best places to study. One of the most popular areas to live as a student studying at UM is in the Beaux Arts district. Close to the vibrant nightlife, and cheap eateries, it’s a great place to meet new friends, and experience the culture of the area.
The other university in the city is the Univesité Paul Valéry. Close to the CHRU Hôpital Saint Eloi, it is further away from the city centre than the University of Montpellier. Despite this, it is still just a 30min walk away from the Beaux Arts district. Another area to consider is Aiguelongue. It might not be as lively as Beaux Arts, but it is slightly closer. Most students will want to position themselves in Beaux Arts however, as it is in this area where you can really experience university life.