Studying in Paris sounds like a dream, right? Cobblestone streets, better-
than-anywhere croissants, and an incredibly rich cultural scene. But reality often hits home when you start looking for accommodation. Paris isn’t exactly a cheap city,
and with thousands of French and international students looking for a place to live, finding an
affordable—and actually decent—place can feel like a real
obstacle course.
So, in 2025, where should you look?
Which accommodations are the cheapest and really worth it? Let’s break it down together.
Student housing in Paris in 2025: what to expect?
Let’s start by understanding the current landscape. Paris didn’t suddenly become
more affordable in 2025, but things are slowly changing. Demand is higher
than ever, particularly with the arrival of Erasmus students and other international students, which is pushing for the development of alternatives: coliving, private student residences, etc.
Traditional studios still exist, but they are difficult to secure when you’re on a tight budget.
The average rent for a small studio or apartment in central Paris is between €850 and €1,200 per month, depending on the arrondissement. But don’t panic, there are still more economical options, especially if you’re willing to be a little flexible and look beyond the most touristy neighborhoods.
The cheapest districts for students:
If your goal is to find the cheapest student housing possible, then it’s best
to aim for the outer arrondissements. The 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements will remain the
most affordable neighborhoods in 2025. They may not be the most “postcard” like Saint-Germain or the Marais, but they have their charm, a real local life, and a young and dynamic atmosphere.
In the 19th arrondissement, you can still find a decent furnished studio for around €700 to €800 per month, especially if you book early or use local classifieds rather than agencies. The 20th, particularly around Gambetta and Ménilmontant, is attracting more and more students. It’s a lively, somewhat raw, but authentic neighborhood.
CROUS residences: unbeatable but in high demand
CROUS university residences are the Holy Grail of student housing in France.
Managed by the state, they offer the lowest rents on the market, often between €250 and
€450 per month. Yes, it’s real.
The problem is that demand is enormous. You have to submit a Student Social File (DSE)
several months in advance, and even then, it’s not guaranteed. But if you’re lucky enough
to get one, it’s clearly the most economical option.
CROUS housing is simple and no-frills, but it’s safe, well-located
(often near the metro), and designed for students. Aside from the price, it’s a real
immersion into student life.
Shared accommodation: economical, friendly, and not to be taken lightly.
If you’re open to the idea of sharing your home, shared accommodation can be a great
compromise between savings and comfort. Rooms in shared accommodations can start from
€500 to €700 per month, depending on the neighborhood. The secret is to start your
search early and use the right platforms: Appartager, La Carte des Colocs, or even dedicated Facebook groups.
But be careful, shared accommodation also means shared responsibilities. One of the
often-forgotten, yet mandatory elements in France, is student housing insurance. Even if you’re not the main tenant, each roommate must generally be covered. It protects against water damage, fires, and other disasters—especially when you share accommodation with others. Fortunately, several companies now offer special plans for students. It’s a small
price to pay to avoid big problems.
The best compromises near universities
Want to live near your campus without blowing your budget? You should aim for
areas just outside the center. For example, around Paris Cité University (in the
13th and 14th arrondissements), it’s still possible to find affordable housing, particularly around
Porte d’Orléans or Glacière.
If you’re studying at the Sorbonne or Sciences Po, central neighborhoods are more expensive,
but a few metro stops away, in the 11th or parts of the 12th arrondissements, rents drop significantly while still remaining well connected.
Often, living 15-20 minutes away by metro can save you several hundred
euros. And these more « residential » neighborhoods are sometimes much more pleasant on a daily basis.
Conclusion
Paris is an incredible city, but your daily life will depend a lot on where you live. Find the right place, and you’ll be ready for crepe nights, weekend
museums, and picnics by the Seine. That’s real Parisian student life.