Saint-Étienne provides the best student accommodation in France within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, is a student-friendly city. With a population of around 175,000 residents, Saint-Étienne offers a balanced urban environment that strongly appeals to students. Historically shaped by mining, manufacturing, and design, the city has successfully reinvented itself as a centre for innovation, arts, and technology, giving it a distinctive and modern character. One of Saint-Étienne’s key strengths is its affordability and accessibility. The city is well connected by regional trains, with direct rail links to Lyon in under an hour, making it easy for students to travel for internships, networking, or leisure.

Saint-Étienne also has an efficient public transport network of trams and buses, along with walkable neighbourhoods that make daily commuting simple and cost-effective. Green spaces such as Parc de l’Europe, Parc François Mitterrand, and nearby natural areas provide students with relaxing spots for study breaks and outdoor activities. Saint-Étienne has a lively student presence supported by universities, creative institutions, cafés, cultural venues, and events such as the Saint-Étienne International Design Biennale. Student accommodation in Saint-Étienne offers a practical and well-rounded setting for students to live and study comfortably.

Whether you’re looking for private student accommodation in Saint-Étienne or a shared apartment, you’ll have a lot of options with amber! You can choose from a selection of shared 2-5 bedroom apartments, private apartments, en-suites, non-ensuites, and studios in Saint-Étienne, each with its own level of privacy and community living. This ensures you won’t have to compromise on your new home away from home. They also come with a variety of common amenities like a laundry room, wifi, and one rent that covers all utilities. This makes students’ day-to-day experience at their residence a lot more enjoyable and comfortable. Students need a safe, comfortable, and convenient space to live while studying in Saint-Étienne. Some of the best student accommodation in Saint-Étienne include:

1. Greenbreak Residence: This Saint-Étienne apartments for rent are furnished and equipped with studios apartments with amenities like a 24/7 laundry room, espaces, TV, high speed wifi, heating, and a fitness zone. From €345 per month
2. Baker Hill Residence: This Saint-Étienne student accommodation provides studio and shared apartments like 4B and 6B configurations with facilities like a 24/7 laundry room, coworking zone, TV, and a shared kitchen. From €390 per month

Saint-Étienne offers a range of student-friendly neighbourhoods that cater to different budgets, lifestyles, and study needs. Known for its affordability, compact layout, and reliable public transport, the city makes it easy for students to balance academics with everyday life. Whether you prefer a lively central setting or a quieter residential area, Saint-Étienne provides practical and accessible options. Here are some of the best areas to live in Saint-Étienne for students:

1. Centre-Ville (City Centre): The city centre is a popular choice for students who want to stay close to everything. It offers easy access to cafés, restaurants, supermarkets, libraries, shops, and cultural venues. With excellent tram and bus connections and proximity to key institutions, Centre-Ville is ideal for students who enjoy an active social life and short daily commutes.

2. Châteaucreux: Châteaucreux is a modern and well-connected district near the main train station, making it especially convenient for students who travel frequently. The area features newer housing, student residences, offices, and good public transport links. Its growing student presence and strong connectivity make it a practical and comfortable option.

3. Bergson / Carnot: This neighbourhood is popular among students due to its affordability and proximity to universities and schools. It offers a mix of student apartments, local shops, supermarkets, and reliable tram access. Bergson–Carnot suits students looking for budget-friendly accommodation without being far from academic and central areas.

4. La Métare / Montplaisir: Located slightly away from the city centre, La Métare and Montplaisir offer a quieter, more residential environment. With green spaces, sports facilities, and good tram connections, these areas are ideal for students who prefer a calmer lifestyle while remaining well connected to campuses and the city centre.

Saint-Étienne offers a wide range of student accommodation options designed to meet different needs and budgets. Colocation is a popular choice among students in Saint-Étienne, with 22% opting for shared living arrangements. Saint-Étienne student housings often include amenities such as laundry facilities and communal areas. Whether you prefer privacy or a social setup, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to the most common room types:

1. Ensuites: Other accommodation offers you a private room at a high price but an ensuite apartments in Saint-Étienne is perfect for students who want privacy with some shared living. Your student accommodation offers you a bedroom and bathroom, while the kitchen and lounge areas are shared with flatmates. This is a good option for students who enjoy socialising but also value personal space.

2. Non-Ensuites: Non-ensuite rooms are more affordable and ideal for students who don’t mind sharing. You’ll have your bedroom, but share the bathroom, kitchen, and common spaces with others like in university residences. Looking for a non-ensuite is a good way to save money and make new friends.

3. Studio Apartments: Private Studio apartments in Saint-Étienne offer total privacy, as everything is in one space, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Searching for studios is great for students who want independence, quiet study time, and a self-contained lifestyle in their own apartment.

4. Private Apartments: These apartments to rent come with private bedrooms and shared living areas like the kitchen and lounge. They work well for students who want to live with a friend but still have a private space.

5. Shared Apartments: Shared apartments are popular among students who like living in a group. You get your bedroom, and the kitchen, bathroom, and lounge are shared with others, making it fun and social.

6. Private Rooms: These rooms offer a private bedroom while you share common areas like the kitchen and bathroom with flatmates. It’s a balance between privacy and community living, ideal for first-year students or those new to Saint-Étienne for student housing in Saint-Étienne.

The cost of living in Saint-Étienne can vary depending on the area you live in, your lifestyle, and your spending habits. Saint-Étienne is 25% cheaper in comparison to Paris. On average, you should expect to spend between €1,200 to €1,800 per month, depending on your choices for accommodation, food, entertainment, and how well-connected the apartment is. Here’s a breakdown of approximate monthly costs for a student living in Saint-Étienne:

1. Restaurants: €150-€300 for one month
2. Groceries: €150-€250 for one month
3. Transportation: €75-€100 for one month
4. Utilities: €100-€150 for one month
5. Clothing: €40-€100 for one month