Pau, located in the picturesque Pyrenees-Atlantiques department of southwestern France, is a peaceful city with a population of around 77,000 residents. Founded in the Middle Ages and shaped significantly during the Renaissance, Pau has grown into a culturally rich, student-friendly destination known for its stunning mountain views, mild climate, and strong academic presence. The city maintains a crime rate lower than many major French cities, making it a safe and comfortable choice for students. Pau is home to major educational institutions such as the University of Pau and Pays de l’Adour (UPPA), one of France’s leading public universities. Its accessible academic environment attracts thousands of international students and provide best student accommodation in France. Students in Pau enjoy an active lifestyle thanks to its proximity to the Pyrenees, offering opportunities for hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and winter sports. Green spaces like the Boulevard des Pyrénées, Parc Beaumont, and the riverside paths along the Gave de Pau provide scenic escapes for study breaks or weekend relaxation. With its affordability and thriving academic scene, Pau is an excellent base for students, and finding the right student accommodation in Pau becomes even easier with well-connected accommodation options.

Whether you’re looking for private student accommodation in Pau or a shared apartment, you’ll have a lot of options with amber! You can choose from a selection of ensuite, non-ensuite, private apartments, and studios in Pau, each with its own level of privacy and community living. Ensuring you won’t have to compromise on your new home away from home. Not only do these options for student accommodation in Pau come fully furnished, but they also come with a variety of common amenities, making their day-to-day experience a lot more enjoyable and comfortable. The right affordable student accommodation in Pau is key to a great college experience in the city. Students need a safe, comfortable, and convenient place to live while studying in Pau. These student residence in Pau give students easy access to campus with essential amenities and a supportive community. Some of the best student apartments in Pau include:

1. Fokus Residence: This student accommodation in  Pau offers stunning studio apartments close to prestigious universities with amenities such as a 24/7 fitness room, wi fi, laundry facilities and coworking areas. From €530 per month

Pau offers a range of student-friendly neighborhoods, each with its own strengths, from proximity to campuses to lively social settings. Whether you prefer a peaceful residential area or an exciting student hub, here are some of the best places to live in Pau, offering convenience for students:

1. Centre-Ville (City Centre): The heart of Pau, Centre-Ville is ideal for students who want everything within walking distance. Packed with cafés, affordable restaurants, bookstores, supermarkets, and student hangout spots, it offers a perfect mix of convenience and buzz. With excellent bus connections to UPPA and quick access to cultural attractions, it’s a top choice for students wanting a balanced urban lifestyle.

2. Trespoey: Known for its calm, upscale environment and scenic views of the Pyrenees, Trespoey is a great choice for students who prefer a quieter residential feel. The wide green streets, parks, and safe surroundings make it ideal for those who value comfort and peaceful study time.

3. Le Hameau: A popular area among students for its affordability and access to essential facilities, Le Hameau offers supermarkets, sports venues, cafés, and direct bus routes to UPPA. With its strong community vibe and student-friendly amenities, it’s perfect for those who want budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience.

4. Pau Nord / Montardon Area: For students who enjoy more space, greenery, and a suburban feel, the northern neighborhoods of Pau, including Montardon, provide a peaceful environment while remaining well-linked to the city by bus. It’s ideal for students who prefer a slower pace of life, outdoor activities, and easy access to nature while still staying within commuting distance of the university.

Pau offers a wide range of student residence options designed to meet different needs and budgets. Whether you are looking for privacy or a social setup, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick guide to the most common room types:

1. Ensuite Rooms - Ensuite apartments in Pau come with a private bedroom and attached bathroom, giving students personal space while living in shared housing.
Privacy: A private bathroom ensures comfort and convenience.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchen and lounge are shared, encouraging interaction.
Ideal For: Students wanting privacy with the option to socialise.

2. Non-Ensuite Rooms - Non-ensuite rooms provide a private bedroom with a shared bathroom, making them budget-friendly options.
Privacy: Bedroom remains personal, bathroom is shared with others.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchens and common areas are communal.
Ideal For: Students looking for affordable housing with community living.

3. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments offer individual bedrooms while residents share bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges.
Privacy: Bedrooms are private; other areas are communal. The average rent for a shared room in Pau is €350.
Shared Living Areas: Strong focus on social living and group activities.
Ideal For: Students who enjoy community living and making friends.

4. Private Rooms
Private apartments provide a full flat for those who are looking for everything in one space with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen solely for one person.
Privacy: Full privacy with no shared areas.
Shared Living Areas: None, the entire space belongs to the resident.
Ideal For: Students who want full independence and maximum comfort.

5. Studios - Studio apartments in Pau are self-contained spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette in one unit. The average rent for a studio in Pau is €360.
Privacy: Complete independence with private facilities.
Shared Living Areas: No shared spaces inside the unit.
Ideal For: Students who prefer independence and quiet study environments.

6. 1-Bed Apartments - 1-bedroom flats provide a separate bedroom along with a private kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
Privacy: Full privacy with a separate bedroom and facilities.
Shared Living Areas: The entire space is private to the resident.
Ideal For: Students who want a home-like setting with more space.

As a student in Pau, it is important to understand the average expected cost of living, as it directly impacts your budgeting and lifestyle while studying. Pau is cheaper than Toulouse, where rents are around 5% more expensive than in Pau. Pau is known for being affordable compared to larger French cities, making it a great choice for students. The average rent for a student room in Pau is €370, the average rent for a shared room in Pau is €350 and In Pau, and the average rent for a studio in Pau is €360. students can anticipate a cumulative cost of living around €950 – €1,300 per month, covering all essential needs for a comfortable student life.

1. Food & Groceries: €200-€300/month
2. Transportation: €20-€40/month
3. Utilities (including Internet): €100-€150/month
4. Clothing: €30-€70/month
5. Sports & Leisure: €80-€120/month