Looking for a furnished rental in Marseille? As France's second-largest city and major Mediterranean port, Marseille offers a unique blend of urban vibrancy and coastal charm that attracts international professionals, researchers, and students. Find your perfect furnished apartment in Marseille with this comprehensive guide designed specifically for expatriates and international tenants planning a stay in 2025.
Why Choose Marseille for Your Next Move?
With approximately 870,000 residents in the city proper (and 1.6 million in the metropolitan area), Marseille has transformed itself into a dynamic cultural and economic hub while maintaining its authentic Mediterranean character. The city offers:
- Strategic location - Gateway to the Mediterranean with excellent connections to major European cities
- Thriving economic sectors - Maritime industries, healthcare, digital technology, and tourism
- Cultural richness - Named European Capital of Culture in 2013 with numerous museums and cultural venues
- Educational excellence - Home to Aix-Marseille University (one of France's largest), KEDGE Business School, and several specialized institutes
- Natural beauty - Surrounded by the stunning Calanques National Park and blessed with 300+ days of sunshine annually
Major employers attracting international talent include CMA CGM (shipping), Airbus Helicopters, Naval Group, and numerous research institutions like CNRS and INSERM, making furnished rentals in high demand among professionals on assignment.
Marseille's Rental Market Overview for 2025
The Marseille rental market continues to evolve, with furnished apartments particularly sought after by international tenants. Current estimates for 2025 show average monthly rental prices for furnished properties at:
- Studio apartment: €450-850/month
- One-bedroom apartment: €750-1,000/month
- Two-bedroom apartment: €1,000-1,200/month
- Three-bedroom apartment: €1,200-1,800/month
These prices vary significantly by neighborhood, property condition, and amenities. Utilities typically add €80-150 monthly depending on the size of the property and season.
Top 5 Neighborhoods for International Tenants in Marseille
1. Le Vieux-Port and Le Panier
The historic heart of Marseille offers charm and central convenience:
- Ideal for: Young professionals and academics seeking authentic city living
- Highlights: Picturesque harbor views, historic architecture, abundant restaurants and cafés
- Average prices: Studios from €650/month, one-bedrooms from €850/month
- Popular property types: Character apartments in historic buildings, often with views
While apartments here tend to be smaller and older, they compensate with unmatched atmosphere and walkability to major attractions.
2. Castellane and Préfecture (6th and 7th arrondissements)
These upscale central districts offer refined urban living:
- Ideal for: Established professionals, visiting faculty, and executives
- Highlights: Elegant Haussmannian buildings, proximity to shopping on Rue Paradis, excellent dining options
- Average prices: Studios from €600/month, One-bedrooms from €800/month, two-bedrooms from €1,000/month
- Popular property types: Spacious apartments in well-maintained buildings, often with balconies
These neighborhoods offer a perfect balance of sophistication and convenience, with easy access to business districts.
3. Le Prado and Périer (8th arrondissement)
Residential areas with excellent amenities and beach access:
- Ideal for: Families and professionals seeking more space and quieter surroundings
- Highlights: Proximity to beaches, Prado Park, international schools, and sporting facilities
- Average prices: Two-bedrooms from €1,200/month, three-bedrooms from €1,500/month
- Popular property types: Modern apartments, some with sea views, and occasional houses with gardens
The 8th arrondissement combines urban convenience with a more relaxed lifestyle, making it popular among expatriate families.
4. La Joliette and Euroméditerranée
Marseille's revitalized business district offers modern living options:
- Ideal for: Business professionals and digital nomads
- Highlights: Contemporary architecture, proximity to major companies, Les Terrasses du Port shopping center
- Average prices: Studios from €600/month, one-bedrooms from €800/month
- Popular property types: New-build apartments with modern amenities and often sea views
This rapidly developing area offers excellent transport connections and represents Marseille's economic renaissance.
5. Endoume and Roucas Blanc (7th arrondissement)
Scenic neighborhoods with stunning coastal views:
- Ideal for: Professionals seeking a premium lifestyle with natural beauty
- Highlights: Proximity to Corniche Kennedy, views of Frioul Islands, village-like atmosphere
- Average prices: One-bedrooms from €900/month, two-bedrooms from €1,300/month
- Popular property types: Character apartments, some with terraces and sea views
These neighborhoods offer a more exclusive environment while remaining close to the city center.
Administrative Requirements for Renting in Marseille
International tenants should prepare the following documentation:
- Identification: Valid passport and visa/residence permit
- Proof of income: Employment contract, recent pay slips, or scholarship confirmation
- Financial guarantees: Bank statements or guarantor documentation
- Insurance: Mandatory "assurance habitation" (home insurance)
For international professionals, the process can be challenging due to requirements for French guarantors or substantial income proof. This is where specialized platforms like MorningCroissant become invaluable, as they understand the unique situations of international tenants.
Budget Planning for Your Marseille Rental
Beyond the base rent, plan for these additional expenses:
- Security deposit: Typically one month's rent for furnished properties
- Utilities: Electricity, gas, water (€80-150/month depending on property size)
- Internet/mobile: €30-50/month
- Home insurance: €150-250/year
- Local taxes: "Taxe d'habitation" may apply depending on your situation
For a one-bedroom furnished apartment in a central area, budget approximately €800-1,100/month for rent plus €150-200 for utilities and additional expenses.
How MorningCroissant Simplifies Renting for International Tenants
Finding suitable accommodation in a foreign city can be daunting, especially with language barriers and unfamiliar rental practices. MorningCroissant specializes in connecting international tenants with quality furnished rentals in Marseille through:
- Flexible contracts: Rental periods from 1 month to 3 years, ideal for academic stays or professional assignments
- Fully furnished properties: Move-in ready homes with all essential equipment and furnishings
- Verified listings: Detailed descriptions and accurate photos in English
- International-friendly process: Acceptance of foreign tenants, guarantors and understanding of expatriate situations
- Validation of international applications within a day with extended eligibility criteria
- Digital efficiency: Complete your rental process online, from application to contract signing
- Secure payments: Protected transaction system for peace of mind
- Immediate contract issuance: Receive your rental agreement as soon as your application is accepted
- Multilingual support: Customer service team experienced with international tenant needs
Practical Tips for Finding Your Ideal Marseille Rental
To maximize your chances of securing a great furnished rental in Marseille:
- Start early: Begin your search 2-3 months before your planned arrival, especially for September moves (peak season)
- Consider transport: Marseille's public transportation includes metro, tram, and bus networks, but service quality varies by area
- Verify amenities: Check for air conditioning (ideal in summer) and heating (needed in winter)
- Ask about noise: Marseille is a lively city; properties on main streets or near nightlife areas can be noisy
- Confirm internet: Verify the property has reliable high-speed internet if you'll be working remotely
- Check building security: Especially important in certain neighborhoods
Marseille's Unique Rental Calendar
The Marseille rental market follows distinct seasonal patterns:
- September-October: Highest demand period as academic year begins and companies onboard new staff
- January-February: Secondary peak for mid-year academic and professional starts
- May-June: Increased availability as academic year ends
- July-August: Many landlords may prefer short-term tourist rentals during peak tourist season
Planning your search according to these patterns can help you find better options and potentially negotiate better terms.
Conclusion: Your Next Steps to Renting in Marseille
Marseille offers a unique living experience combining Mediterranean lifestyle, cultural richness, and professional opportunities. As an international tenant, working with a platform that understands your specific needs can make all the difference in finding your ideal home.
Ready to find your perfect furnished rental in Marseille? Browse MorningCroissant's verified Marseille properties to discover apartments that meet international standards with transparent processes designed for expatriates and visiting professionals.
With the right preparation and support, your transition to life in France's vibrant southern hub can be smooth and rewarding, allowing you to fully embrace all that Marseille has to offer.
