Looking for a furnished rental in Montpellier? This Mediterranean gem offers an exceptional quality of life for international professionals, researchers, and students. With approximately 300,000 residents in the city proper and over 600,000 in the metropolitan area, Montpellier combines southern French charm with dynamic innovation. Find your ideal furnished apartment in Montpellier with our comprehensive selection of verified properties.
Why Choose Montpellier for Your Next Move?
Montpellier stands out as France's fastest-growing city over the past three decades, attracting international talent with its:
- Academic excellence - Home to the University of Montpellier (one of Europe's oldest), Montpellier Business School, and numerous research institutes
- Economic vitality - Thriving sectors include healthcare, technology, and research with major employers like IBM, Dell, Sanofi, and the CNRS research center
- Mediterranean lifestyle - 300+ days of sunshine annually, beaches just 11km away, and vibrant cultural scene
- Strategic location - Easy access to Barcelona, Marseille, and the French Riviera
- Student-friendly atmosphere - With over 70,000 students, including 10,000+ internationals
Montpellier's Rental Market Overview (2025)
The Montpellier furnished rental market remains competitive, with average monthly prices ranging from:
- Studios: €500-750
- One-bedroom apartments: €850-1,000
- Two-bedroom apartments: €1,000-1,300
- Three-bedroom apartments: €1,300-1,700
Expect to pay a premium of 10-15% for furnished properties compared to unfurnished ones. However, the convenience and flexibility make this worthwhile for international tenants planning stays of several months to a few years.
Top 5 Neighborhoods for Expats and International Professionals
1. Centre Historique (Écusson)
The medieval heart of Montpellier offers unparalleled charm with its pedestrian streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere.
- Ideal for: Young professionals, academics, and those who prioritize lifestyle
- Advantages: Central location, restaurants, cafés, cultural venues, and excellent public transport
- Property types: Charming apartments in historic buildings, often with unique architectural features
- Notable spots: Place de la Comédie, Musée Fabre, Les Halles Castellane market
2. Antigone
This distinctive neo-classical district designed by architect Ricardo Bofill offers a structured, elegant living environment with wide boulevards and impressive architecture.
- Ideal for: Business professionals, families, and those seeking modern amenities
- Advantages: Spacious apartments, proximity to shopping centers, the Olympic swimming pool, and the Lez River
- Property types: Modern apartments with balconies, often in larger complexes with elevators
- Notable spots: Place du Nombre d'Or, Polygone shopping center, Médiathèque Émile Zola
3. Port Marianne
Montpellier's newest upscale district combines contemporary architecture with green spaces and excellent amenities.
- Ideal for: Tech professionals, researchers, and families seeking modern living
- Advantages: Modern buildings, proximity to business districts, excellent tram connections, and the Lez River
- Property types: Contemporary apartments, often with terraces and parking
- Notable spots: Bassin Jacques Cœur, Hôtel de Ville, Odysseum shopping complex
4. Beaux-Arts
A bohemian neighborhood popular with students and creative professionals, offering a relaxed atmosphere with excellent amenities.
- Ideal for: Students, academics, and creative professionals
- Advantages: Vibrant atmosphere, numerous cafés, proximity to universities, and more affordable rents
- Property types: Mix of older character apartments and renovated properties
- Notable spots: Place des Beaux-Arts, numerous art galleries, local markets
5. Boutonnet/Hôpitaux-Facultés
Located near the university and hospital complexes, this area is ideal for medical professionals, researchers, and academics.
- Ideal for: Healthcare professionals, researchers, and students
- Advantages: Proximity to major hospitals and university campuses, good public transport
- Property types: Mix of student accommodations and family apartments
- Notable spots: University of Montpellier campuses, CHU (University Hospital), Parc Zoologique
Administrative Requirements for Renting in Montpellier
International tenants should prepare the following documents:
- Identification: Valid passport or ID card
- Proof of income: Employment contract, recent pay slips, or scholarship confirmation
- Guarantor information: Many landlords require a French guarantor, though MorningCroissant accepts international guarantors
- Bank details: International bank accounts are accepted for setting up payments
- Proof of student status: If applicable, enrollment confirmation from your institution
- Residence permit: For non-EU citizens staying longer than 3 months
Pro tip: Have digital copies of all documents ready before starting your search to expedite the application process.
Budget Planning: Beyond the Rent
When calculating your housing budget in Montpellier, consider these additional expenses:
- Security deposit: Typically one month's rent for furnished properties
- Agency fees: When using traditional agencies (not applicable with MorningCroissant)
- Utilities: Approximately €80-150/month depending on property size
- Internet/mobile: €20-40/month
- Home insurance: Mandatory, approximately €150-250/year
- Local residence tax: "Taxe d'habitation" - being phased out but may still apply in some cases
Most MorningCroissant properties include utilities in the rental price, simplifying your budget planning.
Practical Tips for Finding Your Ideal Rental
To maximize your chances of securing a great furnished rental in Montpellier:
- Start early: Begin your search 1-2 months before your planned arrival, especially for September moves (peak season)
- Consider location: Prioritize proximity to your workplace/university and public transport
- Check connectivity: Montpellier has excellent tram coverage - properties near tram lines are highly desirable
- Verify amenities: Ensure the furnishings meet your needs (especially kitchen equipment and workspace)
- Ask about cooling: Air conditioning is valuable during hot Mediterranean summers
- Understand the contract: Standard leases for furnished properties are 1 year, but MorningCroissant offers flexible terms from 1 month to 3 years
Why Choose MorningCroissant for Your Montpellier Rental
MorningCroissant specializes in making the rental process seamless for international tenants with services designed specifically for expats and international professionals:
- Quality listings: All listings are exhaustive and include detailed descriptions in English
- Flexible contracts: Rental periods from 1 month to 3 years to suit your mobility needs
- Fully furnished homes: Move in with just your suitcase - all essentials provided
- International-friendly process: Acceptance of foreign guarantors and international documentation
- Same-day validation: Quick response to rental applications
- Digital experience: Complete the entire rental process online
- Secure payment system: Protected transactions for peace of mind
- Immediate contract: Receive your rental agreement as soon as your application is accepted
- Dedicated support: Customer service team experienced with international tenants' needs
Conclusion: Your New Life in Montpellier Awaits
Montpellier offers an exceptional blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, academic excellence, and economic opportunity that makes it increasingly popular with international professionals and students. With its sunny climate, rich cultural scene, and strategic location, the city provides an outstanding quality of life.
Finding the right furnished rental is your first step toward a successful relocation. MorningCroissant simplifies this process with verified properties, flexible terms, and services designed specifically for international tenants.
Ready to find your perfect home in Montpellier? Browse our selection of furnished rentals in Montpellier and start your Mediterranean adventure with confidence.
