Looking for a furnished apartment in Reims for your international assignment or studies? This charming city in the heart of the Champagne region offers excellent opportunities for expats and international professionals. MorningCroissant provides verified furnished rentals in Reims with flexible contracts perfect for medium to long-term stays.
Why Choose Reims for Your International Stay?
With approximately 185,000 residents in its urban area, Reims combines the charm of a historic city with modern amenities and excellent connectivity. Known as the "City of Kings" and the capital of Champagne, Reims offers:
- Strategic location - Only 45 minutes from Paris by high-speed train
- Rich cultural heritage - Home to the UNESCO-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Thriving economy - Champagne industry, food processing, and growing business services sector
- Quality education - University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, NEOMA Business School, and several specialized institutes
- Affordable living costs - 30-40% lower than Paris with excellent quality of life
Reims Rental Market Overview for 2025
The rental market in Reims offers good value compared to other major French cities. For furnished accommodations, expect these approximate monthly rates:
- Studio apartment (20-30m²): €500-750
- 1-bedroom apartment (30-50m²): €750-900
- 2-bedroom apartment (50-70m²): €900-1,100
- 3-bedroom apartment or house (70m²+): €1,100-1,500+
Utilities typically add €80-150 per month depending on the size of the property and season. Internet service costs approximately €30-40 monthly.
Best Neighborhoods for Expats and International Professionals in Reims
1. City Center (Centre-Ville)
The historic heart of Reims is ideal for those who want to be close to everything.
- Perfect for: Young professionals, academics, and those without cars
- Highlights: Walking distance to shops, restaurants, cathedral, and main attractions
- Housing types: Primarily apartments in historic buildings, some with period features
- Price range: €700-1,000 for a well-furnished one-bedroom apartment
2. Clairmarais
Located near the train station, this area has been revitalized with modern developments.
- Perfect for: Business travelers, commuters to Paris, young professionals
- Highlights: Proximity to TGV station (45 min to Paris), business district, modern amenities
- Housing types: Newer apartments, often with better insulation and modern facilities
- Price range: €550-850 for a one-bedroom apartment
3. Quartier Jean-Jaurès
A residential area with a village-like atmosphere, yet close to the center.
- Perfect for: Families, academics, and those seeking a quieter environment
- Highlights: Good schools, parks, markets, and family-friendly atmosphere
- Housing types: Mix of apartments and houses, often with more space
- Price range: €800-1,000 for a two-bedroom apartment
4. Quartier Barbâtre-Saint-Remi
A historic district with character and proximity to the University.
- Perfect for: Students, researchers, and academics
- Highlights: Close to University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, historic atmosphere
- Housing types: Mix of student accommodations and traditional apartments
- Price range: €500-800 for a studio or small one-bedroom
5. Quartier Europe
A modern residential area with good amenities and transportation links.
- Perfect for: Families and professionals seeking more space
- Highlights: Shopping centers, sports facilities, good public transport
- Housing types: Newer apartments and some houses with gardens
- Price range: €900-1,150 for a two-bedroom apartment
Key Employers and Educational Institutions in Reims
Many international professionals and students come to Reims for these prominent organizations:
- Major employers: Champagne houses (Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery), Mars Inc., Nestlé, Boehringer Ingelheim, Cristallerie Royale de Champagne
- Educational institutions: University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne (26,000+ students), NEOMA Business School (international MBA programs), Sciences Po Paris (Euro-American campus), AgroParisTech
- Research centers: INSERM (medical research), INRA (agricultural research)
Administrative Procedures for Renting in Reims
International tenants should prepare these documents for a smooth rental process:
- Identification: Passport, visa or residence permit
- Proof of income: Employment contract, recent pay slips, or scholarship certificate
- Financial guarantees: Bank statements, guarantor documents (if applicable)
- Insurance: Home insurance is mandatory (approximately €150-200 annually)
Note for international renters: French landlords traditionally require income 3 times the rent amount and a French guarantor, which can be challenging for foreigners. MorningCroissant specializes in helping international tenants navigate these requirements with flexible solutions and alternatives to those constraints.
Practical Tips for Finding Your Ideal Furnished Rental in Reims
Best Time to Search
The rental market in Reims has specific peak periods:
- June-September: Highest demand due to academic year start and corporate relocations
- January-February: Secondary peak for mid-year academic intakes
- October-December: Generally quieter with more negotiation potential
What to Look For in a Furnished Rental
When evaluating properties, consider these important factors:
- Heating system: Reims winters can be cold; check the type and efficiency of heating
- Insulation quality: Older buildings may have higher energy costs
- Parking: Street parking can be difficult in central areas
- Public transport proximity: Reims has an efficient tram system
- Furnishing level: Ensure all essentials are included (bed, kitchen equipment, etc.)
How MorningCroissant Makes Renting in Reims Easier for International Tenants
As an international professional or student, finding accommodation in a foreign city can be challenging. MorningCroissant specializes in making this process smoother with services designed for international clients:
- Flexible contracts: From 1 month to 3 years, adaptable to your assignment length
- Fully furnished properties: Move-in ready with all essentials included
- Verified listings: Detailed descriptions in English and accurate photos
- International-friendly process: Acceptance of foreign guarantors and international documentation
- Same-day validation: Quick response to rental applications
- Digital process: Complete your rental agreement online from anywhere
- Secure payment system: Protected transactions for peace of mind
- Immediate contract issuance: Receive your rental agreement as soon as approved
- Multilingual customer support: Assistance throughout your rental experience
Transportation and Connectivity in Reims
Reims offers excellent transportation options that make living without a car entirely feasible:
- Public transport: Two tram lines and comprehensive bus network (monthly pass: €40)
- TGV high-speed train: 45 minutes to Paris, connections to major European cities
- Cycling: Growing network of bike lanes and bike-sharing system
- Airports: Paris Charles de Gaulle (1h30 by train), Paris-Vatry (45 min by car)
Living Costs Beyond Rent in Reims (2025 Estimates)
To budget effectively for your stay in Reims, consider these monthly expenses:
- Utilities: €80-150 (electricity, heating, water)
- Internet and mobile: €40-60
- Public transportation: €40 (monthly pass)
- Groceries: €200-300 per person
- Dining out: €15-25 per meal in mid-range restaurants
- Entertainment: €100-200 (including occasional champagne tastings!)
- Health insurance: Variable based on coverage (often covered by employers)
Overall, a single person should budget approximately €1,200-1,800 monthly (including rent for a small apartment), making Reims significantly more affordable than Paris or other major European cities.
Conclusion: Making Your Move to Reims Successful
Reims offers an attractive combination of French heritage, modern amenities, and international opportunities at a reasonable cost. Whether you're coming for academic pursuits, a corporate assignment, or to experience life in the Champagne region, the city provides an excellent quality of life with rich cultural experiences.
For a stress-free relocation, start your housing search early and consider working with specialists in international rentals. Browse MorningCroissant's selection of verified furnished rentals in Reims to find your ideal home away from home with a process designed for international tenants.
With proper preparation and the right support, your experience in the City of Kings will be both rewarding and memorable. Welcome to Reims!
