7 MARCH 2025
NOTE: THIS IS PROVIDED AS A GUIDE ONLY AND MAY CHANGE OVER TIME
Renting a furnished apartment in Paris can be exciting, daunting, and overwhelming. Different rental options, varying lease terms, and choices of districts make finding the right place to live a challenging proposition. Whether you’re a student, businessperson, government worker, entrepreneur, retiree, or relocating family, this step-by-step guide will help you secure the perfect furnished apartment in Paris.
Start your search early! Apartments in Paris go fast, especially in peak months from June-September.
Prepare documents in advance. The Paris rental market is competitive, so having your rental dossier ready will increase your chances of securing a great place.
Check lease terms before signing. Ensure the rental period, deposit conditions, and maintenance responsibilities are clear.
Looking for rental agencies? Explore our Paris Rental Agency Directory for verified listings!
Step 1: Define Your Needs and Budget
Decide on Your Rental Duration
Paris has different rental options depending on how long you plan to stay:
- Short-term (1-6 months): Ideal for tourists, students, and business trips. Look for monthly rentals, Airbnb, or serviced apartments.
- Medium-term (6-12 months): Great for expats, students, or work assignments. Most furnished apartments require a minimum stay of 6 months.
- Long-term (1+ years): If you’re staying long-term, you may need a standard 12-month lease (called a bail mobilité for professionals or students, or bail meublé for general furnished rentals).
Set Your Budget
Rental prices in Paris vary by arrondissement (district), apartment size, and amenities.
Expect to pay:
- €1,000–€1,500 per month for a studio or small 1-bedroom in central areas.
- €1,500–€2,500 per month for a 1-2 bedroom in sought-after arrondissements.
- €2,500+ for luxury or family-sized apartments (3+ bedrooms).
Tip: Don’t forget to budget for utilities (€50-€150), internet (€30-€50), and renter’s insurance (€10-€30/month).
Step 2: Choose the Right Paris District (Arrondissement)
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, each with its own charm.
Best Areas for Your Lifestyle:
Students: 5th 11th 10th
Business Travelers: 8th 16th
Families: 15th 16th 17th Neuilly-sur-Seine
Artists & Creatives: 18th 20th 3rd 4th
Peace & Green Spaces: 12th 14th Vincennes (outside Paris)
Tip: If you work in Paris, check your daily commute, as some areas have limited metro/bus access.
Step 3: Know Where to Search for Furnished Apartments
For a hassle-free rental experience, use trusted agencies specializing in furnished rentals – see our Listings page.
Tip: Agency fees are typically 1 month’s rent but can save you time and ensure legal security.
Direct Owner Rentals (No Agency Fees!)
- LeBonCoin.fr (French Craigslist)
- PAP.fr (Rent directly from landlords)
- Facebook Groups (Apartments for Rent in Paris, Expats in Paris)
Short-Term Options
If you’re looking for furnished stays under 6 months, check:
- Airbnb (Flexible but expensive)
- Apart Hotels (Ideal for work stays)
- Co-living Spaces (Colonies, The Babel Community)
Step 4: Understand Rental Requirements
To rent an apartment in Paris, landlords require documents proving your financial stability.
Typical Documents Needed:
- Passport or ID
- Proof of income (3 months’ salary slips or bank statements)
- Employment contract or university acceptance letter
- French guarantor (optional but recommended) – A local sponsor who guarantees rent payments (alternatives: GarantMe or VISALE for foreigners)
Tip: If you don’t have a French bank account, open an international bank account (Wise, Revolut) to make payments easier.
Step 5: Visit Apartments and Ask the Right Questions
When you find an apartment you like, schedule a visit (in-person or virtual).
Checklist for Apartment Visits:
- What’s included? (Fully furnished? Washing machine? Elevator?)
- Is heating included? (Paris winters can be cold!)
- What’s the internet speed? (Important for remote workers)
- Who handles maintenance? (Landlord or building management?)
- Noise level? (Check for street noise or thin walls)
Tip: Take photos & videos during your visit to compare apartments later.
Step 6: Sign the Lease and Move In
Once you choose an apartment, you’ll need to sign the lease (bail meublé) and pay the deposit.
Rental Costs & Deposits
- Security Deposit: 1-2 months’ rent (refundable)
- Agency Fees (if applicable): ~1 month’s rent
- First Month’s Rent (paid upfront)
Tip: Always read the lease terms carefully, especially regarding notice periods, rent increases, and included amenities.
Step 7: Set Up Essentials After Moving In
When you get the keys, set up the following:
- Utilities (Electricity & Water) – EDF or Engie
- Internet & TV – Options include Orange, Bouygues, Free, SFR
- Renter’s Insurance (Assurance Habitation) – Required by law (AXA, MAIF)
- Bank Account – Makes rent payments easier (BNP Paribas, N26, Wise).
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
7 March 2025