Cost of Living: Amsterdam vs Lyon (2026)
Netherlands vs France — relocation comparison
For the Kids
Schools, pediatric care, and whether your children can actually enroll
Sources: OECD PISA 2022 · Wikipedia · Numbeo · official health systems
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 63% cheaper in Lyon ($972/mo vs $2602/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Lyon (26°C vs 20°C).
- •Amsterdam is safer by homicide rate (0.7 vs 1.6 per 100k).
- •Amsterdam scores higher on democracy (9.0 vs 8.1 / 10 EIU).
- •English is easier to get by in Amsterdam (99/100 vs 60/100 English proficiency).
Amsterdam vs Lyon — Common Questions
Is Amsterdam cheaper than Lyon?▾
Lyon is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $972/month in Lyon vs $2602/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Amsterdam or Lyon?▾
Amsterdam is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Amsterdam has a rate of 0.73 per 100,000 and Lyon has 1.56 per 100,000.
Should I move to Amsterdam or Lyon?▾
Lyon edges ahead 75 to 67. Amsterdam isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Amsterdam or Lyon?▾
Amsterdam: Netherlands Highly Skilled Migrant (complex process, Up to 5 years). Lyon: France Talent Passport (complex process, Up to 4 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Amsterdam or Lyon?▾
Lyon is warmer in summer (26°C vs 20°C). Amsterdam has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Amsterdam or Lyon without speaking the local language?▾
English is easier to get by in Amsterdam (EF EPI score: 99/100) than in Lyon (60/100). In Amsterdam, daily life and professional settings often work in English. In Lyon, learning some of the local language will make long-term settlement significantly smoother.
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