Cost of Living: Bilbao vs Lyon (2026)
Spain vs France — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 23% cheaper in Lyon ($972/mo vs $1259/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Lyon (26°C vs 25°C).
- •Bilbao is safer by homicide rate (0.7 vs 1.6 per 100k).
Bilbao vs Lyon — Common Questions
Is Bilbao cheaper than Lyon?▾
Lyon is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $972/month in Lyon vs $1259/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bilbao or Lyon?▾
Bilbao is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bilbao has a rate of 0.69 per 100,000 and Lyon has 1.56 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bilbao or Lyon?▾
Lyon edges ahead 75 to 69. Bilbao 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 Bilbao or Lyon?▾
Bilbao: no specific remote work visa. Lyon: France Talent Passport (complex process, Up to 4 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
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