Cost of Living: Gothenburg vs Lyon (2026)
Sweden 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 10% cheaper in Lyon ($972/mo vs $1080/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Lyon (26°C vs 19°C).
- •Gothenburg scores higher on democracy (9.4 vs 8.1 / 10 EIU).
- •English is easier to get by in Gothenburg (86/100 vs 60/100 English proficiency).
Gothenburg vs Lyon — Common Questions
Is Gothenburg cheaper than Lyon?▾
Lyon is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $972/month in Lyon vs $1080/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Gothenburg or Lyon?▾
Gothenburg is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Gothenburg has a rate of 1.10 per 100,000 and Lyon has 1.56 per 100,000.
Should I move to Gothenburg or Lyon?▾
Too close to call — 78 vs 75. Gothenburg has a slight edge, but Lyon might suit you better depending on your priorities. 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 Gothenburg or Lyon?▾
Gothenburg: Sweden Self-Employment Permit (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). Lyon: France Talent Passport (complex process, Up to 4 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Gothenburg or Lyon?▾
Lyon is warmer in summer (26°C vs 19°C). Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg or Lyon without speaking the local language?▾
English is easier to get by in Gothenburg (EF EPI score: 86/100) than in Lyon (60/100). In Gothenburg, 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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