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Moving to Grenoble, France | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Grenoble, France

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 02, 2023

Summary: Expats move to Grenoble, France for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The city is surrounded by the French Alps, offering breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities. It is also home to a number of universities and research centers, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their education or pursue a career in research. Additionally, Grenoble is known for its low cost of living, making it an ideal place for expats to settle down and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

What do I need to know before moving to Grenoble?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Grenoble, they said:

"Grenoble is the capital city of the Isère department in southeastern France. The city is known for its active university community, its wide range of outdoor activities, and its vibrant nightlife. Transport links to the rest of the country are good, with both road and rail connections. Healthcare services in the region are high-quality, but it is recommended that expats take out full health insurance before moving to Grenoble. The city is culturally diverse, with a number of foreign-language cinemas, international supermarkets, and various cultures represented in the city. Public schools in the area offer classes in English and often have high standards. Expats should familiarise themselves with French customs and language, as English is not widely spoken here. Finally, Grenoble has a unique and often unpredictable climate, with warm summers and chilly winters, and some high levels of precipitation," said one expat in Grenoble, France.

How do I find a place to live in Grenoble?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Grenoble can be done by researching online, attending open house viewings, and going to apartment search websites. Additionally, connecting with friends, family, and former colleagues already living in the city can be helpful as they may have connections that can provide housing options. It is also helpful to look for property listings in local newspapers for available rentals. Reaching out to local real estate agencies can also be a good way to find available housing. Touring the city and neighborhoods to see what places are the best fit for you can also be beneficial," said one expat in Grenoble, France.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Grenoble?

"Expat homes and apartments in Grenoble tend to be modern, with open concept designs and plenty of natural light. Many homes and apartments come with balconies that offer views of the surrounding Alps Mountains. Many expat homes and apartments are located in close proximity to parks, schools, shops, restaurants, entertainment, and public transportation. Inside, expats can often find modern furnishings and appliances, as well as local art and decor," said one expat who made the move to Grenoble, France.

What is the average cost of housing in Grenoble?

If you are thinking about moving to Grenoble, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Grenoble is generally quite high, due to the fact that it is a popular city and the demand for housing is high. Rent prices for an average studio apartment in the city center are around €750-850 and monthly rental costs for a one-bedroom apartment are €1000-1200. Prices will vary based on the size and condition of the apartment. Additionally, there is an average €1000 deposit required for all housing contracts," said one expat who made the move to Grenoble, France.

Should I buy or rent a home in Grenoble?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Grenoble, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Both renting and buying a home in Grenoble can be beneficial, depending on your particular circumstances. If you are only planning to stay in the city for a short period of time, it may be more practical and cost-effective to rent a home. On the other hand, if you plan to stay in the area for a longer period of time, buying a home could be a more sensible investment. Before committing to either option, it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons associated with each. Additionally, researching the local housing market is crucial to ensure you get a fair deal whether you choose to rent or buy," commented one expat who made the move to Grenoble, France.

What should I pack when moving to Grenoble?

We asked people living in Grenoble to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Grenoble, it is important to make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes as the climate here is quite cool and wet. Make sure to include light sweaters and rain gear such as a jacket, raincoat and umbrella. If you plan on doing a lot of outdoor activities, sturdy shoes such as walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. Additionally, a small medical kit with any necessary prescription medications, basic first aid items, and other remedies could come in handy," said one expat in Grenoble, France.

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We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Grenoble?

We asked people in Grenoble if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be respectful of French culture when visiting Grenoble. It is considered polite to greet people with a firm handshake and direct eye contact when you meet them. When dining, it is customary to keep your arms off the table, refrain from starting to eat until everyone at the table has been served, and to wait for the host to give the signal to begin the meal. It is also important to be mindful of your posture and to not become too loud in public places. It is also considered impolite to speak directly after belching, so it is important to apologize if this occurs unintentionally. Finally, it is considered inappropriate to wear shorts in some places, such as churches and other places of worship," said one expat in Grenoble, France.

Why do people move to Grenoble?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Grenoble, they responded:

"Grenoble is a city that has much to offer to expats looking for a new home. From stunning scenery to state-of-the-art infrastructure, this cosmopolitan city offers a lifestyle that is both modern and relaxed. Its location in the French Alps provides easy access to some of the world's best skiing, which is complemented by a thriving cultural and culinary scene. In addition to all of this, Grenoble is home to major universities and employers, making it a great destination for those looking to start or advance their careers. With an abundance of recreational activities, excellent nightlife, and a vibrant local community, Grenoble is a great place for expats looking to explore and experience all that France has to offer," remarked one expat in Grenoble.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

How are healthcare services Grenoble?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Grenoble, they replied:

"Grenoble offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies, which provide prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, Grenoble has a number of specialized medical centers, such as those for cancer treatment, mental health, and physical therapy. The city also has a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments," stated one expat who made the move to Grenoble.

What are medical services in Grenoble like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Grenoble, they replied:

"Grenoble offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The city has several hospitals, including the University Hospital of Grenoble, which is one of the largest in the region. Additionally, Grenoble has a number of private clinics and medical centers that provide specialized care. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores. In addition, Grenoble has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care to the city's residents," said one expat living in Grenoble, France.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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