Working In Lyon

Ever thought about living in Lyon?

From the historic districts of Vieux Lyon to the innovative Confluence quarter, the city’s unique neighbourhoods offer something for everyone. Stroll down cobblestone streets lined with bouchons (traditional Lyonnais restaurants) or enjoy an afternoon in one of Lyon’s many green parks. 🌳
For expats, Lyon has the perfect balance between professional growth and personal happiness. The city is a major economic hub in France, home to industries ranging from tech and biotech to international commerce. It’s also known for its quality of life, combining affordable living costs with excellent public services. With its vibrant social scene and a friendly community, Lyon is an ideal destination for those seeking a fresh start abroad!

Whether you’re working in one of its global corporations or enjoying a leisurely picnic by the Rhône, Lyon offers a life many dream of. Why just work when you can thrive in a city like this? 🥂

France’s gastronomical heart: Lyon!

The history of modern Lyon

Lyon’s history stretches back over 2,000 years, making it a UNESCO World Heritage area. As the former capital of Gaul during Roman times, the city has treasures like the ancient Roman Theatre on Fourvière Hill, which still hosts performances to this day. The Renaissance quarter of Vieux Lyon is a labyrinth of hidden passageways that take you to another era!

But Lyon isn’t just a city full of history. It’s a forward-thinking metropolis known for its innovation in technology and design. The annual Festival of Lights, Fête des Lumières, transforms the city into a glowing masterpiece, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. ✨

And then, of course, there’s the food! Lyon is a culinary paradise, home to some of France’s best chefs and its signature dishes, like quenelles and tarte à la praline. Whether dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cozy bouchon, every meal in Lyon feels like a celebration. 🍴

Lyon is also a city of festivals and artistic expression. From the Nuits Sonores music festival to the Biennale de la Danse, there’s always something happening to ignite your creativity and inspire new adventures!

Lyon’s famous must-sees

Dreaming of living in Lyon? These are the spots you shouldn’t miss:

• Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière: perched high above the city, this iconic church offers breathtaking views and stunning mosaics.
• Parc de la Tête d'Or: a sprawling park with a lake, botanical gardens, and even a small zoo—perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
• Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse: this is a food lover’s paradise filled with local delicacies and gourmet treats.
• Confluence Museum: an architectural marvel that explores the intersection of science, history, and culture.
• Croix-Rousse: known as the ‘neighbourhood of the canuts’ (silk workers), this bohemian area is full of cafes, street art, and charm.

The flavours of Lyon

Lyon’s cuisine is a love letter to French gastronomy, earning it the title of France’s culinary capital. The city’s food scene is a mix of rustic traditions and gourmet innovation. A must-try is Quenelles, a delicate dumpling made from fish or meat, served in a creamy sauce. Another good one is Saucisson Brioché, a sausage baked in buttery brioche. And don’t leave without tasting Salade Lyonnaise, a flavorful mix of greens, crispy lardons, poached egg, and croutons. 🥗

For an authentic foodie adventure, explore Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the city’s iconic indoor market. Named after the legendary chef, this gastronomic paradise is filled with stalls selling everything from charcuterie to fine cheeses and handmade pastries.

Looking for memorable dining spots? 🍲 Le Bouchon des Cordeliers offers classic Lyonnais dishes in a cozy setting, while La Mère Brazier, with its Michelin-starred acclaim, showcases the heights of French cuisine. Craving something innovative? Head to Food Traboule, a trendy food hall where young chefs reinvent classic flavors in exciting ways. Bon appétit! 

Find jobs in Lyon with Yobbers

Dreaming of living in Lyon? Yobbers is here to make it happen! Our mission is to inspire people to discover the world through working abroad. With Yobbers, transitioning to a new city is easier than ever. 🌍 

We’ll guide you through every step of the application process, from landing your new job to settling into your new home in Lyon. Our dedicated Relocation Experts are here to support you with everything, whether it’s paperwork or tips for navigating French life.

"Living in France is like being in a village with the perks of a city. Within a month, I felt at home—finding my way around, enjoying the beach, and discovering the charm of the old town." – Moniek 👉 Read about her life in France. 

Most common jobs in Lyon

Wondering what jobs in Lyon you will find? Here’s what to expect:

Digital Marketing 🌐 For creative strategists and digital thinkers. Lyon is a hotspot for tech-savvy marketers to create impactful campaigns for global and local brands.

Customer Service 💬 For communicators who love being the friendly face. With many international companies based here, Lyon offers opportunities for Customer Service roles in your own native language.

Finance and Accounting 📊 For detail-oriented professionals. As a major economic hub, Lyon has thriving opportunities in financial analysis, auditing, and account management.

Still searching for the perfect role? Explore our jobs in Lyon and let Yobbers help you find your next adventure.

How to move to Lyon?

If you’re an EU citizen, moving to Lyon is quite hassle-free. You won’t need a work visa to start your new job. Most employers via Yobbers will assist you with essential steps like securing a French Social Security number and setting up health insurance. 

When you apply through Yobbers, we’ll ensure that you have guidance every step of the way, making your move as smooth as possible. We’re here to support you! Ready to make the leap? 😄

The work environment in Lyon

Working in Lyon brings you a professional yet balanced work culture that reflects the French emphasis on quality of life. The work environment tends to be collaborative and focused on maintaining harmony between career and personal life. The French value teamwork and clear communication. Hybrid work models are also becoming more common, giving professionals flexibility while maintaining strong connections.

Do’s in the workplace in Lyon:

• Greet your colleagues properly: a handshake is the standard, but in more familiar settings, you might exchange a kiss on both cheeks (la bise).
• Respect formality in communication: titles like “Monsieur” or “Madame” are often used, particularly in professional introductions or emails.
• Appreciate the lunch break: lunch is an important part of French culture, and it’s common to enjoy meals together as a team.
• Learn some French phrases: even basic conversational French is appreciated and shows effort.

Don’ts in the workplace in Lyon:

• Don’t skip social moments: jumping straight to business without small talk can seem abrupt.
• Avoid being overly casual early on: French workplaces often balance professional respect with friendliness, so it’s best to start formally and adjust as relationships build.
• Don’t interrupt during meetings: thoughtful contributions are valued, but interruptions may be seen as rude.

Your salary and costs in Lyon

In France, the standard workweek is 35 hours, and the minimum wage is about €1,848 gross per month (as of 2024). The lower living costs in many areas help maintain a comfortable standard of living. Living costs vary depending on location, but are more affordable in Lyon compared to Paris. Groceries, utilities, and public transport are also reasonably priced, and dining out tends to be affordable as well!

The best neighbourhoods to live in Lyon

Choosing where to live in Lyon depends on your lifestyle preferences and budget. The city’s neighbourhoods offer a variety of options! 👀

In the heart of Lyon, Presqu'île buzzes with energy, offering historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a wealth of shops and restaurants. It’s a favourite for young professionals and expats, despite higher rents, thanks to its lively atmosphere.

With its cobblestone streets, Renaissance buildings, and boutique cafes, Vieux Lyon has a timeless charm. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s perfect for history lovers!

Perched on a hill, Croix-Rousse has a bohemian, artsy vibe. Its market streets, local shops, and stunning views make it a haven for creatives and young families drawn to its relaxed atmosphere. 🧘‍♀️

Modern and practical, Part-Dieu is Lyon’s business hub, offering excellent transport to the train station. It’s an ideal spot for commuters and corporate professionals.

Just outside the city center, Villeurbanne provides affordable housing and strong connections to Lyon. This makes it a top choice for students, young families, and budget-conscious expats.

Central areas like Presqu'île and Vieux Lyon are among the most expensive, with one-bedroom apartments often starting around €900–€1,200 per month. Villeurbanne and Croix-Rousse are more affordable, where rents range from €600–€800 for private apartments. Shared apartments are popular among young professionals, with individual rooms usually between €400 and €600.

Platforms like HousingAnywhere, Homelike, and Facebook groups are great for finding accommodation in Lyon. Networking with locals or your future coworkers can also lead to great finds, and we will provide you with some extra tips during your application process, in case your employer doesn’t offer accommodation! 🏡

"The atmosphere in France is exactly as you would imagine—relaxed, laid-back, and full of sunshine. Whether it’s sipping cocktails on a terrace or enjoying the sun, life here is effortless and enjoyable." – Moniek 👉 Discover why she moved to France here.

Travelling through Lyon and France

Getting around Lyon is seamless thanks to its excellent public transport system. 🚌 The TCL network connects the city through an extensive system of metro lines, trams, buses, and even a funicular railway, perfect for accessing the hilltop district of Fourvière. 

For eco-friendly options, cycling is popular. Vélo offers thousands of bikes throughout the city, with stations conveniently located in all major areas. Subscriptions are affordable, starting at just €31 per year! 🤑 Or use an electric scooter from Lime or Tier!

For longer travels, regional trains connect Lyon with surrounding towns and suburbs. 🚄 If you prefer private transport, taxis and apps like Uber and Bolt also operate in Lyon, providing easy access at any time!

Living in Lyon, what’s it really like?

Living in Lyon is an adventure you’ll never forget. Take it from Lisa, who moved to Lyon in 2023 to work for a tech startup.

“I was drawn to Lyon because of its balance—an innovative business scene, incredible food, and a slower pace than Paris. The city is beautiful, with so much history and culture at every street.”

Initially nervous about the language barrier, Lisa found the locals welcoming and supportive. “I quickly realized how much they appreciate it when you make an effort to speak French, even if it’s not perfect.” 🇫🇷

Lisa soon discovered Lyon’s culinary magic. “From local bouchons to trendy wine bars, every meal is an experience. My weekends are spent at the Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse, I’ve become a real foodie!”

But Lyon isn’t just about food. Its central location allows easy travel across France and Europe. “I’ve taken weekend trips to Paris, the Alps, and even Milan—it’s so easy from here!”

For Lisa, moving to Lyon was life-changing. “I’ve built a career and a life I love. The city is vibrant yet manageable, and the work-life balance here is amazing. My advice? If you’re considering working in Lyon, don’t hesitate—it has something for everyone.”