Living in Reims: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Reims.
Reims is a historic city located in northeastern France, approximately 130 km from Paris in the Grand Est region. With a population of around 182,000 in the city proper and nearly 300,000 in the greater metropolitan area, Reims combines the charm of a medium-sized city with excellent connectivity to the French capital. Known as the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, Reims boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a rich history as the coronation city of French kings.
5 Good Reasons to Move to Reims
- Exceptional Paris connectivity – The TGV high-speed train connects Reims to Paris Gare de l'Est in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for commuters or those who want easy access to the capital.
- Affordable cost of living – Housing and daily expenses are significantly lower than Paris while maintaining a high quality of life.
- World-renowned gastronomy – As the birthplace of Champagne, Reims offers unparalleled access to prestigious Champagne houses and Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Outstanding higher education – Home to the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, NEOMA Business School, and Sciences Po, attracting over 35,000 students.
- Rich cultural heritage – Four UNESCO sites including the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral where French kings were crowned for over 1,000 years.
Working in Reims: Career Opportunities in the Champagne Capital
The job market in Reims offers diverse opportunities across several key sectors. The city serves as the economic hub of the Grand Est region, with a growing service economy complementing its traditional industries. Non-EU/EEA nationals will need a valid work permit and long-stay visa (VLS-TS) to work in France, while EU/EEA citizens can work freely.
Key Employment Sectors
The Champagne industry remains the city's economic backbone, with major houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Ruinart headquartered here. Beyond wine, the food processing sector employs thousands, with companies such as Mars Inc. and Nestlé operating facilities in the region. The healthcare sector is another major employer, anchored by the CHU de Reims university hospital. The pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim also has a significant presence.
Employment Data
The following table provides key employment indicators for Reims:
Unemployment Rate (Q4 2024) | 8.2% |
Average Annual Salary | €44,500 |
Key Sectors | Champagne, Food Processing, Healthcare, Education, Business Services |
Sources: Ville-Data / INSEE 2024, Salary Expert
Higher Education in Reims: World-Class Universities and Business Schools
Reims has established itself as a major student city in France, with one in six residents being a student. The city hosts over 40 higher education institutions, offering programs ranging from undergraduate degrees to doctoral research. International students benefit from dedicated support services and a vibrant academic community.
University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne (URCA)
The University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne is the largest institution in the region, with over 26,000 students across multiple campuses. It offers programs in law, economics, sciences, humanities, and health sciences. The university has an International French Learning Centre (CIEF) providing French language courses for international students. Tuition fees for non-EU students range from €2,770 to €3,770 per year depending on the program level. For more information, visit www.univ-reims.fr.
NEOMA Business School
NEOMA Business School is one of France's top-ranked business schools, holding triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA). The Reims campus welcomes approximately 9,000 students, including 2,250 international students from over 100 nationalities. Programs are offered in both French and English, with tuition ranging from €12,000 to €20,000 per year. NEOMA has been awarded the "Bienvenue en France" label recognizing its quality support for international students. Visit neoma-bs.com for details.
Sciences Po Reims
The Sciences Po campus in Reims offers unique Euro-American and Euro-African programs taught in English and French. Over 50% of students are international, representing more than 50 nationalities. The campus is housed in a magnificent 17th-century former Jesuit college. Information available at www.sciencespo.fr.
Schools for Expat Children: From Public Education to International Options
France offers free, high-quality public education from age 3 to 18. In Reims, expat families can choose between the French public school system and international education options. The academic year runs from early September to early July, with several holiday periods throughout the year.
The French Public School System
French public schools follow a national curriculum regulated by the Ministère de l'Éducation Nationale. Education is divided into école maternelle (ages 3-6), école élémentaire (ages 6-11), collège (ages 11-15), and lycée (ages 15-18). Public schooling is free, with only minor costs for supplies and optional activities. Schools in Reims maintain good standards, and enrollment is typically done at the local mairie (town hall).
International Section in Reims
Reims offers an International Section within the public school system for bilingual education. The section is available at primary level (École Paul Fort, approximately 75 students) and secondary level (Lycée Marc Chagall, approximately 90-100 students from Seconde to Terminale). Students study literature and history-geography in English while following the standard French curriculum. The program prepares students for the Baccalauréat Français International (BFI), recognized for university admission worldwide. Contact: ce.0511926S@ac-reims.fr.
Alternative Options
For families seeking a full English-language curriculum, the closest options are international schools in Paris (approximately 45 minutes by TGV), including the American School of Paris, British School of Paris, and École Jeannine Manuel. Tuition at these schools typically ranges from €15,000 to €35,000 per year.
Sources: Association Amicale de l'Ecole Internationale de Reims, French Ministry of Education
Housing in Reims: Neighborhoods and Rental Market
The housing market in Reims offers excellent value compared to Paris and other major French cities. The city center features a mix of historic buildings from the Art Deco reconstruction period and modern developments. Rental procedures typically require proof of income (usually 3x the monthly rent), a French guarantor or guarantee service, and home insurance.
Popular Neighborhoods for Expats
The Centre-Ville (city center) is ideal for those wanting walkability and proximity to shops, restaurants, and the cathedral. Expect to pay premium prices but enjoy convenience. The Clairmarais district near the TGV station suits Paris commuters, with modern developments and good transport links. Courlancy in the southwest offers a family-friendly atmosphere near the large Parc Léo-Lagrange, with good schools and a trendy reputation. Croix-Rouge is home to the university campus and attracts students and young professionals with affordable rents.
Rental Prices
The following table shows typical monthly rental prices in Reims:
Studio / 1-Bedroom (City Center) | €700 – €1,000 |
2-Bedroom Apartment | €900 – €1,150 |
3-Bedroom Apartment / House | €1,100 – €1,500 |
Utilities (Monthly Average) | €80 – €150 |
Sources: MorningCroissant 2025, Numbeo
Leisure and Culture: Champagne Tastings, UNESCO Sites, and More
Reims offers an exceptional quality of life with world-class cultural attractions, renowned gastronomy, and easy access to the Champagne vineyards. The city perfectly balances historical heritage with modern entertainment options, ensuring residents always have something to explore.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture where 30 French kings were crowned over 1,000 years. Admission is free. Adjacent to the cathedral, the Palais du Tau (former archbishop's palace) houses treasures from royal coronations. The Basilica of Saint-Remi, the largest Romanesque church in northern France, and its adjacent museum complete the UNESCO trio. Since 2015, the Champagne Hillsides, Houses, and Cellars have also been UNESCO-listed, including the remarkable chalk cellars (crayères) beneath the city.
Champagne Houses
Reims is home to legendary Champagne houses offering tours and tastings. Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, Ruinart (the oldest house, founded in 1729), and G.H. Mumm all welcome visitors to their historic cellars. Tours typically cost €30-€85 and include tastings. The Villa Demoiselle, an Art Nouveau gem, offers a unique cultural experience.
Museums and Entertainment
The Musée des Beaux-Arts displays works from the Renaissance to modern times, including pieces by Cranach, Poussin, and Matisse. The Musée Automobile Reims Champagne showcases over 200 vintage vehicles. For performing arts, La Comédie de Reims and L'Opéra de Reims host regular performances. The La Cartonnerie concert hall brings contemporary music acts. Parks such as Parc de Champagne and Parc Léo-Lagrange offer green spaces for relaxation and sports.
Daily Life in Reims: Transport, Culture, and Practical Tips
Daily life in Reims combines the convenience of a well-organized French city with the relaxed pace of provincial living. The city is compact enough to navigate easily, yet offers all modern amenities. Most residents enjoy a balanced lifestyle with easy access to work, shopping, and leisure activities.
Getting Around
The public transport network CITURA (Grand Reims Mobilités) operates 2 tram lines and 21 bus routes, running daily from 5:15 AM to 12:25 AM. A single ticket costs approximately €1.60, while a 24-hour pass is €3.70. Monthly subscriptions range from €22 for students to €40 for adults. The tram efficiently connects the city center to the TGV station and university campus. For Paris commuters, the TGV from Reims takes just 45 minutes to Gare de l'Est, with tickets starting at approximately €20 when booked in advance.
Shopping and Services
The main commercial street, Rue de Vesle and Place Drouet-d'Erlon, offers shops, cafés, and restaurants. Supermarkets include Carrefour, Leclerc, and Monoprix. The covered Marché du Boulingrin is a beautiful Art Deco market hall perfect for fresh produce. Banking services are widely available, with major French banks represented throughout the city.
Healthcare
Healthcare in France is excellent and largely covered by the national Sécurité Sociale system. The CHU de Reims is the main university hospital providing comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are abundant and indicated by green crosses. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary coverage, while long-term residents should register with the French healthcare system.
Cost of Living in Reims: Monthly Budget Breakdown
Reims offers a cost of living approximately 30-40% lower than Paris while maintaining high living standards. The city ranks among the more affordable medium-sized cities in France, making it attractive for expats seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.
Monthly Budget for a Single Person
The following table estimates monthly expenses for a single professional living in Reims:
Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
Rent (1-bedroom, center) | €750 | Furnished apartment |
Utilities | €100 | Electricity, heating, water |
Groceries | €300 | Supermarket shopping |
Transport | €40 | Monthly pass |
Health Insurance | €50 | Mutuelle (top-up) |
Leisure/Dining | €200 | Restaurants, activities |
Total | €1,440 |
Monthly Budget for a Family of Four
Families should expect higher expenses, particularly for housing and childcare:
Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
Rent (3-bedroom) | €1,300 | Family apartment |
Utilities | €180 | Electricity, heating, water |
Groceries | €600 | Family shopping |
Transport | €80 | Family passes |
Schooling (public) | €100 | Supplies, canteen |
Health Insurance | €150 | Family mutuelle |
Leisure/Activities | €300 | Family outings |
Total | €2,710 |
Sources: Numbeo 2025
In Short
Reims offers an exceptional combination of heritage, affordability, and connectivity that makes it ideal for expats seeking a balanced lifestyle in France. Just 45 minutes from Paris by TGV, the city provides access to world-class education at institutions like NEOMA Business School and the University of Reims, while housing costs remain significantly lower than the capital. The four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, legendary Champagne houses, and vibrant cultural scene ensure a rich quality of life. Whether you're drawn by career opportunities in the Champagne industry, seeking excellent higher education, or simply looking for an authentic French experience, Reims delivers on all fronts. Ready to take the next step? Connect with fellow expats and get local advice on the Expat.com Reims forum.
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