In the 21st edition of the ranking by L'Étudiant, published on May 27, 2026, Rennes takes the second place among the best student cities in France.
Rennes on the Podium
A solid performance, right behind Toulouse, which retains the top spot for the second consecutive year. Montpellier completes this top trio. But beyond the podium, a whole dynamic is emerging: that of an ultra-attractive Grand Ouest. Rennes is featured in a top 10 largely dominated by cities like Caen, Nantes, Brest, and Angers. This is a first that confirms a real change in students' choices.
A city that ticks (almost) all the boxes
If Rennes is so enchanting, it’s no coincidence. The city strikes a balance that few others achieve: a pleasant living environment, a rich educational offering, and a real daily energy. When it comes to studies, the possibilities are plentiful: recognized universities, prestigious schools, specialized training… Rennes attracts a variety of profiles and allows everyone to find their path. But studying here isn’t just about attending classes; it’s also about enjoying a vibrant, youthful, and dynamic city. With the downtown bars, concerts, festivals, and cultural events, there’s always something happening.
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A quality of life that makes a difference
One of the key criteria for this ranking remains quality of life, and on this point, Rennes scores big! Cheaper than Paris — which drops to 19th place mainly due to high housing costs — the Breton city is more accessible, even though the real estate market can be a bit tight. Transport is efficient, getting around is easy, and the size of the city allows you to do everything quickly, often on foot or by bike. It’s this blend of practicality and comfort that charms so many students. The 2026 ranking methodology has actually evolved, with even more precise criteria: air quality assessed according to ATMO France recommendations, a better-evaluated cultural offering, and a new accessibility criterion for disabilities developed in collaboration with APF France Handicap. Rennes shines in all these areas!
Grand Ouest, a new playground for students
This ranking confirms a strong trend: the Grand Ouest…Students are increasingly turning to smaller cities. Gone is the time of all things Paris; now we have more balanced metropolises where you can study, go out, work... and actually breathe. Rennes perfectly embodies this new generation of student-friendly cities. With a vibrant job market, a flourishing cultural scene, and a genuine quality of life, it’s now attracting folks from far beyond Brittany.