The rental market in Lyon has seen a major drop, with the number of available rental homes decreasing by 60.7 percent between July 2019 and July 2026, according to the real estate platform Bien'ici. This sharp decline has made it increasingly difficult for people, especially those with lower incomes, young professionals, and the 180,000 students in the area, to find affordable housing. The situation has created a growing challenge for residents seeking stable living conditions in the city. Frédéric Berthet, president of Fnaim of the Rhône, describes the current rental market as a "two-speed market," highlighting how it has become unaffordable for many. He states, "Today, an employee, a student can no longer afford to live in Lyon." Berthet notes that the housing crisis is not just a real estate issue but also affects the region's economic and social appeal. Companies based in Lyon are struggling to attract and retain workers, as the lack of affordable housing makes it hard for potential employees to settle in the area. The problem has also discouraged landlords from participating in the rental market. A combination of factors, including rising costs and regulatory constraints, has made it less attractive for property owners to offer their homes for rent. This has further reduced the supply of available housing, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. The situation in Lyon reflects broader challenges faced by cities across France and other parts of Europe, where housing affordability has become a pressing concern. As the demand for housing continues to outpace supply, local authorities and policymakers are under pressure to find solutions that can address both the immediate needs of residents and the long-term sustainability of the housing market.