Find your new life
Do you want to invest in Marseille but don’t know which neighborhood to choose? The city is vast and each area has its own character. Some neighborhoods are lively and well connected, others are more residential and quiet. Price per square meter, rental potential, quality of life… several criteria must be considered to make the right choice. This article helps you get a clearer picture and identify the most interesting neighborhoods to buy in Marseille.
Marseille is a growing city, ideal for real estate investment. Prices remain attractive compared to other major French cities, with good rental yields. Demand is strong, driven by students, young professionals, and the economic activity of the port and innovation hubs.
Major urban development projects, like Euroméditerranée, are upgrading neighborhoods and enhancing the city’s appeal. Investing in Marseille in 2025 means seizing a profitable opportunity in a developing market.
Property prices in Marseille remain attractive compared to those of other major French cities. On average, the price per square metre varies according to the district: it is higher in sought-after areas such as the 7th or 8th, while interesting opportunities exist in rapidly changing neighbourhoods such as the 3rd, 10th or 15th.
For a complete and up-to-date analysis, see our guide to the price per square metre in Marseille, with a focus on each neighbourhood.
The market is rising slightly, driven by strong rental demand and numerous urban renewal projects. Investing in Marseille therefore allows you to benefit from good value for money, with real potential for medium-term capital appreciation.
Located to the north of the Vieux-Port, the La Joliette district has been completely transformed in recent years. A former working-class area, it has been completely renovated as part of the Euroméditerranée project. The result is a modern, dynamic and well-connected neighbourhood, with direct access to the tramway and metro line 2.
Today, La Joliette has become Marseille's business centre. Its seaside location, green spaces and urban atmosphere are particularly attractive to young professionals. La Joliette can also be an excellent choice for those who wish to With an average price of €3,206 per square metre, the neighbourhood has seen an increase of more than 12% over one year, compared with 9.9% for the city as a whole (source: meilleursagents.com).
Investing in La Joliette means investing in a rapidly growing sector with strong potential for capital appreciation. It is one of the most promising neighbourhoods in Marseille. As always, it is advisable to analyse the local market and get support before buying.
Located in the north of the city, the Euroméditerranée 2 district is one of the most recent urban transformation projects in Marseille. The result of an extension of the Euroméditerranée programme, it embodies modern urban planning, centred on sustainable development and quality of life.
With the planned construction of 14,000 new homes, this district offers real opportunities for long-term rental investment. Although it is still under development, it is already attracting the attention of investors.
Prices are relatively high due to the new properties, but the potential for capital appreciation is real. In October 2022, the average price per square metre in the 2nd arrondissement reached €3,610 for apartments, an increase of 12.7% over one year (source: meilleursagents.com).
Euroméditerranée 2 may not yet be the most dynamic neighbourhood, but it is clearly on a long-term growth trajectory. A sector to follow closely.
To the east of the city centre, the 4th arrondissement acts as a transition between the heart of Marseille and its outskirts. It is home to iconic places such as Longchamp Park and the Natural History Museum, while offering a more residential atmosphere.
Although slightly set back from the centre, the district remains very well connected. The A50 motorway, Boulevard Françoise Duparc, tram line 2, metro line 1 and the Blancarde station ensure excellent accessibility, without the need for a car on a daily basis.
It is an attractive area because of its balance: close to the centre yet quieter, with green spaces and a varied cultural offering. This setting attracts families, working people and those seeking tranquillity.
The 4th arrondissement continues to evolve and attract more and more investors. Its location, efficient transport links and pleasant environment make it a neighbourhood with great potential. As with any property project, it is advisable to seek local advice before investing.
Located in the heart of the city, the 1st arrondissement is one of the liveliest areas of Marseille. It includes the Vieux-Port, schools and universities, a rich cultural offering and a lively nightlife. This neighbourhood is particularly popular with students and young professionals.
The housing stock is mainly composed of older properties, with a high proportion of small units (studios, one-room and two-room apartments) in Haussmann-style buildings. The district is very well served by public transport (tram, bus, metro), which further enhances its attractiveness.
With strong rental demand and attractive profitability, the 1st arrondissement represents a safe bet for investors. Average prices are as follows:
Between October 2021 and October 2022, prices jumped by 14%, confirming the dynamism of the local market.
The central location, proximity to schools and lively urban life make this neighbourhood a solid option for a rental investment. However, as with any real estate project, it is advisable to seek professional advice to secure your purchase.
The 5th arrondissement is characterised by its dynamic urban atmosphere and trendy neighbourhoods such as La Conception, Le Camas and Saint-Pierre. It particularly attracts young professionals looking for a lively environment with bars, restaurants and local shops. Buying a new flat in this area means you can enjoy a modern environment while remaining close to the city centre.
Contrary to popular belief, the 5ᵉ is not isolated. It has numerous sports and leisure facilities and schools, both public and private. In terms of transport, the district is well connected thanks to:
These residential areas are therefore worth considering for those who wish to invest in Marseille with a good balance between stability, comfortable living and profitability.
If you are considering living on the outskirts of Marseille, take a look at our feature on the best places to live around Marseille. Neighbourhoods such as Saint-Barnabé or La Valentine offer an excellent compromise between comfortable living, accessibility and rental demand.
