In France, more than 2.8 million students look for accommodation each year, making student cities a key focus for understanding the reality of student housing. In many urban areas, supply is no longer keeping pace with demand: the student housing market is characterized by high rental pressure, especially as the start of the academic year approaches. The result: pressure on rents, increased competition between students, and saturation of dedicated residences. However, not all cities are affected to the same degree. Certain university areas have a high concentration of students, lasting academic appeal, and a structural imbalance between supply and demand for housing. Understanding these dynamics makes it possible to identify where student housing is most in demand, but also where it is becoming most difficult to find accommodation. This guide provides a detailed analysis of these areas, the key criteria to consider, and the French student cities where rental pressure is currently most acute.