Accommodation
The town has made a point of creating a full range of social housing, either by restoring properties or by building new accommodation. Accommodation in the town is characterised by its roots in the history of Michelin worker housing. These homes are still lived in by employees of the Michelin company, but many have now been sold to individuals or to the HLM (low rent accommodation) organisations. As a rule, prices remain reasonable, either to buy or rent. You can even find some luxury homes, but these are not within the reach of all pockets. Sometimes, it is necessary to take a chance and to visit buildings which look unappealing from the outside. Clermont-Ferrand’s attractions are often hidden, or at any rate they do not show themselves very much. It is a traditional trait of people from the Auvergne not to be too ostentatious.
Les aides au logement (housing benefit)
To obtain housing benefit, you must submit a request to the CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales - Family benefit office).
The Crous (student social support service)
The Crous (student social support service) offers six types of accommodation: rooms in university residences, renovated rooms, studios, small flats, HLM (low rent accommodation) apartments, as well as a service offering accommodation in the town.
Hostels
HLM (low rent accommodation) offices
It is worth investigating HLM accommodation, even though waiting lists can be quite long.
