Best Cross-Border Neighborhoods to Live Near Geneva in 2026

When you decide to live on the French side and work in Geneva, choosing the right neighborhood is crucial. Commute time, price per square meter, lifestyle, transport access... each town has its strengths.

Here's our ranking of the best cross-border neighborhoods in 2026, based on our experience with over 100 residents at La Villa Coliving.

1. Ville-la-Grand — Best Value for Money

📍 Distance from Geneva: 15 min by car, 25 min by public transport 💰 Average studio rent: €650 – €850/month 🏡 Vibe: residential, quiet, close to nature

Ville-la-Grand is our top pick. This is where La Villa, our first coliving house, is located. The town offers:

• Immediate proximity to the Moillesulaz border crossing (5 min)
• Green spaces: nearby Moulin de Vert nature reserve
• Shopping: Vitam shopping center 10 min away, supermarkets
• Schools and services: all essential amenities available

Best for: families, couples, people seeking peace while staying connected to Geneva.

2. Ambilly — Urban Charm Steps from the Border

📍 Distance from Geneva: 10 min by car, 20 min by bus 💰 Average studio rent: €700 – €900/month 🏢 Vibe: urban, dynamic, multicultural

Ambilly is the closest town to the border. This is where Le Loft, our urban-style coliving house, is located. Highlights:

• Border on foot: 5 minutes walk to the border crossing
• Transport: direct TPG bus lines to Geneva
• Local life: restaurants, shops, markets
• Central location: between Annemasse and the Swiss border

Best for: young professionals, car-free living, urban lifestyle lovers.

3. Annemasse — The Dynamic Greater Geneva Hub

📍 Distance from Geneva: 10 min by Léman Express, 15 min by car 💰 Average studio rent: €700 – €950/month 🌆 Vibe: medium-sized city, shopping, nightlife

Annemasse is Greater Geneva's hub on the French side. This is where Le Lodge, our largest house, is located. Key advantages:

• Léman Express: city center station, 10 min to Geneva Cornavin
• Vibrant downtown: cinema, restaurants, bars, Saturday market
• Full services: hospital, government offices, schools
• Economic growth: expanding employment zone

Best for: those who want real city life while enjoying a Swiss salary.

4. Gaillard — The Perfect Compromise

📍 Distance from Geneva: 10 min by bus/tram 💰 Average studio rent: €680 – €880/month 🏘️ Vibe: residential, family-friendly

Gaillard sits between Annemasse and the Swiss border. Advantages:

• Annemasse-Geneva tram planned for 2027
• Close to border: 5 min from Moillesulaz crossing
• Attractive prices: slightly cheaper than Ambilly
• Neighborhood life: bakeries, markets, parks

5. Saint-Julien-en-Genevois — The Premium Village

📍 Distance from Geneva: 20 min by car 💰 Average studio rent: €750 – €1,000/month 🏔️ Vibe: chic village, mountain views

Saint-Julien is further away but offers an exceptional living environment:

• Alps and Salève views: stunning landscapes
• Quality of life: quiet, green spaces, organic markets
• More affordable than you'd think: interesting value ratio
• Highway access: quick access to Geneva via A40

Downside: more remote, car almost essential.

Quick Comparison

Our Solution: 3 Houses in the 3 Best Neighborhoods

At La Villa Coliving, we strategically chose our locations:

• La Villa in Ville-la-Grand — 10 residents, heated pool, 2,000 m² garden
• Le Loft in Ambilly — 7 residents, indoor pool, urban style
• Le Lodge in Annemasse — 12 residents, pool, gym, large gardens

All our houses offer all-inclusive furnished rooms at 1,380 CHF/month. Check our rates or apply now.