If you are considering moving to France but are unsure just whereabouts in France you want to make your new home, then this guide to the regions of France will give you plenty of lanourriture for thought.
Going to live in France is a safe bet for many people who want a more laid back lifestyle, to be able to enjoy delicious food and wine, to have a better quality of life at a more affordable price than the UK, whilst being just a couple of hours away from the UK to get back to visit friends and family. And of course for them to come and stay with you which they will certainly want to.
France is already familiar to us, we share many words, and the weather, although better in many parts of France is not too dissimilar to the UK’s, and of course, French food and wine is readily available in the UK. Therefore it is not quite such a culture shock as moving to a country that is off the beaten track.
That said, France is different enough that you will have
plenty to learn about local customs and cultures and you will certainly need a
good command of the French language for many parts of the country.
So here is a guide to moving to France broken down by points of the compass, then by region, as each region differs vastly from another, and each offers a unique and wonderful way of life for British expats.
Often overlooked by Britsh expats, northern France has much to offer those who prefer a more traditional way of life away from the tourist hot spots.
And maybe that is one of the reasons that this area of France is often neglected by many people moving to France, there are no hot spots, temperature-wise. The weather here is similar to UK weather, and many people move overseas to enjoy long sunny summer days.
But unlike some areas of France where there is a shortage of
available property, the north of France will offer you a good selection of very
desirable homes at a very reasonable price.
The north of France is steeped in culture and history, each
region offering you something different to explore and experience.
Moving to Nord-Pas-de-Calais
At the very northern tip of France, on the border of
Belgium, you will Nord-Pas-de-Calais, with the Channel to the north and Picardy
to the south.
The people of Nord-Pas-de-Calais are renowned for their friendliness and willingness to party. They love nothing more than big family get-togethers or attending one of the thousands of festivals held throughout the year. This region also boasts the accolade of having the happiest people in France.
This is a beautiful region with rolling lush countryside and
sandy beaches. Culture features heavily in this region and it is here you will
find the Musee du Louvre-Lens, a satellite of the Louvre, of Paris fame, as
well as 48 museums dotted throughout the region.
You will be spoilt for choice if you seek stunning art deco
architecture, medieval villages, cobbled streets, quaint coastal villages, and
traditional country towns.
Lille is the capital of the region and is a historical gem, and it is here you will find the UNESCO listed Vauban Citadel. Art lovers will be enthralled at the huge collection of art at The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille and at Lille Metropole. With stunning buildings, great shops, a vast array of cafes, and a calendar full of unique and exciting events, Lille is sure to provide you with a great lifestyle
Le Tourquet-Paris-Plage is popular with expat Brits and it is easy to see why. The town is famous for its art deco architecture and luxury villas set in stunning woodland. There is a huge range of leisure activities to take part in from horseriding to back-gammon, but surely taking leisurely strolls through the streets of this beautiful town, soaking up the history and ambience, chatting to friends and neighbours, or sipping coffee watching the world walk by will become a favourite pastime.
Moving to
Normandy
Normandy is in northwestern France and is a favourite place for expat Brits to relocate due to the easy access to the ports, the beautiful countryside, laid back lifestyle, and the traditional way of life of here.
This region is steeped in history and culture and is most famous for its tradition of painting. The list of famous artists from this region is endless but is headed by Claude Monet, and the beautiful landscape of Normandy has inspired countless paintings by such artistic legends as William Turner and Pablo Picasso.
The climate here is often compared to that of Southwest England, and Normandy also shares a deep passion for cider with our Westcountry. Calvados is the local brew here rather than wine and is a perfect partner for the gastronomic delights of Normandy.
Normandy attracts not just those looking to retire here to enjoy a more traditional way of life, many British expat families choose to move here too. Family life is very important to the French, they value good schooling, spending time as a family doing outdoor activities, and of course, socialising.
If you have a good command of the French language then it is
possible to find work here, unlike many parts of France where even with a good
level of French language they will almost always employ natives first.
Moving to Normandy allows you to have a quality of life that would be unattainable for most in the UK. The cost of living and price of the property offers excellent value for money, coupled with fresh and healthy food, good schooling, beautiful homes in stunning settings, and easy access back to the UK to visit family, it is easy to understand why Normandy is so appealing.
Moving to
Picardy
Amiens, Picardy
Picardy is on the northeastern coast of France and is bordered by Pas-de-Calais to the north, Champagne to the east, Ile-de-France to the south, and Normandy to the west.
Picardy is easily accessible and offers quick and easy routes to visit family back in the UK, and for them, of course, to come to visit you.
You can choose from Dover to Calais ferries, the Eurostar, Dover to Boulogne ferries, and there is Charles de Gaulle airport just to the south of Picardy.
Most people will pass through Picardy on their way south or
to Paris and will fail to notice what an enchanting region of France this is.
Picardy is home to an immense number of Gothic churches,
quaint blue cottages, and lush wooded river valleys.
Amiens is the capital city of Picardy and is home to the
mightily impressive Amiens Cathedral, the largest Gothic building in France.
And if you enjoy architecture then you will not want to miss the medieval castle at Pierrefonds, the Chateau de Pierrefonds, which overlooks this picturesque lakeside village.
Every region of France is passionate about food, and Picardy is no exception. From the Maroilles cheese to hearty soups, freshwater fish to frogs, the menu is varied and delicious. Cider is a favourite tipple of this region but they also produce champagne just south of Aisne.
Festivals play a huge part in the lives of the residents of
Picardy and you will find a calendar full of exciting and traditional events.
Being such a rural region, Picardy is perfect for outdoor leisure activities. From hunting, fishing, cycling, hiking, sailing, and canoeing to horse riding. There are over a hundred equestrian centres in this region with a number of racecourses. Watersports enthusiasts will love that there are so many wonderful rivers to fish in and that there are over 700km of canals to enjoy, as well as 80km of coastline where you will find both sandy and pebble beaches.
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What are the Average Property Prices in Northern France?
Average Property Prices in Basse-Normandie
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Basse-Normandie is €80,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Basse-Normandie is €110,500
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Basse-Normandie is €139,000
Average Property Prices in Haute-Normandie
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Haute-Normandie is €102,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Haute-Normandie is €132,400
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Haute-Normandie is €156,000
Average Property Prices in Picardy
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Picardy is €93,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Picardy is €125,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Picardy is €152,000
What is the Average Cost of Moving from London to Picardy?
Last year saw a sharp rise in the cost of moving to France as a result of increased fuel and labour costs, the effects of the pandemic, and the post-Brexit customs paperwork and procedures.
These are average prices based on the average price that people moving to France are currently paying, but with ever-increasing costs, these prices are likely to change.
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from London to Picardy
By Road: £2,000-£2,300
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from London to Picardy
By Road: £2,200-£2,500
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,600-£5,800
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Glasgow to Picardy?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Glasgow to Picardy
By Road: £2,400-£2,800
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Glasgow to Picardy
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,600-£5,800
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Cardiff to Picardy?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Cardiff to Picardy
By Road: £2,200-£2,500
By Sea: £2,700-£3,300
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Cardiff to Picardy
By Road: £2,300-£2,700
By Sea: £3,400-£4,200
By Air: £4,600-£5,800
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Belfast to Picardy?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Belfast to Picardy
By Road: £2,500-£2,900
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Belfast to Picardy
By Road: £2,800-£3,300
By Sea: £3,200-£3,900
By Air: £4,600-£5,800
Moving to Eastern
France
Alsace, Eastern France
Eastern France is where you will find endless vineyards and historic country villages. It is a region that mixes French and German languages, food, and culture.
It is a region that offers a fantastic place to indulge in outdoor pursuits in truly beautiful surroundings. Just browse through each of the regions below to discover just what this part of the country has to offer people looking to emigrate to France.
In eastern France, on the banks of the Rhine River, next to
Switzerland and Germany, is the region of Alsace.
Strasburg is the economic and cultural capital of Alsace and
after Paris is the most popular tourist city in France. It is home to many of
Europe’s major institutions including the International Institute of Human
Rights.
Alsace has a strong German feel to it having belonged to Germany for many centuries. The food, architecture, and language are all very different from other regions of France.
Alsace architecture is unique, with small, brightly coloured homes, with high, steep roofs.
The cuisine here is very different from other regions of France with sausages, cheeses, and spicy gingerbread featuring heavily on the menu. People come from far and wide to sample the three meat stew, freshwater fish, and almond and raisin sweet bread that is so famous here.
Wine lovers will delight in this region as it is famous for its Reisling and Pinot Gris amongst others. There is even the Alsace Wine Route, 170km of vineyards and wine-producing villages to explore and enjoy.
But fear not beer lovers, Alsace is the main beer-producing region of France and is responsible for over half of the national beer consumption in France.
Alsace is a beautiful and charming region with many picturesque villages and castles. There are some stunning national parks in this region, namely Parc Naturel des Voges du Nord and Parc Nature regional des Ballons des Voges. Louis X1V described Alsace as a beautiful garden and that still holds true today.
With over 10,000 miles of walking trails, endless miles of cycling routes, many opportunities for fishing and water sports, majestic mountains, and mile upon mile of canal routes, this region is a nature lovers’ paradise.
And finally, you will find Alsace is the Christmas capital
of France with some amazing local Christmas markets selling handmade crafts,
decorations, delicious hearty food, and warming beers.
Moving to
Champagne, France
Just 90 km from Paris, in the northeast of France is the
region of Champagne.
Despite its worldwide fame for producing fizzy wine, the Champagne region is sparsely populated and is a region largely ignored by British expats looking to move to France.
The region draws a lot of people from Paris, Holland, and Belgium as second homeowners, but mainly Brits are few and far between.
The Champagne region is agricultural with vast flat plains
in the south but is hillier in the north.
But the Champagne region offers so much more than bubbly
wine to those that take the time to explore and appreciate this region.
You will find gorgeous countryside dotted with quaint and
picturesque villages, woodland walks that are endless, and rock formations that
will take your breath away.
The university city of Reims, just 45 minutes by train from Paris, is the regional capital and is home to one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in France. It is a vibrant city filled with Art Deco architecture and right next door to Reims Cathedral you will find the Palace of Tau, which is where the Holy Ampulla, the anointing oil for every coronation from 1131 to 1774, is displayed.
Further south you will find Langres, a stunningly beautiful
town encased by ramparts dating from the 13th and 17th centuries.
Parts of Langres date back to Roman times and it is easy to get immersed in the
history of this incredibly wonderful small town, which has the benefit of being
ignored by the vast crowds of tourists that many similar towns suffer from.
Take some time to explore this region of France if you want to keep away from the tourists and immerse yourself in the authentic French way of life, whilst at the same time being just a short journey away from stocking up on locally produced champagne from the hundreds of small producers in the villages.
Moving to
Franche-Comte
Franche-Comte in the northeast of France, on the border of Switzerland, is another gem largely ignored by expats and tourists.
And they are missing out on a rural part of France where the beauty of the region is easily comparable to other regions swamped with tourists.
Small, traditional villages are dotted along river valleys, gorges, waterfalls, and lakes are plentiful, and rolling green hills lead to ancient dense forests.
Property prices here are about half the national average and
offer excellent value for money. There are many rural properties just waiting
to be renovated, and Tuye Farmhouses for sale are fairly common.
The town of Vesoul is a good compromise if you want to live
in the countryside but have easy access to all the amenities of a town.
The Territoire de Beflort is worth considering for your new home as it is a bustling town with many work opportunities, but it is also convenient if you have to hop over the border to Switzerland.
Dry and sunny could not be used to describe all of Franche-Comte, but if you love skiing then the Jura mountains offer wonderful winter skiing, and whilst the lower laying areas are a pleasant temperature, the hilly areas are known for experiencing plenty of rain at any time of the year.
But if you seek a tranquil, relaxed lifestyle then
Franche-Comte should definitely be on your short-list.
Moving to
Lorraine, France
Lorraine is another largely overlooked region of France, but
there are plenty of reasons why you might like to consider making this
beautiful region your new home.
Of the less than 1,000 Brits living in Lorraine, one of the draws, amongst many, is the location of Lorraine. Bordering Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, many choose to live in the relatively cheap region of Lorraine and commute into Luxembourg. You can rent a property in Lorraine for half of what it would cost you in Luxembourg.
Lorraine could be said to be at the heart of Europe, with Paris, Brussels, and Frankfurt less than a three-hour car journey away.
The region has a very strong identity and is typically un-French. The local food, architecture, and language all draw from their neighbours and their history of Germanic rule.
Living in Lorraine it is very easy to live in an idyllic
country retreat whilst having easy access to the amenities of a big city close
by.
With generally cold winters and warm and humid summers, the climate suits many who prefer to have seasons.
The terrain here is very picturesque, consisting of hilly, wooded valleys, and is an ideal location for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts.
Nancy is the regional capital of Lorraine and boasts some of
the finest architecture, three outstanding town squares, and a medieval
district.
Culture buffs will adore the numerous art galleries and museums in Nancy as well as the art nouveau buildings, and the Ducal Palace.
The University City of Metz is a very impressive city that is steeped in millennia of history. The Gothic Saint-Stephen Cathedral has the largest expanse of stained glass windows in the world, whilst the Basilica of Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains is the oldest church in France.
With many public parks and gardens, Metz is often referred to as The Green City, and Metz and the surrounding countryside form part of the Lorraine Regional Natural Park.
Metz is the economic heart of Lorraine with a strong
information technology sector and automotive industries.
Moving to
Rhone-Alpes
Chamonix
Rhone-Alpes is one of the largest and most spectacular
regions of France.
Boasting the highest mountain peak in Europe, Mont Blanc, the French Alps draw people from all over the world for the quality of winter sports and the hiking and biking trails in the summer.
But it is not just the wide and varied sporting activities that draw expats to live in Rhone-Alpes. The fabulous Beaujolais and Cotes-du-Rhone wines, the breathtaking scenery, the traditional French villages dotted throughout the valleys, and the vibrant cities of Lyon, Saint-Etienne, and Chambery ensure that many who come here never leave.
Lyon is the capital city of Rhone-Alpes and is just 2 hours south of Paris, 2 hours from the Alps, and within easy distance of the beaches on the Mediterranean coast, Northern Italy, and Switzerland. Lyon has much to offer its residents, Lyon is regarded as the gastronomic capital of France with 14 Michelin-star restaurants and the largest shopping centre in Europe. It is a mix of modern and historic without the frenetic activity of a city like Paris.
Other notable places in Rhone-Alpes that you might like to consider are Annecy, Chambery, Chamonix, Valence, and Grenoble, all regarded as giving their residents what is regarded as the best standard of living in France. Most of these big-name places come at a price but head to the surrounding villages in the valley areas and prices of property become more affordable.
And finally, one secret destination in the Rhone-Alps that is a favourite with the French but that is virtually unheard of by others is the Gorges of Ardeche.
Incredibly beautiful and well-preserved medieval villages, winding country lanes, lavender fields, spectacular scenery, mountains, and gorges await you in this untouched part of the southern Rhones-Alpes region.
There is so much to entice you to move to Rhone-Alpes, and
so much to ensure that you will never want to live anywhere else ever again.
What is the Average Cost of Moving from London to Lorraine?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from London to Lorraine
By Road: £2,200-£2,600
By Sea: £2,700-£3,200
By Air: £3,200-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from London to Lorraine
By Road: £2,400-£2,800
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Glasgow to Lorraine?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Glasgow to Lorraine
By Road: £2,600-£3,100
By Sea: £2,700-£3,200
By Air: £3,200-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Glasgow to Lorraine
By Road: £2,900-£3,500
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Cardiff to Lorraine?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Cardiff to Lorraine
By Road: £2,400-£2,800
By Sea: £2,800-£3,300
By Air: £3,200-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Cardiff to Lorraine
By Road: £2,600-£3,100
By Sea: £3,400-£4,200
By Air: £4,600-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Belfast to Lorraine?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Belfast to Lorraine
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Belfast to Lorraine
Western France offers something for everyone. Whether you want to indulge in gastronomic delights, savour the culture and history, relax and soak up the peace and tranquility, or whether you want to partake in the numerous outdoor leisure activities, then this region will not disappoint.
Would you like to live in a region that offers you the
Pyrenees Mountains, endless pine forests sweeping down to the Atlantic
coastline, thousands of hectares of vineyards, and a region steeped in history?
Many British expats have found just such a region, Aquitaine, in the southwest of France, and it is a favourite with people looking to relocate to France permanently.
Aquitaine is regarded as one of the most desirable regions
in France to live with an outstanding quality of life. Traditional country
living coupled with good infrastructure and fast internet access means that
many people can live in a tranquil and beautiful area whilst still having the
ability to earn a living if they so wish.
Bordeaux is the capital of Aquitaine and is an area that many are drawn to live with culture and history at every turn, village life is quiet and tranquil, the countryside is fabulously scenic, and the crime rate is low. However, it should be noted that Bordeaux is not a cheap place to buy a property.
Biarritz offers world-class surfing and is a tourist
hotspot, but it is a beautiful location with lovely beaches, although with high
property prices as you would expect.
More affordable areas of Aquitaine include northern Pau and
the foothills of the Pyrenees.
The Dordogne represents good value for money and has a big expat community. The superb climate, stunning scenery, low-cost homes, beautiful medieval villages, and laid-back lifestyle ensure that the Dordogne remains firmly on the map of the most desirable regions of France to live in.
However, if you want to immerse yourself in the French way of life away from fellow Brits then consider Gironde, Lot-et Garonne, or the Landes.
Aquitaine is an enchanting region with a near-perfect climate, laid-back lifestyle, good infrastructure, picture-perfect villages, and a big enough expat community to offer you support should your French language skills lack somewhat.
Moving to
Brittany
Picture postcard villages, vibrant cities, medieval towns, a dramatic coastline, and outstanding value-for-money property make Brittany a magnet for those looking to live in France.
There are about 13,000 British nationals in Brittany who live there permanently and a substantial number more who own second homes here.
For those who need an income, this can be important as the expat community provides a lot of tourist services, as well as construction and repair services.
Brittany has always been a favourite with expats and offers a wonderful standard of living, a slower pace of life, and a region of ancient traditions, culture, and gastronomic delights.
Choose from the rugged coastline and beautiful Parc Naturel Regional d’Armorique of Finistere, cotes d’armour offers you value-for-money properties, whilst the Bay of Biscay towns and towns such as Morbihan will offer you endless sunny skies.
Winters are mild and the sun sets around 11pm in summer
giving you a wonderfully long evening to sip your inexpensive, but very good
quality wine watching the glorious sunset.
Outdoor leisure activities are varied and plentiful from walking, cycling, sailing, windsurfing, and surfing, to attending the hundreds of festivals and celebrations that every village holds throughout the year.
Brittany is home to the famous crepe but because of its long
coastline also boasts some of the finest seafood in France, including the
legendary moules-frites. You may be interested to know that they produce cider
here, Breton cider, a wonderfully fruity aperitif.
Brittany is an ideal location for those who do not want to feel that they have moved to a different world. Brittany is reassuringly familiar but different enough that you have a wonderful quality of life, you can choose to immerse yourself in the French way of life, live near a city with all the amenities you could need, you will have the support of a large expat community, and for trips back to the UK, and for friends and family to come to visit you, Brittany is a very convenient region.
Moving to
Pays de la Loire
The Pays de la Loire is a region that offers a lot to people
looking to move to France.
The pleasant climate here lends itself to an outdoor lifestyle with watersports, hiking, cycling, and equestrian sports being especially well-catered for in this region. The National Riding School of France is located in Saumur, and many properties here have large areas of land which are ideal if you wish to have stables.
The summers here are dry and warm, whilst autumn and winter
tend to be mild but can have their fair share of wind and rain too.
The region is not saturated with expats so it offers you the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the French way of life.
The Pays de la Loire has five departments each with its own
culture and history and each can be very different from the next.
You will find long sandy beaches in the coastal departments such as Vendees, heritage-rich regions such as Maine-et-Loire, medieval villages in Mayenne, castles, and rugged landscape in Sarthe, to vibrant cities such as the capital Nantes.
There is a huge variety of homes on offer here from village
cottages needing renovation to huge chateaux. Prices tend to be higher as you
get closer to the city or to the coast.
For exceptional value-for-money homes look towards Mayenne and Sarthe as well as the inland towns and villages. In general, the north of the region and Vendee away from the coast is cheaper.
For those who need to get easy access to the UK or are looking
to start a gite business, Nantes has an airport with direct flights to the UK,
whilst cross-channel ferries dock at Normandy and Brittany for an easy drive
down to Pays de la Loire.
Moving to
Poitou-Charentes
Saint-Martin-de-Re, Poitou-Charentes
Situated on the southwestern coast of France is the region of Poitou-Charentes. This region is very popular with expats, there are around 16,000 British expats living here.
Poitou-Charentes certainly has a lot to offer anyone looking to move to France. From the cosmopolitan and chic towns of Biarritz and La Rochelle to the Pyrenees Mountains, a long and beautiful coast with some traditional and picturesque villages, to Bordeaux, famous for its quality wines.
With a warm and sunny climate in the summer (but nowhere near as extreme as in the south), excellent international transport links, areas of unspoiled beauty, low crime rates, and a huge variety of outdoor pursuits, Poitou-Charentes is a very desirable place to move to.
Property prices can vary widely across the region, with Dux-Sevres and Vienne offering better value for money than the more expensive southern parts of Poitou-Charentes.
The gems of Poitou-Charentes to make your new home include the island of La Flotte en Re, an unspoiled haven of calm and tranquility that is breathtakingly beautiful with a stunning harbour and quaint brightly painted homes.
The university town of Angouleme offers all the amenities you would expect of a large town but with a low crime rate. Winding cobbled streets open out into quaint town squares, there is a beautiful cathedral, and history and culture are at every turn. Property prices tend to be slightly higher in the town centre but there is a good range of rental properties, a vast selection of cafes and restaurants, and plenty of activities to keep you occupied.
The surrounding villages offer even cheaper properties, look around the area of Mansle, Montbrun, Villebois Lavalette, and Chateauneuf-sur-Charentes.
Angles sur Anglin is a must-consider area for your new home. A very authentic, medieval French town, with a ruined castle overlooking this beautiful riverside town, the views both within the town and in the surrounding countryside are truly breathtaking.
Ruffec is another town well worthy of consideration, especially if you need easy access to Paris as there is a TGV station here.
Ruffec is a riverside market town that is steeped in history but with lots going on all year round. Property prices are cheaper here than in the south and there is a good range to choose from. Look to slightly more rural surrounding villages and the choice and value for money are even greater.
What are the Average Property Prices In Western France?
What are the Average Property Prices in Aquitaine France?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Aquitaine is €127,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Aquitaine is €168,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Aquitaine is €196,000
What are the Average Property Prices in Brittany?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Brittany is €85,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Brittany is €120,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Brittany is €150,000
What are the Average Property Prices in Pay de la Loire?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Pay de la Loire is €105,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Pay de la Loire is €135,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Pay de la Loire is €165,000
What are the Average Property Prices in Poitou-Charentes?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Poitou-Charentes is €98,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Poitou-Charentes is €128,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Poitou-Charentes is €146,000
What are the Average Moving Costs from London to Pays de la Loire?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from London to Pays
de la Loire
By Road: £2,300-£2,700
By Sea: £2,700-£3,200
By Air: £3,300-£4,000
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from London to Pays de la Loire
By Road: £2,500-£3,000
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,700-£5,900
What are the Average Moving Costs from Glasgow to Pays de la Loire?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Glasgow to Pays
de la Loire
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £2,700-£3,200
By Air: £3,300-£4,000
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Glasgow to Pays de la Loire
By Road: £3,000-£3,600
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,700-£5,700
What are the Average Moving Costs from Cardiff to Pays de la Loire?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Cardiff to Pays
de la Loire
By Road: £2,300-£2,600
By Sea: £2,800-£3,200
By Air: £3,300-£4,000
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Cardiff to Pays de la Loire
By Road: £2,500-£2,900
By Sea: £3,400-£4,200
By Air: £4,700-£5,900
What are the Average Moving Costs from Belfast to Pays de la Loire?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Belfast to Pays
de la Loire
By Road: £2,800-£3,300
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,300-£4,000
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Belfast to Pays de la Loire
Chateau-de-Chenonceau, Loire Valley, Central France
Whilst you will no doubt be familiar with Paris and the
Loire Valley there are many hidden gems in this region of France. Each
department of central France will offer you something different but pay special
attention to the regions of Auvergne and Limousin which are largely ignored by
both expats and tourists, you may just discover where your new home in France
will be.
Auvergne is in the southern part of central France, a region
that boasts extinct volcanoes, ancient forests, lakes, and rivers.
Although there are great road and rail links to the major
cities of Lyon and Paris, as well as a number of airports, this is a largely
unspoiled region where it is easy to be transported back to a tranquil and
peaceful world of times gone by.
Not being a particularly favourite area with British expats means that property here is cheap and is excellent value for money. The downside of that is that the locals are not used to foreigners and you will need a good level of the French language to get by.
But the old world charm, being able to fully immerse yourself into the French way of life, and the breathtaking scenery mean that Auvergne is worthy of serious consideration for your new home in France.
Rental property is cheap and plentiful here so you can
choose to rent whilst you find your perfect property or whilst your new home is
being renovated.
Property prices vary wildly in each department here so it
pays to shop around even in the same department.
For those on a tight budget look at Montlucon and the
surrounding areas where you can pick up some real bargains whilst still having
a fantastic quality of life.
The Haute Loire department is very beautiful and is steeped in history and culture, whilst property prices here remain very affordable. For those seeking the traditional country way of life, this is a very desirable region to move to.
The Puy de Dome department is an unspoiled, mountainous region that abounds with castles and medieval villages. The region is steeped in history and offers a peaceful way of life that would appeal to many.
The Cantal department is in the southeastern part of Auvergne and the average property price here is less than the regional average, making it very attractive to those moving to France on a budget. As with all departments in this region, prices vary wildly from area to area so take your time to research all your options as there are certainly some major bargains to be found in Cantal.
The quality of life, the stunning countryside, great infrastructure, the abundance of traditional French family homes, and the exceptional value for money property here means that Auvergne is well worth considering relocating to.
Moving to
Burgundy
Burgundy offers a truly wonderful quality of life with endless vineyards, beautiful villages, history and culture, mouthwatering local dishes, and mile upon mile of unspoiled countryside just waiting to be explored.
It is often said that Burgundy offers the best of France but
without the hordes of tourists.
Due to its central location, Burgundy attracts many varied businesses and the region has a healthy economy, but generally, you will need a good understanding of the French language to fully integrate and get local employment.
Despite being so close to Paris, under an hour and a half by
TGV, this is not a region that attracts commuters so property prices remain low
and offer extremely good value for money.
Homes here are wonderfully traditional with flagstone floors, large open fireplaces, clay roof tiles, and vaulted ceiling cellars. Properties for renovation are plentiful and as long as you keep away from areas close to vineyards, you will find some good value, absolutely stunning properties.
Stunningly picturesque towns and cities are plentiful in
Burgundy but here are a few that are well worth checking out of you are
relocating to Burgundy.
Dijon is the old capital of Burgundy and is a city of narrow winding streets leading to numerous museums and many architectural gems. Dijon is one of the largest cities in Burgundy but has every amenity that you could want and if you like city living and being surrounded by history and culture then Dijon is worth considering as your new home.
Chateauneuf-en-Auxois is the quintessential picture postcard town with medieval ramparts and breathtaking views. Dating back to the 14th century, this town is steeped in history and will never cease to amaze and enthrall you.
Macon, between Lyon and Chalon-sur-Saone, is local to the Beaujolais vineyards but is well enough off the beaten track that property prices are very affordable. It is a very beautiful town steeped in history and has some fine museums and galleries to explore.
Beaune is a perfectly preserved medieval city and a mecca for wine lovers with numerous wine cellars and wine merchants. But the city also offers you historic architecture, a laid-back city vibe, and more than enough amazing views to last a lifetime.
Burgundy will tick the boxes of many who want to experience an authentic and unspoiled way of life in France. With affordable homes, good weather, and an endless supply of delicious food and wine, it is a region well worth exploring and adding to your potential home list.
Moving to lle-de-France
Lle-de-France consists mainly of the metropolitan area of Paris and is, therefore, the most populated and wealthiest region in all of France.
Paris consistently ranks in the top 10 most expensive European cities in which to live but offers you an array of historical and cultural delights unrivaled by any other city.
The average apartment in Paris will set you back €400,000 with an average price of €9,300 per square metre. London rents are 43% more expensive than in Paris but the cost of living is lower in London than in Paris.
Work is plentiful but a good understanding of the French
language will put you ahead of the international pack when it comes to securing
work here.
Tourism, communications, IT, research, and Finance all are
booming industries in Paris.
But it is the surrounding villages of Paris where the property prices are lower, commuting is easy, the countryside is beautiful, and there is a more tranquil and laid-back lifestyle to be had.
Hauts-de-Seine as the name would suggest is on the banks of
the Seine, it is a very green department with many parks and forests, but is
also well known as a European Business Centre.
Val-de-Marre is beautiful and tranquil, on the banks of the river Marne, it is an ideal location to go boating, walking, and soaking up the atmosphere in the numerous riverside cafes here.
Essonne department is renowned for its many castles,
beautiful scenery, winding rivers, endless forests, deep valleys, and culture.
Seine-Saint-Denis has a very famous basilica and a huge flea
market that draws crowds from miles around.
Seine-et-Marne is a truly magnificent department and a mecca for those who love outdoor activities. Home of the Fontainebleau Forest and Palace, as well as numerous parks and gardens. There are medieval towns where history and culture are plentiful, but here is also where you will find Disneyland Paris.
Yvelines department is steeped in history with many castles and abbeys, as well as some beautiful countryside to explore. Yvelines is a great place to live if you love the great outdoors and whether you like a leisurely stroll through ancient forests or more energetic day hikes, there is a huge variety and choice in this not to be missed department.
Val-d’Oise department is to the north of Paris and boasts
two regional nature parks. This department has much to offer you if you are
interested in history, there are medieval villages, chateaux, and abbeys. Outdoor
sports enthusiasts flock here for the golf, watersports, walking, cycling, and
horse riding.
So whilst your first thought is that the region of
Lle-de-France is all about Paris, it would be a mistake to ignore some of the
wonderful departments that surround the capital.
Moving to
Limousin
Limousin is regarded as one of the most tranquil and unspoiled regions of France. It is the gateway from the industrial north to the sunny south of France and is where you will find lush green valleys and forests hiding quaint villages, castles, and ancient churches.
This is a relatively undiscovered region of France by British expats and consequently, property here is plentiful and cheap.
Long hot summers lead to cold winters with just enough rain
to keep the countryside a deep lush green.
Historically this is quite a poor region with low wages and
little work, but in recent years the region has sought to reverse this trend.
The region has incentivised businesses to move here and as a result, many new enterprises have sprung up including a science park. This is great news if you want to live in some beautiful, tranquil villages but also need an income.
Limoges, the birthplace of Renoir, is the largest town in this region, famous for producing some outstanding pottery. This is a town steeped in history with some very fine architecture, a number of museums, and some beautiful churches. There are many beautiful parks and gardens to wander around, as well as numerous cafes to relax in. This is a very laid-back town, off the tourist route, and is well worth considering as your new home if you want to have the amenities of living in a town but want to be surrounded by beautiful buildings and countryside.
Moving to
the Loire Valley
Conflans-sur-Anille
The Loire Valley is, for many, the perfect region of France
to relocate to.
Picture postcard villages steeped in history, endless vineyards and orchards, gastronomic delights, and some of the best wines in France are all to be found in the Loire Valley.
The Loire Valley is crammed full of enchanting castles and chateaux, centuries-old and so picturesque it is as if they are taken straight from every fairytale illustration you have ever seen.
Some of the best-preserved Renaissance gardens are to be found in the Loire Valley, which is why this region is referred to as the garden of France. Each year in June is the Rendez-vous aux Jardin, a garden festival, when some of the finest gardens in the Loire Valley are opened to the public, an event not to be missed.
Being such a rural region, locally produced food here is
outstanding and there are many local delicacies. Fouee, a wood-fired loaf is
absolutely delicious, the local pate is rich, the fish is fresh and succulent,
whilst the local cheeses will have you addicted in no time.
And of course, no guide to the Loire Valley would be complete without mentioning the huge variety and the outstanding quality of the wines of this region. It is not worth singling out any particular wines as they all have their own qualities that you will no doubt want to sample for yourself.
The Loire Valley also has some notable cities that are very
appealing if you prefer to live in a sophisticated city with lots of amenities.
Angers is not a large town but it is full of chic cafes, sublime eateries, museums, ancient monuments, and even a castle. What better way to spend lazy days than at the riverside quay with a glass of very fine wine, and a selection of locally produced food, all with the backdrop of a castle with 17 towers?
Orleans was once the second most important city in France and has a long and rich history, being host to such historical legends as Julias Ceasar and Joan of Arc. Following major regeneration and investment, the city is now vibrant and chic with plenty to discover and explore. The riverside teems with cafes and restaurants, there are monuments and buildings of historical importance at every turn, cobbled streets that lead to enchanting squares, and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.
And beneath your feet you will find a 16th-century moat, buried under the city as it has been built up over the centuries. Glass viewing panels reveal what lies beneath, including an ancient bridge that once connected the city walls, there are secret crypts, and even a hidden chapel.
Blois is the capital of the department of Loire-et-Cher and was favoured for centuries by the Kings of France as their home. The old kings’ chateau and the cathedral dominate this enchanting city of ancient timber-framed buildings and cobbled streets. Amongst the many shops and cafes here you will find that chocolate plays a big part in life in Blois, it was here in 1847 that Auguste Poulain opened his chocolate shop and still today you can sample his chocolate and some very fine pastries here.
Just under an hour and a half from Paris, local rail and road networks make Blois very accessible.
Tours is certainly a place in the Loire Valley that is worth
a mention. With absolutely stunning countryside dotted with numerous chateaux
and endless vineyards, this city has attracted people to the banks of the Loire
for centuries. Families will be interested to know that the city has some very
fine schools and a very famous university.
Half-timbered houses, a beautiful cathedral, museums, and art galleries add to the culture of this small city. Narrow winding paths lead to numerous chic cafes, and the Place Plumereau has been reported as the finest square in all of France. Boutiques and independent stores abound but there are still a good number of modern stores to be found here.
The Loire Valley was probably on your shortlist of regions
to make your home in France and there are obviously many great reasons to make
it so.
What are the Average Property Prices in Central France?
What is the Average Cost of Property in Auvergne?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Auvergne is €71,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Auvergne is €110,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Auvergne is €135,000
What is the Average Property Cost in Burgundy?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Burgundy is €71,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Burgundy is €105,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Burgundy is €137,500
What is the Average Property Cost in Limousin?
The average cost of a 2-bedroom home in Limousin is €63,000
The average cost of a 3-bedroom home in Limousin is €100,000
The average cost of a 4-bedroom home in Limousin is €125,000
What are the Average Moving Costs from London to Dijon?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from London to Dijon
By Road: £2,300-£2,600
By Sea: £2,800-£3,300
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from London to Dijon
By Road: £2,500-£2,900
By Sea: £3,500-£4,200
By Air: £4,700-£5,900
What are the Average Moving Costs from Glasgow to Dijon?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Glasgow to Dijon
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £2,800-£3,300
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Glasgow to Dijon
By Road: £3,000-£3,600
By Sea: £3,400-£4,200
By Air: £4,700-£5,900
What are the Average Moving Costs from Cardiff to Dijon?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Cardiff to Dijon
By Road: £2,400-£2,800
By Sea: £2,900-£3,500
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Cardiff to Dijon
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £2,600-£3,400
By Air: £4,700-£5,900
What are the Average Moving Costs from Belfast to Dijon?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Belfast to Dijon
By Road: £2,700-£3,300
By Sea: £2,800-£3,300
By Air: £3,200-£3,900
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Belfast to Dijon
Going to live in the south of France, the playground of the
rich and famous is a fantasy for most, but away from the glitz and glamour you
will find some stunning countryside, peace and tranquility, and property at
prices that may be surprisingly affordable. Your dream of living in the south
of France may be more attainable than you think.
Endless hot summer days, long sandy beaches, the glistening blue sea, and majestic mountains. The French Riviera offers a quality of life that many aspire to.
But in this guide to the French Riviera, we will ignore the big-name destinations such as Monaco, Cannes, St Tropez, Nice, and Antibes and go and explore the lesser-known gems of this paradise region of France.
The cost of living on the French Riviera is high but not as high as Paris, and head inland away from the tourist hot spots and there are some bargains to be had.
Vence is a typically French market town that is mainly overlooked by the hordes of tourists. This medieval village has winding cobbled streets opening out onto quaint village squares where the locals enjoy alfresco dining under clear blue skies.
Valbonne is a beautifully restored and maintained historic village. It is stunningly picturesque with pastel-coloured houses lining cobbled streets, it is tranquil and peaceful being mostly ignored by the tourists to the Riviera. Expats are drawn not only by its scenic beauty but by the European Technology Park of Sophia Antipolis where many electronics and computing companies are based and lots of internationals find work there. This really is one delightful village that offers you an outstanding quality of life in ancient and visually stunning surroundings.
Mougins is just half an hour from Cannes but you will find
none of the tackiness of the Riviera hotspots here. This is a village that
draws artists and is famous for its dozens of intimate art galleries. When the
few tourists who venture here do slip away at the end of the day you will be
left to marvel at the beautiful Alps to one side and the Mediterranean on the
other side.
Villefranche is less than half an hour from Nice but is a world apart. Villefranche is a former fishing village with a beautiful harbor, a collection of pastel-coloured cottages that ring the harbour, a tranquil and truly picture postcard-perfect village that is often overlooked by the mass of tourists.
Menton is on the Italian border and just 20 minutes from Monte Carlo. This is a small town full of cobbled streets, boutiques, and independent shops, and whilst it does attract tourists, there is none of the glitz that you associate with the French Riveria. The area is famous for its lemons and oranges, the beautiful beach, and the historic old port.
Moving to
Languedoc-Roussillon
Languedoc-Roussillon is bordered by Spain and Andorra, it is a region with more vineyards than Bordeaux, has wonderful countryside, is steeped in history, and has a strong identity.
The climate here gives you long hot summers, spring and autumn are delightfully warm, whilst the winters are mild. Languedoc is the driest region of France having little annual rainfall.
Languedoc offers you a wonderful outdoor lifestyle combining
lazy days on the beach with days hiking in the mountains or any number of
watersports along the beautiful coast.
Montpellier is the capital city of Languedoc and is the 8th largest city in France. Being a university city there is a young population and plenty of bars and restaurants for them to enjoy. But Montpellier is not just for the energetic and lively, it has numerous art galleries and museums, a calendar full of cultural events, a charming old town, and of course a beach.
Uzes is a very pretty town with narrow winding lanes leading to impressive squares ringed by restaurants and cafes. The architecture here is beautiful and adds to the laid-back, tranquil feel that this town oozes. Every Saturday you will find the largest and best street market in all of Languedoc selling local produce and crafts.
Nimes was on the main chariot route from Rome to Spain during Roman times, but you may be surprised to find such a wealth of Roman architecture here. The Maison Carree is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world, whilst there is also an Amphitheatre and the Temple of Diana.
Carcassonne is a 14th-century haven of historic delights, with a spectacular castle whose walls encase this beautiful city. The region is host to many very beautiful and tranquil villages.
Carcassonne has a lake with its own beach although you are only about 45 minutes from the beaches at Narbonne, and if you want to go skiing then Andorra is only a couple of hours away.
Languedoc has much to offer people looking to relocate to the south of France with a diverse choice of areas to choose from, each unique and special in its own way.
Moving to
Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur
At the centre of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is what is probably one of the most desirable regions of France, one that captures the essence of French life, one that many expats dream of retiring to, Provence. Nowhere catches the imagination quite like this region. Endless blue skies, picture-perfect medieval villages, where orange blossom fills the air, where the Mediterranean Sea glistens in unbroken sunshine and food and wine that is unrivaled.
The Cote d’Azur attracts the rich and famous but is regarded as one of the foremost places in France to live with a very high standard of living, great infrastructure, low pollution, and beautiful scenery.
Property here is notoriously expensive but for better value
homes look away from the coast and glitzy cities. Whilst property in the south
of France will never be described as cheap, you will definitely get more home
for your money the further inland you go.
But if your budget stretches to it then the Cote d’Azur will give you a quality of life that many can only dream of, the wonderful weather, the glitz and glamour, the traditional villages, history, culture, stunning beaches, truly a region of dreams come true.
Moving to
Midi-Pyrenees
Montauban, Midi-Pyrenees
People looking for a laid-back lifestyle in a truly beautiful setting are attracted to living in the Midi-Pyrenees. It is a very popular region of France with expats, and for good reason.
Midi-Pyrenees is the largest region of France, almost
equally the size of Switzerland and Luxembourg combined, with eight
departments, each very different from the next but every one with many
attributes that would attract you to make them your home.
To the west or east, you can easily reach sun-kissed sandy beaches in just a few hours, and the ski resorts of the south are just a short way away.
The climate here can be overpowering for some. There is no
sea breeze to cool the baking summer sun although the spring and autumn are
regarded as near perfect being neither too hot nor cold. Winters are generally
mild.
Although the region is sparsely populated you will find the
locals welcoming and friendly.
Property prices are as varied as the departments and even within departments prices can be very different, so shop around to find the place that suits your budget and way of life carefully.
Generally the higher up the mountains you go the cheaper the property becomes.
Toulouse is the major centre of the region, and with a significant percentage of the population living here, property prices are on the high side although still offer excellent value for money.
Property styles also vary between each department. You may find pebble houses with pebbled walls either inside, outside, or both, but be wary of buying such a property as the renovation can be expensive. However, as is popular with many expats, there is a good selection of barns and farmhouses ripe for renovation, and the more rural they are, the bigger the bargains are to be had.
Compared with most of southern France, the Midi-Pyrenees
offers excellent value for money whilst still offering you amazing weather and
a fantastic quality of life.
What are the Average Property Prices in Southern France?
What is the Average Cost of Property in Languedoc-Roussillon?
The average price of a 2-bedroom home in Languedoc-Roussillon is €130,000
The average price of a 3-bedroom home in Languedoc-Roussillon is €180,000
The average price of a 4-bedroom home in Languedoc-Roussillon is €210,700
What is the Average Cost of Property in Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur?
The average price of a 2-bedroom home in Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is €220,000
The average price of a 3-bedroom home in Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is €269,000
The average price of a 4-bedroom home in Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is €310,000
What is the Average Cost of Property in Midi-Pyrenees France?
The average price of a 2-bedroom home in Midi-Pyrenees is €97,000
The average price of a 3-bedroom home in Midi-Pyrenees is €156,300
The average price of a 4-bedroom home in Midi-Pyrenees is €180,000
What is the Average Cost of Moving from London to Marseille?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from London to Marseille
By Road: £2,600-£3,000
By Sea: £2,500-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from London to Marseille
By Road: £2,900-£3,400
By Sea: £3,100-£3,800
By Air: £4,500-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Glasgow to Marseille?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Glasgow to Marseille
By Road: £3,000-£3,600
By Sea: £2,500-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Glasgow to Marseille
By Road: £3,400-£4,100
By Sea: £3,100-£3,800
By Air: £4,500-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Cardiff to Marseille?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Cardiff to Marseille
By Road: £2,700-£3,200
By Sea: £2,600-£3,100
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Cardiff to Marseille
By Road: £3,100-£3,700
By Sea: £3,300-£4,000
By Air: £4,500-£5,700
What is the Average Cost of Moving from Belfast to Marseille?
The average cost of moving a 1 bedroom home from Belfast to Marseille
By Road: £3,000-£3,700
By Sea: £2,500-£3,000
By Air: £3,100-£3,800
The average cost of moving a 3-bedroom home from Belfast to Marseille
We hope you have found this guide to moving to France useful and that it has ignited a desire for a better way of life.
And once you have made that decision to move to France all
that remains now is to organise your home move.
There are many useful guides to moving internationally in our home moving blog which we hope you will take the time to read. They will make your home move easier and cheaper, and help you avoid many of the pitfalls of moving abroad.
The moving costs we have provided above are averages based on moving only a few items of furniture and a few boxes. To get a more accurate home moving cost estimate that is tailored to your specific requirements be sure to get your free quote from up to 4 prevetted international removal companies.
Good luck with your search for a new home in France and we
hope you find the quality of life that you seek.
*At RemovalReviews we will connect you with a professional moving company. Please note that we may not be affiliated with
and you may be speaking with another licensed provider.
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