If you’re thinking of moving to France, you may already have some specific ideas about where you would like to be. But there are so many places to choose from, all with their own unique qualities that it can be difficult to decide on a new French home that meets your requirements.
The best place to live in France is a very individual decision, based on personal circumstances and ways of life. If you are a student, you may be likely to be looking for different things from your time in France to a family with young children. So we have compiled all of the best places to live in France into one useful guide for expats, families and students.
As an expat, moving to any country for any period of time can be daunting. France is often a popular choice thanks to its beautiful scenery, relaxed lifestyle and inviting culture, which all mean that it tends to appeal to people of all ages and stages of life.
There is already a large British community in Dordogne and it is even nicknamed ‘Little England’ as a result. The region is home to some of France’s most picturesque villages and, despite being rural, has access to Fench airports including Bordeaux.
Property prices are very reasonable in Dordogne - average property prices are around €125,000.
The country’s capital is, of course, a popular option for expats. Due to the size of the city, there is less of an expat community feel but there are also groups and meetups to join if you’re looking to meet other expats. It’s one of the more expensive places to live but provides lots of career opportunities, social events, nightlife and the foodie culture that France is known and loved for.
Brittany provides the comfort of being closer to home, just with warmer weather and a more relaxed way of life! Houses are cheaper than the UK average with homes available at around €121,000.
A key priority when moving abroad as a family - particularly with young children - is safety. Eymet is a small town in South West France with a virtually non-existent crime rate.
There are around 800 Brits living in Eymet so it is less a place thriving with French culture, but more a homely haven for British families.
A larger town with more of Spanish influence, and lots of opportunities for family activities including horse riding, rugby, biking and fishing.
House prices in Saint Gaudens are cheaper than the national average which makes it a great place for growing families, and there are many career opportunities for parents.
Lyon is a particularly good option for working parents, with many career opportunities including banking, medicine, chemistry and technology.
In addition to the advanced career opportunities, Lyon also boasts an exciting Paris-like culture with museums, galleries and magnificent architecture to be enjoyed in leisure time, and excellent educational institutions for children.
One of France’s largest cities, Montpellier is home to over 60,000 students and the University of Montpellier is reputable as one of the most innovative educational institutions in the country. The university has some impressive credentials as Reuters’ most innovative Fench university and has achieved a number of notable rankings from global publications. This is definitely one of the best places to live in France as a student, with a buzzing student population.
Paris is home to some of the world’s best university and it’s no surprise that it is commonly renowned as one of the best cities for students, and is the dream destination for student across the globe.
Despite a higher cost of living in comparison to other French cities or towns, Paris provides endless entertainment in museums, galleries, architecture and world-renowned foodie spots which all make Paris the much-loved, buzzing city that is so appealing. If you're a struggling French speaker, you'll find it much easier to move to Paris compared to a more rural- entirely French-speaking town or village.
Do you think we’ve covered the best places to live in france? If you’re looking to move to France, Anglo French Removals can help. From packing services to france to complete international removals services or simple man with vans to France. Did you know we also offer removals to Switzerland? If you think that we can help you, get in touch with us today and discuss your requirements.
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Just a quick message to say thanks for the safe delivery of my furniture from Charente, France to London - the coordination was great as was the care, I really appreciated it, especially the safe delivery of the grandfather clock and rocking horse, which were my grandmother's, and I was worried about! So - a big thank you - I will happily recommend you.
Vicky Edwards, Charente
Dear Mark
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