France, often associated with high cost of living, is also home to some hidden gems where affordability meets charm. If you’re dreaming of the French lifestyle without breaking the bank, here are the top three most affordable regions in France for 2023. From the cost if living to property prices, we’ve got you covered.
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Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Nouvelle Aquitaine, the largest region in France, is a captivating blend of rich history and stunning landscapes. This is one of the most affordable regions in France. This vast region stretches from the Pyrenees Mountains in the south to the Charente-Maritime coastline in the west. Bordeaux, the region’s capital, is renowned for its world-class wine production and elegant architecture. It’s a city where historic charm meets a thriving urban environment.
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Cost of living
Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a comfortable life at a fraction of the cost of major metropolitan areas. Groceries, dining out and entertainment are all budget friendly.
In Bordeaux, we can find the below average living costs:
- One pint: £4.3
- Three-course meal at a restaurant for two: £53
- Monthly public transport pass: £36
Property prices
You can find charming country homes for as low as 100,000 €. Even in cities like Bordeaux where property prices are slightly higher, you can find affordable apartment at 150,000 €. The average meter square price in the region is 2,990 €. But if you exclude Bordeaux, the average price drops to 1,600 €.
When it comes to rent, you can find the below average monthly rent:
- Unfurnished apartment: 567 € per month
- Unfurnished house: 808 € per month
Job market
With a diverse economy, including agriculture, tourism and aerospace, job opportunities abound. Major cities like Bordeaux are hubs of industry. The region’s unemployment rate is below the national average.
What to do and see
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Explore the stunning Dordogne Valley, renowned for its medieval villages and prehistoric sites. Enjoy the region’s world-class wines and cuisine, including Bordeaux wines and the delightful seafood from the Atlantic coast.
Accessibility to the UK
Bordeaux and La Rochelle airports offer direct flights to major UK cities, making visits home or hosting family a breeze.
Fun Fact: Nouvelle-Aquitaine is home to the longest beach in Europe, the Côte d’Argent, stretching over 200 km. It’s a paradise for surfers and beach lovers.
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Occitanie
Occitanie, nestled in the sunny south of France, boasts a mediterranean climate, picturesque villages, and a relaxed pace of life. This region stretches from the Pyrenees to the Camargue and from the Spanish border to the edge of the Massif Central. Montpellier, a vibrant city with a historic centre and modern flair, serves as the capital of Occitanie.
Cost of living
Occitanie’s sunshine comes with a friendly price tag, offering great value for your money.
In Toulouse, we can find the below average living costs:
- One pint: £4.3
- Three-course meal at a restaurant for two: £51
- Monthly public transport pass: £46
Property prices
Rural properties in charming villages can be found for under 100,000 €, while large cities like Montpellier provide affordable urban living.. Expect to find apartments and houses withing the 150,000 € to 200,000 € range. The average meter square price in the region is 2,388 €. But if you go into rural parts of the region, the average price drops to 1,115 €.
When it comes to rent, you can find the below average monthly rent:
- Unfurnished apartment: 569 € per month
- Unfurnished house: 769 € per month
Job market
The region’s diverse economy includes agriculture, tourism and the aerospace industry, Toulouse is known for its job opportunities, especially in the aerospace sector. Montpellier and Nîmes also have growing job markets.
What to do and see
Occitanie offers a diverse range of experiences. Explore the historic town of Carcassonne, with its stunning medieval fortress. Savour the world-famous cassoulet, a hearty local dish. And with the Mediterranean sea at your doorstep, you can enjoy beautiful beaches and water sports.
Accessibility to the UK
Toulouse and Montpellier airports offer convenient flights to the UK, ideal for maintaining connections.
Fun Fact: Occitanie is where the first recorded game of rugby was played in 1872, in the town of Béziers.
> You might be interested in this article: Why are French houses so cheap?
Hauts-de-France
Located in the northern part of France, Hauts-de-France is a region known for its historical significance and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a land where rich heritage meets affordability. Lille, a bustling city with a flemish influence, serves as the capital of Hauts-de-France.
Cost of living
Hauts-de-France allows you to enjoy both city and countryside living without straining your budget.
In Lille, we can find the below average living costs:
- One pint: £4.3
- Three-course meal at a restaurant for two: £47
- Monthly public transport pass: £51
Property prices
You can find townhouses and apartments in cities like Lille at competitive prices. Rural homes offer great value for money, with prices ranging from 100,000 € to 200,000 € for spacious properties. The average meter square price in the region is 2,179 €. But if you go into rural parts of the region, the average price drops to 1,400 €.
When it comes to rent, you can find the below average monthly rent:
- Unfurnished apartment: 602 € per month
- Unfurnished house: 785 € per month
Job market
The region’s economy includes manufacturing, logistics and agriculture. Lille, a major city, provides ample job opportunities, especially in fields like transportation and healthcare. The region’s strategic location, near the border of Belgium and the UK, also makes it attractive for international trade.
What to do and see
Discover the charming town of Amiens, known for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the historic battlefields of World War I, including the Somme battlefields. Hauts-de-France is also known for its delicious Maroilles cheese, with a distinctive aroma that’s not for the faint-hearted.
Accessibility to the UK
Eurostar services connect Lille to London in just over an hour, making it a convenient gateway to the UK. The region’s proximity to the Channel Tunnel also facilitate travel to and from the UK.
Fun Fact: Lille hosts one of Europe’s largest flea markets, the Braderie de Lille, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Useful resources
Nouvelle-Aquitaine Tourism: Explore the official tourism website for Nouvelle-Aquitaine to discover more about region’s attractions, events and lifestyle.
Occitanie Tourism: Plan your visit to Occitanie with this official tourism website, offering insights into the region’s culture, cuisine and activities.
Hauts-de-France Regional Council: Learn about Hauts-de-France’s government initiatives, business opportunities and local services on the official regional website.
Final notes
France offers more than just the allure of Paris. Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie and Hauts-de-France are some of the most affordable regions in France. Whether you’re seeking picturesque countryside living or urban adventures, these regions have something for everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on an affordable French escapade in 2023!
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