Where to Live in France: The Best Regions for British Expats, Couples, Retirees & Families

France continues to be a popular destination for British retirees seeking warm weather, affordable living outside major cities, excellent healthcare, and a slower pace of life. Whether drawn to the coastline, the countryside, or charming sun-soaked towns, several regions consistently stand out as favourites among UK expat retirees.

Provence and the Côte d’Azur, including cities like Nice, Antibes, and Menton, remain perhaps the most popular retirement areas in France. British expats are drawn to the region’s warm Mediterranean climate, high-quality healthcare, convenient and short flights to the UK, and vibrant social and cultural scene. The main drawback is cost, as property, groceries, and dining out tend to be higher than in other regions. For many retirees, however, the lifestyle more than makes up for the extra expense.

For those seeking a slower pace and picturesque countryside, Dordogne and the wider Nouvelle-Aquitaine region have long been popular. This area offers beautiful villages and market towns, a strong sense of community, affordable homes with ample land, and outstanding local food and wine. It is quieter in the winter and more rural than other parts of France, which many retirees find appealing for a relaxed, country lifestyle.

Occitanie, including places such as Hérault, Aude, and Tarn, provides a sunny, affordable option for retirees looking to balance value with lifestyle. The region boasts warm summers, lower property prices, vineyards, beaches, and hilltop villages, along with good access to healthcare. Less touristy and more authentically French than Provence, it appeals to retirees who want to immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying the benefits of a pleasant climate and reasonable living costs.

British expats moving to France for work often prioritise job markets, transport links, international schools, and expat-friendly communities when choosing where to settle down.

Paris

France’s largest city is not only the nation’s economic and cultural hub but also one of the most vibrant international business centres in Europe. It’s particularly ideal for expats working in tech, finance, consulting, fashion, media, and law. Expats in Paris enjoy strong career opportunities, excellent international schools for their children, fast and efficient transport links across the city and beyond, and unparalleled access to world-class museums, restaurants, and cultural experiences. The main trade-offs are the high cost of rent, limited living space, and the fast pace of life. However, for those seeking career growth and the excitement of big-city living, Paris remains unmatched.

Lyon

Often preferred by British expats who want the benefits of a major city without the constant hustle of Paris, Lyon combines economic vibrancy with a more relaxed lifestyle. The city boasts a strong and diverse economy, with thriving sectors in tech, pharmaceuticals, medical research, and banking. Expats also benefit from some of France’s best international schools and a cost of living that is noticeably lower than in Paris. The main challenge is securing a good rental property, as demand is high in the city, so preparing in advance, or searching for local areas near Lyon is a must.

Toulouse

Toulouse has become a top destination for expats in aerospace, engineering, and technology, thanks to its booming industries. The city offers a warm climate, an international community, excellent transport connections, and more affordable housing compared with Paris or Lyon. While English is spoken less here than in other areas, expats often find it helpful to take basic language lessons to adjust smoothly. Its combination of professional opportunity, livability, and affordability makes Toulouse a strong contender for British expats.

British families moving to France often prioritise schools, green spaces, safety, affordability, and strong community life. Several cities stand out as ideal for families seeking a balance of comfort, opportunity, and quality of life.

Nantes
Nantes consistently ranks among the most family-friendly cities in France. British families are drawn to its outstanding schools, affordable housing options, abundant parks and playgrounds, and welcoming neighbourhoods. While winters can be wet, the city’s overall quality of life, cultural activities, and family-oriented amenities make it a top choice for expats looking for a safe and vibrant environment for their children.

Rennes
Rennes offers a manageable and friendly city atmosphere, along with excellent schooling opportunities. It is known for its safe, family-oriented neighbourhoods, high-quality public schools, and lower cost of living compared with many other French cities. Rennes also benefits from quick transport connections to Paris, making it an attractive option for families who want the convenience of city life without the stress and congestion of a central area.

Aix-en-Provence
For families drawn to Mediterranean living, Aix-en-Provence combines sunny weather, charm, and a rich cultural environment. Expats value its great international schools, pedestrian-friendly town centre, and strong sense of community. While housing tends to be more expensive than in northern or western cities, many families find that the lifestyle, climate, and sense of community make the investment worthwhile.