Top 10 Destinations in France to Invest in Real Estate
France is a popular destination for property investors. But with so many options, where are the best places to buy real estate in France? Here are our top 10 picks based on rental yields, capital growth, affordability, and lifestyle.
1. Toulouse
Egypt, Real Estate for sale
Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France by population and the center of the European aerospace industry. It has a vibrant and diverse culture, with a large student population and a strong tech sector. Property prices in Toulouse are relatively reasonable, and rental yields are high, averaging around 8%. Toulouse is also well-connected by transport links and close to the Pyrénées mountains for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Nantes
Nantes is the capital of the Loire-Atlantiques department and a former industrial powerhouse. It has reinvented itself as a dynamic and creative city with a thriving tech start-up scene, a rich cultural heritage, and a green and sustainable vision. Nantes is less than two hours from Paris by direct train and close to the Atlantic coast. Property prices in Nantes have increased by 6.3% in the last year, indicating a strong demand and potential for capital growth.
3. Lille
Cairo, Real Estate for sale
Lille is often billed as France’s most underrated city, and it is finally getting some well-deserved recognition. Lille is close to the Belgian border and has unique and charming architecture influenced by Flemish and Spanish styles. Lille is also a significant business and academic hub, with France’s third-largest business district and a large student population. Property prices in Lille are still affordable, and rental yields are high, averaging around 7.6%.
4. Lyon
Lyon is France’s third-largest city and a gastronomic and cultural capital. It is renowned for its historical and architectural landmarks, lively and diverse neighborhoods, and proximity to the Alps and the Mediterranean. Lyon is also a booming economic center, with a strong presence in the biotechnology, digital, and tourism sectors. Property prices in Lyon are expensive but continue to rise, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term appreciation.
5. Bordeaux
Hurghada, Real Estate for sale
Bordeaux is one of France’s most famous and prestigious cities thanks to its world-class wine industry, elegant and historic architecture, and vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Bordeaux is also a modern and innovative city, with a high-speed train connection to Paris, a tram network, and a pedestrian and bike-friendly layout. Property prices in Bordeaux are high, but so is the demand, especially from foreign buyers and tourists.
6. Montpellier
Montpellier is the fastest-growing city in France and one of the most attractive destinations in the south. It has a sunny and mild climate, a stunning coastline, and a rich and diverse culture. Montpellier is also a young and dynamic city with a large student population and a flourishing tech sector. Property prices in Montpellier are moderate, and rental yields are decent, averaging around 5.5%.
7. Rennes
Red Sea, Real Estate for sale
Rennes is Brittany’s capital, with a strong identity and character. It has a beautiful historic center, a lively and colorful nightlife, and a thriving artistic and musical scene. Rennes is also a major educational and research center with a large student population and a growing tech sector. Property prices in Rennes are reasonable, and rental yields are high, averaging around 8.2%.
8. Angers
Angers is the capital of the Maine-et-Loire department and a city with a rich history and heritage. It has a stunning medieval castle, a magnificent cathedral, and a renowned tapestry museum. Angers is also a green and eco-friendly city with a large park, a botanical garden, and a tram network. Property prices in Angers are low, and rental yields are high, averaging around 6.2%.
9. Le Havre
France, Real Estate for sale
Le Havre is a port city in Normandy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has unique and modern architecture, designed by Auguste Perret after the Second World War. Le Havre is also a cultural and artistic center, with a museum dedicated to impressionist painter Claude Monet and a contemporary art biennale. Property prices in Le Havre are low, and rental yields are high, averaging around 7.6%.
10. Nancy
Nancy is the former capital of the Lorraine region and a city with a splendid and elegant style. It has a magnificent 18th-century square, a stunning opera house, and a museum devoted to art nouveau. Nancy is also a vibrant and dynamic city with a large student population and a robust industrial sector. Property prices in Nancy are low, and rental yields are high, averaging around 6%.