Think France Is Too Expensive? $2K a Month Let's you Live in These French Towns (And They Are Gorgeous)

If your retirement plan includes moving to France, these 12 towns are a great relocation budget option. Live the expat lifestyle for less in the French countryside.

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If you’ve been dreaming about moving to France and living the French life but are worried about affordability, keep reading.

France is not only an affordable place to live but also has great healthcare and quality of life. How do I know? I’m an Expat living in France and made the move over seven years ago.

I’m more relaxed, less stressed and don’t work all day every day like I used to. Plus, I have more money in my pocket at the end of each month than I did before I moved to France.

A promotional graphic for a lifestyle quiz about living in France, featuring a polaroid-style photo of a woman smiling and working on her laptop outdoors. The image is framed against a green patterned background with playful travel motifs like sunglasses, a passport, and a location pin, enhancing the French theme. The text invites the viewer to daydream about a fabulous French lifestyle and take a quiz to discover which region of South West France suits their personality, pastimes, and passions. The name "Kylie" and a sunflower icon add a personal touch to the design, suggesting a connection to the content and the allure of rural French living.

Why Is France Such An Affordable Country To Move To?

According to the website Expatistan, the cost of living in France is 17% cheaper than in both the United States and the UK, and it is also cheaper than in 47% of the countries in Western Europe.

And the stats don’t lie. But you don’t need to take my word for it. American Expat, Jo, moved to France in 2022 and has never looked back. But like many Americans, agrees that part of it has to do with life expectancy, which is way higher than the US.

However, knowing which places to choose that fit within your monthly budget can be a little overwhelming. Below you’ll find a curated list of some of the cheapest, but also beautiful places to live in France on less than $2,000 per month.

A scenic view of a narrow street in France lined with historic buildings, with a tall church steeple in the background.

12 Affordable Places In France You Can Live For Less

I would like to preface this by saying France is a big country, and there are many gorgeous cities and towns where you can live cheaply. This list is a selection of both well known and hidden gems to give you a glimpse into just what’s possible, but it’s not an exhaustive list by any means.

No 1 – The Charente Region

A field of sunflowers in the French countryside one of the things to do in Charente France

I’m starting off with a region rather than a city or town because I live in the Charente, in southwest France, so have first hand experience of the cost of living. I can hand on heart say that most places in the Charente will allow you to live within a budget of $2,000.

Maybe not Angouleme, as it’s the biggest city in the Charente, but it wouldn’t be far off.

The Charente is next door to the Dordogne and just as beautiful with rolling hills and fields of sunflowers in the summer.

The community in the smaller villages like Verteuil with its fairytale chateau and Aubeterre with its underground church, are stunning examples of French history.

For us, we can go out and have a Menu de Jour in our local restaurant which will include three courses and a glass of wine for €16. What’s not to love.

Plus, there are many great events throughout the year to enjoy and lots of groups to join if you want to be sociable.

Monthly Cost: Around €1,300 ($1,400)

No 2 – Poitiers

Half-timbered buildings line a street, displaying geometric timber patterns and modern shopfronts.

Poitiers is one of my favourite cities in the Aquitaine region, not only because it’s the home city of Eleanor of Aquitaine who famously married a French King and an English King in the 12th century, but the architecture is stunning too.

There are half-timbered buildings everywhere you look and you also have the Palais de Justice at the bottom end of town. The former palace of the Dukes of Aquitaine, it now serves as the courthouse, showcasing mediaeval architecture.

There is a university in the centre, which was established in 1431 and is one of the oldest universities in Europe but it doesn’t feel like a university town. It still has that quaint feel to it most cities don’t have.

Monthly Cost: €1,200-€1,400 ($1,300-$1,500)

No 3 – Carcassonne

Aerial view of Carcassonne Cathedral from a high vantage point, focusing on the elaborate rose window and Gothic spire, with terracotta rooftops and a distant landscape visible under a clear blue sky.

This mediaeval walled city got thrust into the limelight by Kate Mosse, the author of the Languedoc trilogy. I read the books and loved them and instantly fell in love with Carcassonne.

She really brings the Comtal and his family to life at a time when the terrifying Simon de Montfort reigned supreme in the region and was burning heretics for fun.

The Basilica church in the upper city is stunning with a fascinating story behind it as it was demoted from being a cathedral.

I’ve been a few times now and it never fails to disappoint. Granted you can’t live in the old cité because there are only a total of fifty people living there. However, down in the Bastide there are plenty of affordable options plus in the surrounding towns and villages.

Wine in this region is insanely good but very cheap, so if you love your wine this could be a great option for you.

Monthly Cost: €1,500-€1,700 ($1,620-$1,835)

No 4 – Toulouse

A serene sunset over the River Garonne in Toulouse, with the soft pink sky reflecting on the water. In the foreground, the Pont Saint-Pierre bridge connects to the historical La Grave Hospital, featuring its iconic dome. The tranquil scene is completed with the silhouette of a Ferris wheel on the left, evoking Toulouse's nickname as 'Space City' (Cité de l'Espace).

Toulouse, known as “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City) due to its distinctive terracotta brick architecture, offers an excellent quality of life at a lower cost compared to other major French cities.

The local markets, such as Marché Victor Hugo, are a great place to shop and then, of course, there is the history. Not far from Carcassonne, Toulouse was also heavily involved in the Albigensian Crusade in the 13th century.

And if you love a good church, then the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of the largest remaining Romanesque buildings in Europe, is key stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. It was built between the 11th and 13th centuries and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I should also mention that it’s famous for its aerospace industry and, as another university town, has a vibrant student life. Perfect if you’re moving with a family.

Monthly Cost: Around €1,600 ($1,740).

No 5 – Strasbourg

Old timbered colourful buildings by the water in Strasbourg in France

Strasbourg is in the Alsace region and is famous for its Christmas markets, and yes that is markets in the plural as there are thirteen in total.

This area is stunningly beautiful with its pastel coloured half-timbered buildings and network of canals that run through the city. The Strasbourg Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture completed in 1439. It was the world’s tallest building until 1874 and remains one of the tallest churches globally. The astronomical clock inside the cathedral is a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering and art.

Plus, it’s the seat of several important European institutions, such as the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights. And that is just scratching the tip of the iceberg.

Monthly Cost: Approx. €1,500 ($1,620).

No 6 – Lyon

A vibrant sunset paints the sky in warm hues of pink and blue over Lyon, France. In the foreground, the iconic red footbridge, Passerelle Saint-Vincent, spans the tranquil waters of the River Saône. Historical buildings, including a church with a pointed spire and houses with colorful facades, rise up the hillside. In the distance, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the metallic tower of Fourvière, often compared to the Eiffel Tower, are silhouetted against the glowing sky.

Lyon is the third largest city in France and widely thought to be the gastronomic capital so you’d think it would be expensive, but it isn’t. The cost of dining out is reasonable, with many affordable bistros and restaurants.

The city is also home to a vibrant arts scene, including numerous museums, galleries, and theatres. Additionally, Lyon hosts various free and low-cost cultural events throughout the year, such as the Festival of Lights in December, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

It has a history dating back over 2,000 years. It was founded by the Romans in 43 BC as Lugdunum, which quickly became an important city in the Roman Empire due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.

In the 16th century, Lyon became a major centre for silk production, attracting artisans and merchants from across Europe. This industry contributed to the city’s wealth and led to the construction of the traboules, a network of secret passageways used by silk workers to transport their goods while avoiding the weather.

It’s a fabulous city often passed over in favour of places like Paris and Nice.

Monthly Cost: Approximately €1,700 ($1,840).

No 7 – La Rochelle

The image depicts the vibrant harbor area of La Rochelle, France, on a clear day. A tranquil marina filled with an array of sailing boats and yachts is in the foreground, reflecting the blue sky above. Beyond the marina, the historic architecture of La Rochelle, including cream and white buildings with traditional shutters, lines the bustling waterfront promenade. Notable is a grand stone tower with a bell and clock, standing as a focal point amidst the cityscape. People are seen leisurely strolling, sitting, and enjoying the day along the water's edge. Flags flutter in the breeze, and the general atmosphere is one of a lively, scenic coastal town that is a popular destination for visitors.

La Rochelle, located on France’s Atlantic coast, is in the Charente Maritime, the next department on from where I live. It’s a harbour town with a tonne of history. Living in La Rochelle is affordable compared to other coastal cities in France.

The Marché des Halles, located in the heart of the city, sells fresh produce, lots of yummy seafood, and local delicacies at reasonable prices.

It has some seriously stunning beaches close by that offer outdoor activities, including sailing, kayaking, and cycling along the scenic coastline, all of which are accessible and often low-cost.

The city’s old port features the Tour de la Chaîne and the Tour Saint-Nicolas, which once guarded the harbour entrance and are now symbols of La Rochelle’s history.

The city was a significant Huguenot stronghold, and the 16th-century St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre left a profound mark on its history, with many Huguenots seeking refuge in La Rochelle.

Monthly Cost: Approx. €1,300 ($1,400).

No 8 – Nantes

View down a narrow street in Nantes, France, lined with traditional French buildings, leading towards a distant church spire, on a sunny day with a clear sky.

Nantes is located on the Loire River in western France with lots of green spaces, parks and gardens, such as the Jardin des Plantes and the Île de Versailles.It was originally a Gallic settlement before becoming an important Roman port.

During the mediaeval period, Nantes grew in significance as a major trading hub and a ducal seat of Brittany. One of the city’s most notable historical landmarks is the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a grand castle that served as the residence of the Dukes of Brittany. Today, it houses the Nantes History Museum, giving you a little peek into the city’s past.

Nantes also played a vital role during the Industrial Revolution, becoming a centre for shipbuilding and manufacturing. The former shipyards on the Île de Nantes have been transformed into a cultural hub, featuring attractions such as Les Machines de l’île, where visitors can see giant mechanical animals inspired by the works of Jules Verne, who was born in Nantes.

Monthly Cost: Around €1,400 ($1,510).

No 9 – Rouen

A stunning elevated view of Rouen, showcasing the intricate Gothic architecture of Rouen Cathedral, which dominates the skyline with its elaborate spire. The cathedral's complex façade and flying buttresses are visible against a moody sky, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon light. In the foreground, traditional half-timbered houses with steeply pitched roofs, typical of Normandy's architectural style, cluster tightly together. The muted tones of the buildings, consisting of browns, beiges, and greys, complement the historic and somber atmosphere of the scene. The overall image captures the essence of Rouen's historical charm, blending imposing religious structures with the quaint, cozy feel of the city's old residential buildings.

Rouen is not far from Paris and is one of those places that quite simply takes your breath away. I was told that there are over 600 half-timbered buildings still left in Rouen and I had a view of them from our apartment when I stayed there.

In a word, this place is stunning and has more history than you can shake a stick at.

Of course, most famously it’s known for being the town where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, but there is so much more to Rouen than that. For example, the Musée des Beaux-Arts houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including works by Monet, Rubens, and Caravaggio.

It’s also famous for its stunning Gothic architecture, particularly the Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen). This magnificent cathedral, which inspired a series of paintings by Claude Monet, is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France.

There are also lots of fabulous restaurants, including the oldest auberge in France where Julia Child had her first French meal causing her to fall in love with the cuisine.

Monthly Costs: €1,400-€1,600 ($1,525-$1,745)

No 10 – Arras

A picturesque view of the main square in Arras, France, featuring historic Flemish Baroque architecture and the iconic bell tower under a cloudy sky.

This is one of the lesser known towns but it’s a great place to add to the list. It hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Main Square Festival, one of France’s largest music festivals attracting international artists and thousands of visitors.

There are plenty of green spaces, such as the Parc de la Citadelle and the Jardin du Gouverneur, and it’s a popular choice for students and academics.

It played a significant role during the mediaeval period, particularly in the Hundred Years’ War with the signing of the Treaty of Arras in 1435, which ended hostilities between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Burgundy.

The Arras Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is part of the Town Hall, with panoramic views of the city. And the Wellington Quarry (Carrière Wellington), an underground network of tunnels used by Allied forces during World War I, is fascinating.

Monthly Cost: €1,200-€1,500

No 11 – Saint-Omer

A charming scene in Saint Omer, France, with a canal lined by traditional buildings and a boat filled with colorful vegetables in the foreground.

Saint-Omer is in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, with picturesque canals and gorgeous architecture. One of Saint-Omer’s unique features is its extensive network of canals and marshlands, known as the Audomarois Marsh. This UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve is perfect for boating, fishing, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna. The Maison du Marais, a visitor centre dedicated to the marshlands, provides guided tours and educational exhibits.

The town was also an important location during World War II. The nearby La Coupole, an underground bunker complex built by the Nazis, is now a museum and visitor centre, providing insights into the region’s wartime history and the broader context of the war.

Monthly Costs: €1,000-€1,400

No 12 – Sarlat

The main centre of Sarlat la caneda in France

Sarlat-la-Canéda, commonly known as Sarlat, is one of the prettiest mediaeval villages in the Dordogne region. It’s also home to the Black Truffle and there is even a festival held in its honour. It gained prominence in the 14th century as a centre of ecclesiastical power and trade.

During the Renaissance, Sarlat flourished as a cultural hub, and many buildings from this era still stand today. The Maison de La Boétie, a Renaissance mansion, is one of the most famous structures in Sarlat, showcasing the town’s architectural evolution.

The Saturday market in the town centre is one of the largest and most popular in the Dordogne region.

The town hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the Sarlat Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and movie enthusiasts from around the world. The Festival des Jeux du Théâtre de Sarlat is another highlight, featuring outdoor theatre performances in the town’s historic squares.

Monthly Cost: €1,000-€1,400

Final Thoughts On Affordability Of Living In France

If you’re serious about a change of scenery and looking for a slower more relaxed pace of life then you’ll love France. Obviously, it depends on where you go as to how fast life is.

But the French value their lifestyle and they aren’t a nation of workaholics, which is one of the things I love. Family comes first and time spent together is more important than material things.

If you want to know which region of France might suit you best try taking this quiz to find out.