If you are imagining life in France with your family, you are in good company. From British commuters searching for more space to German remote workers craving fresh air to US buyers dreaming of French village life, France continues to attract parents ready for something new. Whether you picture weekday school runs in a riverside town or weekends on Mediterranean beaches, the country has a remarkable range of places to put down roots.
This guide explores the best places to buy property in France for families in 2025. You will discover inspiring destinations for every lifestyle, with practical insight on schools, healthcare, transport and activities that make family life easier.
Share this:
Firstly, why buy a property in France?
There are few places in Europe where everyday life feels quite as rich in simple pleasures as France. Imagine starting your morning with fresh croissants on the terrace, then walking to the village market to collect vegetables, cheese, and perhaps a bottle of local wine for later. This country has perfected the art of living well, and in 2025 it continues to hold strong appeal for families seeking a better balance.
France is home to some of the world’s most celebrated cuisine. Your weekly shop might include a few of the 1,600 types of cheese produced here, along with produce from markets that seem designed to test your willpower. Vineyards cover more than 790,000 hectares, producing nearly 50 million hectolitres of wine annually. It is little wonder so many buyers come for the scenery and stay for the food.
Healthcare is another advantage. France’s public system consistently ranks in the world’s top ten, and families can access reliable paediatric services, modern hospitals, and well-organised insurance options. This level of care gives many parents peace of mind.
Travel connections are equally impressive. High-speed trains link cities in a matter of hours, and low-cost airlines cover much of Europe and beyond. Whether you need to commute to London or simply enjoy regular trips to see relatives, France makes it remarkably straightforward.
Eymet is a picturesque bastide town in southwest France that has quietly evolved into one of the most popular hubs for British families. Cobbled squares, colourful markets, and the gentle flow of the Dropt River create a postcard backdrop that feels instantly familiar yet undeniably French. Summers here are warm without becoming unbearable, and the community life is lively all year round, thanks to a large and well-established expat presence.
Transport connections are surprisingly good for a rural area. Bergerac Airport is just 25 km away, offering flights to London, Brussels, and other European cities. Bordeaux is reachable in under two hours by car. For many parents, the appeal is the blend of slow Dordogne charm with the reassuring presence of other international families.
Why families love it:
Welcoming British and Dutch communities that make integration easier Affordable stone houses and spacious gardens compared to coastal regions Weekly markets and year-round events that help children settle in
Paris needs very little introduction. This is a city where grand museums, leafy parks, and historic cafés compete for your attention, and where family life can be as lively or as peaceful as you choose. While central arrondissements are bustling, many families prefer quieter neighbourhoods such as the 16th or the village-like streets of Montmartre. The climate is mild, with warm summers and crisp but manageable winters.
Transport is second to none. Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports link you to the rest of the world. High-speed trains reach London in under three hours. Daily life is helped by an impressive public transport network that makes commuting or school runs relatively straightforward.
Why families love it:
Access to world-class museums, parks, and cultural institutions Excellent public transport and international flight connections A large international community with many English-speaking services
Nice combines Mediterranean sunshine with the elegance of the Côte d’Azur, making it a perennial favourite for families who want coastal living with city comforts. The Promenade des Anglais curves along pebbled beaches where children can swim nearly year-round. The old town’s colourful market streets are perfect for weekend strolls. Winters are mild, and summers bring reliable sunshine.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is less than 15 minutes from the city centre and offers direct flights across Europe and to North America. High-speed trains connect you to Marseille, Paris, and Italy, making it easy to explore.
Why families love it:
Sunshine and sea air that support an active lifestyle Bilingual schools and a strong international community Proximity to the Alps for winter skiing
Mougins is a hilltop village near Cannes with a reputation for art, gastronomy, and a relaxed Mediterranean pace. Narrow lanes lined with galleries and cafés offer a charming daily backdrop, while family homes here often come with generous gardens and sea views. The climate is typically Côte d’Azur, with warm, dry summers and mild winters.
Nice Airport is about 25 km away, and the A8 motorway links Mougins quickly to Antibes, Cannes, and Monaco. This makes commuting practical for working parents who prefer village life over city bustle.
Why families love it:
Excellent bilingual education options Safe, walkable village atmosphere Proximity to beaches and cultural attractions
Nearest international school: Mougins School (5 minutes by car)
Toulouse offers a lively mix of southern French charm and modern opportunity. Known for its aerospace industry and large university population, the city feels energetic without being overwhelming. The Garonne River winds through leafy parks, and the brick architecture gives the city its distinctive pink glow. Summers are hot and sunny, while winters are short and mild.
Blagnac Airport connects Toulouse to major European cities and North Africa. High-speed trains run to Bordeaux and Paris. The efficient tram and metro system makes commuting simple.
Why families love it:
Strong job market, especially in STEM sectors Excellent public services and cultural facilities Mild climate with plenty of outdoor activities
Pau sits in the foothills of the Pyrenees, offering a remarkable blend of mountain views, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure. The town has long been a favourite of British families seeking a gentler climate and a more affordable lifestyle than the Côte d’Azur. Summers are warm but rarely too hot, and winters bring crisp air and easy access to skiing.
Pau Pyrénées Airport connects to Paris and London, and the TGV line links you to Bordeaux and Toulouse. Daily life feels peaceful, with markets, cafés, and elegant squares that encourage a slower rhythm.
Why families love it:
Access to hiking and ski resorts within an hour’s drive Lower property prices compared to larger cities Family-friendly festivals and a strong sense of community
Flumet is a traditional Alpine village in the Savoie region, perfect for families who dream of living among snow-capped peaks. The pace is unhurried, with life revolving around mountain sports, markets, and local festivals. Summers are cool and fresh, while winters bring consistent snowfall ideal for skiing.
Geneva Airport is about 85 km away, and the A40 motorway links you to the rest of the region. Regular buses and ski shuttles keep the area well connected during the high season.
Why families love it:
Direct access to some of France’s best ski areas A safe, close-knit village atmosphere Plenty of fresh air and outdoor activities
Verneuil-sur-Avre feels like a step back in time. This Normandy town combines half-timbered houses, a medieval château, and cobbled streets that have changed little over the centuries. The climate is mild, with warm summers and cooler winters that rarely become extreme.
Paris is under 90 minutes by train, making it practical for commuters and regular visitors. The A13 motorway offers quick connections across Normandy.
Why families love it:
Beautiful heritage architecture and village feel Lower property prices than Paris or the Riviera Easy weekend trips to the coast or the capital
Strasbourg is a vibrant city on the Rhine, famous for its blend of French and German influences. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the mix of Gothic cathedrals, canals, and modern institutions gives Strasbourg an atmosphere that is both historic and forward-looking. Summers are warm, winters crisp and often snowy.
The city’s TGV station links to Paris in under two hours, and Strasbourg Airport provides connections across Europe. Trams and buses make daily travel simple.
Why families love it:
Excellent bilingual education options International organisations and strong expat networks Parks, museums, and cultural events year round
Angers is an elegant city in the Loire Valley, known for its historic château, botanical gardens, and relaxed riverside atmosphere. The climate is temperate, with mild winters and pleasant summers. Families appreciate the balance of culture, affordability, and modern services.
Angers-Saint-Laud station offers fast trains to Paris in under 90 minutes. Nantes Airport is just over an hour away by car.
Why families love it:
Affordable housing with a high quality of life Rich cultural scene and excellent schools Proximity to the Loire castles and vineyards
Montpellier is a lively Mediterranean city with a young, international feel. Elegant boulevards, leafy squares, and sandy beaches just 15 km away make this an appealing place to raise a family. The climate is reliably sunny, with warm summers and mild winters.
Montpellier Airport provides flights across Europe, and the TGV station links to Paris in under four hours. An efficient tram network keeps daily commutes easy.
Why families love it:
Beaches and nature on your doorstep Bilingual schools and diverse expat community Abundant cultural and sports facilities
Sailing lessons at Palavas-les-Flots Exploring the zoo and Amazon greenhouse Street theatre and music festivals in summer
Buying process snapshot
France has a clear and well-regulated buying process, though it involves more paperwork than you might expect. Once you have agreed a price, you will sign a compromis de vente, a binding agreement that outlines terms and conditions. A deposit of 5 to 10 per cent is typically paid at this stage.
Your notaire will handle legal checks, confirm property boundaries, and ensure all required diagnostics are completed. These reports cover energy efficiency, asbestos, lead, termites, and more. Budget for notary fees and taxes, which usually total between 7 and 8 per cent of the purchase price.
If you are moving with children, you will need birth certificates translated into French, vaccination records, and proof of school enrolment or planned enrolment. Many local authorities will ask for these before granting residency.
Family benefits: The CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) provides support payments and childcare subsidies. Visit the official CAF website to check eligibility.
Healthcare cover: Consider registering for public health insurance through the French social security system. Many families also choose private policies for quicker access to specialists.
School finder tool: Research schools in your preferred region early. Demand for places can be high, especially in bilingual and international schools.
For peace of mind, keep digital and paper copies of all documents in both English and French.
France has a way of winning over even the most cautious buyers. Whether you dream of a farmhouse in the Dordogne, a city flat in Paris, or a sunny family villa near the Med, there is no shortage of options to match your lifestyle.
With a robust property market, excellent schools, and a culture that celebrates food, family, and good living, it is easy to see why so many people are taking the leap.
If you are ready to start your search, browse Kyero’s listings or speak with local partner agents for expert guidance.
Next up:
Step by step guide to buying property in France
Moving to France? Here’s our step-by-step buying property in France guide, read on to learn all the essentials on how to buy property in France!
Be the first to comment!