From vineyard to villages, France has long been a favourite for international retirees, whether from the UK, USA or anywhere else.
But recent demographic insights reveal that two regions in particular that stand out as places in France to retire, especially for the British, but for the French as well. Both regions make retirement easy, not just because they’re beautiful parts of France, but because of the local amenities.
With thriving international communities and high proportions of mature residents, these areas offer a unique combination of lifestyle, comfort and community.
Contents
- A landscape made for living well
- Places in France to retire where the Brits already are
- Why an ageing population is a good sign
- Property potential in slower-paced places
- How to make your move easier
- Frequently asked questions
A landscape made for living well
According to the recent data available from national statistics bureau INSEE (Institut national de la statistique et des études économiques), there are two departments that are particularly popular among the over 65s: Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Both Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine offer a combination of space, climate and cultural heft – and not just for the holiday season. These are regions where you can live well year-round, with strong public services, access to healthcare, and a pace of life that supports wellbeing without sacrificing convenience. They are also warmer in winter than the northern regions.
Occitanie spans from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean, with regional hubs like Toulouse and Montpellier offering international connections alongside vibrant cultural life. Inland, you’ll find rural villages, market towns and landscapes that change from vineyards to mountains in the space of an hour’s drive.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine stretches up the Atlantic coast from the Basque Country to Poitou-Charentes, anchored by Bordeaux – a major city with a strong international community and excellent healthcare infrastructure.
In two such large regions it is impossible to generalise, but your daily life can certainly involve outdoor markets, local associations and seasonal events. You’re likely to spend more time outdoors, whether looking after a garden or even land, walking or cycling in the hills, or meeting neighbours at a village café. The regions benefit from more sunshine than most of northern France.
Crucially, both regions are well connected. You’ll find airports with direct flights to the UK, rail services linking you to Paris and Spain, and growing access to high-speed broadband even in rural areas. Whether you want to stay in close contact with family or just keep life practical and manageable, Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine are great options.
Places in France to retire where the Brits already are
One of the most practical ways to choose a location abroad is to look at where others like you have already settled. In this case, the numbers are clear. According to INSEE data, Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine are home to more British residents than any other region in France.
| Region | British residents |
|---|---|
| Nouvelle-Aquitaine | 38,814 |
| Occitanie | 23,094 |
| Île-de-France | 16,068 |
| Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes | 13,721 |
| Brittany | 11,104 |
| Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur | 10,075 |
This presence means you’re more likely to find English-speaking professionals – estate agents, solicitors and tradespeople, if you prefer that – as well as community networks you can join if and when you choose to. Some towns have local associations run by other expats offering practical advice or organising cultural activities. You’ll also find informal support, whether through Facebook groups, book clubs, or simply conversations at the weekly market.
Settling abroad can feel daunting, especially if you’re planning to upsticks completely. Indeed, in our most recent reader survey, around 30% of people looking to retire overseas were planning to go alone. That’s quite a challenge, but what an opportunity!
Knowing that others have made the move successfully – and stayed – is often a source of reassurance. You’ll still need to engage with French systems and learn the language, but you won’t have to figure it all out on your own. In these regions, there’s a strong foundation in place for you to build a new life at your own pace, with as much or as little support as you need.
Why an ageing population is a good sign
When you’re planning for the long term, the age profile of a region can tell you a great deal about how liveable it really is. In both Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine, a higher than average proportion of the population is aged 65 or over.
Should that worry you? It’s inevitable that cities attract younger people simply because they are where people work, but don’t worry, there are still plenty in Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine too!
Even so, a higher share of older residents can go hand in hand with practical benefits such as reliable healthcare services and better local transport. It often means stronger community ties and public investment in age-appropriate services and amenities.
Here are some departments in these two regions with the highest share of residents aged 65 and over:
| Department | Region | Percentage aged 65+ |
|---|---|---|
| Lot | Occitanie | 32.8% |
| Dordogne | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | 31.2% |
| Aude | Occitanie | 28.3% |
| Ariège | Occitanie | 27.9% |
| Charente-Maritime | Nouvelle-Aquitaine | 30.2% |
You’re more likely to find pharmacies with English-speaking staff and community centres that host social events geared towards older residents. This can make the transition to living in France far smoother, particularly if you’re planning to stay full time.
It also gives you the reassurance that you won’t be on the margins of the local population – quite the opposite. In many of these departments, you’ll be part of the majority.
Property potential
Regions with more mature populations often fly under the radar when it comes to property searches – and that’s precisely what makes them interesting. Departments such as the Lot-et-Garonne and Aude continue to offer good value, especially when compared to more saturated parts of southern France. If you’re looking for a place with character, space and long-term comfort, these areas are well worth your attention.
You’ll find traditional village houses with period features, stone farmhouses with land and sensitively renovated properties that blend rural charm with modern insulation, heating systems, and broadband access.
Many of these homes are in walkable towns with amenities such as bakeries, GP surgeries, and weekly markets, making daily life not only affordable but also enjoyable and practical
How to make your move easier
Retiring abroad is a major decision – but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. You need to explore how to retire in France, as much as where. If you’re planning a move to France, getting organised early will give you greater clarity, confidence, and control over the process.
One of the most important considerations is how to manage your money across borders. Using a specialist currency exchange service rather than relying on your bank can help you make the most of your funds when transferring a lump sum for a property purchase or setting up regular pension payments. Services such as forward contracts allow you to lock in exchange rates in advance, protecting you from currency fluctuations that could affect your budget.
You’ll also need to think through the legal and administrative side of the move. Residency, tax, and inheritance rules in France can be complex, particularly post-Brexit. It’s worth speaking with an adviser who understands the needs of British retirees. They can guide you through everything from healthcare registration to structuring your assets in a way that’s compliant – and practical – under French law.
By working with a team that specialises in overseas moves, you’re more likely to avoid delays, misunderstandings, and unnecessary costs. You’ll have support when questions arise and reassurance that nothing vital has been overlooked. That peace of mind is especially valuable when you’re making decisions not just about a house, but about how and where you want to live in the years ahead.
You can start your search right here by looking through our directory of trusted partners.
Retire where you can thrive
Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine remain among the most appealing regions in France for British retirees – and for good reason. They offer a blend of affordability, community, healthcare access, and cultural richness that’s difficult to match. With large numbers of fellow British residents already settled there and local populations that reflect a slower, more balanced way of life, you’re unlikely to feel out of place.
These are places where you can enjoy your retirement without compromise – somewhere you can feel both welcome and at home, surrounded by landscapes that still leave room to breathe.
Ready to take the next step? Get in touch to discuss your plans, explore suitable properties, and make sure your finances are set up to support your life in France. We’re here to help you make the move – and to make it work for you. Book a free consultation today.
To take your plans further, it’s worth exploring both the how and the where of buying property in France. Understanding the legal steps, financial considerations, and administrative process will help you approach your move with clarity – you can start by reading our full guide on how to buy property in France. If you’re still deciding on the perfect location, our region-by-region breakdown of where to buy property in France offers expert insight into the areas that best suit your lifestyle, budget, and retirement goals.
Frequently asked questions
Why are Occitanie and Nouvelle-Aquitaine so popular with British retirees?
Both regions offer a rare mix of natural beauty, low living costs, excellent healthcare access and strong expat networks. These factors, combined with reliable infrastructure, make them ideal for long-term retirement living.
Is it easy to meet other English speakers in these areas?
Yes. Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie have the highest number of British residents in France. You’ll find English-speaking professionals, social groups, and supportive expat communities throughout many towns and villages.
What does a higher proportion of older residents indicate?
It typically means the area is well-equipped for senior living – with good healthcare, local transport, and services designed for quality of life in later years. It also suggests the region is seen as a comfortable, stable place to settle.
Are properties in these areas affordable?
Yes. While not cheap, departments like Lot, Dordogne, and Aude offer great value compared to more tourist-heavy areas. You can find charming homes with land or period features in walkable, well-connected locations.
What should I consider before moving?
Planning ahead is crucial. Work with experts on currency exchange, tax planning, and legal issues. Using a service that can help you transfer pensions or purchase property in euros efficiently will also protect your finances in the long term.
Can I still retire to France after Brexit?
Yes, but there are new residency requirements. Many British retirees opt for long-stay visas, and it’s important to seek guidance on healthcare, taxation, and legal residency before making the move.
