Top-ranked places to live in France
Outside of major cities (2026 edition)
Looking to move or rethink where you live in France? This Ville de rêve ranking highlights mid-sized towns with great quality of life.
Compare places, explore detailed criteria, and adjust the filters to match what matters most to you and your family. Your next best-fit place might be one you hadn’t even considered !
Vannes
Medium-sized city
Located in the Brittany region, Vannes ranked 1st among other medium-sized towns and cities for its :
- Healthcare
- Climate conditions
- Sports
Quimper
Medium-sized city
Also in the Brittany region, Quimper ranked 2nd in 2026 and was recognized for its :
- Healthcare
- Climate conditions
- Sports
- Leisure activities
Besançon
Located in eastern France, it stands out for its excellent access to high-speed (TGV) trains :
- Transportation
- Leisure activities
- Dynamic area
- Sports
- Climate conditions
Bayonne
Medium-sized city
In southwest France, Bayonne achieved strong results across quality-of-life indicators.
- Sports
- Education
- Economy and jobs
Guérande
A small town near the Atlantic coast, Guérande ranked 1st overall.
- Healthcare
- Sports
- Education
Vitré
In 2026, Vitré placed 2nd among more than 1,200 small French towns.
- Education
- Healthcare
- Climate conditions
- Sports
Bordeaux
Located in southwest of France, Bordeaux is a vibrant city known for its wine and cultural heritage. As the economic hub of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, it offers an attractive lifestyle for families, students and young professionals.
Paris
Paris is one of the world’s most iconic cities, offering a unique blend of history, culture, career opportunities and lifestyle. From its world-class museums and architecture to its café culture and extensive public transport network, Paris attracts professionals, families, students, retirees and entrepreneurs from around the globe.
Strasbourg
Located in northeastern France near the German border, Strasbourg is a vibrant European city with a unique Franco-German culture, rich history, and excellent quality of life. It’s also home to major European institutions like the European Parliament, giving it an international flair that many expats appreciate.
Quillan
Tucked into the foothills of the Pyrenees in southern France, Quillan is a small but lively town in the Aude department of the Occitanie region. Surrounded by mountains and set along the River Aude, it offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities.
