Best areas for expats in Brittany, depending on lifestyle and preferences
Brittany is a fantastic choice for expats looking for a slower pace of life, coastal beauty, and affordability compared to other parts of France. Here are some of the best areas for expats in Brittany, depending on lifestyle and preferences:
1. Rennes – Best for Professionals & Families
• Pros: Brittany’s capital, vibrant city life, strong economy, excellent healthcare and transport links, and international community.
• Cons: No coastline (but close to Saint-Malo).
• Best Areas:
• Thabor – Saint-Hélier (upscale, central, near parks).
• Sainte-Thérèse – Quineleu (quiet, family-friendly).
• Villejean – Beauregard (affordable, diverse, near universities).
2. Vannes – Best for Coastal Living & Families
• Pros: Beautiful medieval town, marina, high quality of life, good healthcare, close to the Gulf of Morbihan.
• Cons: High property prices due to popularity.
• Best Areas:
• Saint-Patern (historic, lively, central).
• Conleau (near the beach, tranquil).
• Kercado (residential, affordable).
3. Dinan – Best for History Lovers & Retirees
• Pros: Stunning medieval town, affordable housing, close to the coast and Dinard airport.
• Cons: Smaller expat community than Rennes or Vannes.
• Best Areas:
• Intra-Muros (historic charm, cobbled streets).
• Le Port (along the Rance River, picturesque).
4. Saint-Malo – Best for Coastal City Life & Commuters
• Pros: Stunning beaches, ferry links to the UK, strong economy, great seafood.
• Cons: Touristy in summer, higher housing costs.
• Best Areas:
• Intra-Muros (historic, lively).
• Paramé (residential, quieter).
• Rothéneuf (upscale, scenic).
5. Quimper – Best for Arts & Culture Lovers
• Pros: Beautiful architecture, strong Breton identity, great food scene, affordable.
• Cons: Less connected for international travel.
• Best Areas:
• Historic Center (classic Breton charm).
• Ergué-Armel (residential, family-friendly).
6. Lorient – Best for Affordable Coastal Living
• Pros: Large port town, affordable housing, strong economy (shipbuilding & sailing culture).
• Cons: Less picturesque than other Breton towns.
• Best Areas:
• Merville (central, lively).
• Larmor-Plage (seaside, more upscale).
