(Paris, February 2, 2026) — Biarritz has retained its position as the top city in France for quality of life, while Bordeaux has experienced a significant decline in the annual rankings.
A new ranking of 34,727 French municipalities reveals a shift in desirability, with mid-sized cities and coastal towns gaining prominence.
- Biarritz ranks No. 1 for the second consecutive year among cities with over 2,000 inhabitants.
- Bordeaux has fallen to 48th place nationally, a drop of 11 places in one year.
- The ranking considers 197 criteria, including quality of life, safety, and real estate.
- Mid-sized cities near employment centers or the coast are becoming increasingly attractive to residents.
Biarritz Leads the Way in Quality of Life
Table of Contents
For the second year in a row, Biarritz ranks No. 1 among cities with more than 2,000 inhabitants in France, according to data published by the association Cities and Villages where life is good and revealed by the Journal du Dimanche. The city bested Annecy and Angers, confirming a trend of growing appeal for western municipalities, which are often recognized for their living environment, dynamism, and coastal proximity.
Bordeaux’s Ranking Declines
Bordeaux has experienced a substantial drop in the rankings, falling to 48th place nationally, according to the same data. This represents a decline of 11 places in one year, 19 places in two years, and 40 places in six years. The city also ranks 16th among municipalities with 100,000 inhabitants or more in France.
The decline is attributed to persistent tensions in the real estate market, less favorable security indicators, and a slower rate of growth in attractiveness compared to medium-sized towns, the association stated.
A Shift Towards Mid-Sized Cities
The national trend highlights the increasing appeal of mid-sized cities located near major employment areas or the coast, as French residents seek a balance between services, nature, and housing costs. Épron, in Calvados, was once again recognized as the best village to live in France, followed by Guéthary and Martinvast.
Why It Matters
This ranking provides a valuable snapshot of evolving preferences among French residents. The decline of Bordeaux, a historically popular city, suggests that affordability and safety are becoming increasingly important factors in determining quality of life. The rise of mid-sized cities and coastal towns reflects a broader desire for a more balanced lifestyle, potentially driven by changing work patterns and a renewed focus on well-being. The ranking, based on 197 criteria divided into 11 categories, including quality of life, safety, health, transport, environment, solidarity, and real estate attractiveness, offers a comprehensive assessment of livability across France.
The criteria used in the ranking were weighted based on an OpinionWay survey, which found that French people prioritize quality of life, followed by safety and health.
Time.news based this report in part on reporting by Le Bonbon and added independent analysis and context.
