The Brittany real estate market, after a promising start to 2025, is finding its footing, though a degree of caution remains. While a full-blown forecast is elusive given global economic uncertainties, notaries across the region report a stabilization, albeit a nuanced one. The allure of Brittany’s coastline persists, commanding premium prices—around €4,700 per square meter in Saint-Malo, nearly €6,400 per square meter in La Baule and approximately €3,300 per square meter along the southern Finistère coast—but even these coveted areas are experiencing a correction. This shift reflects a broader trend: a two-tiered market where coastal properties adjust while inland areas regain equilibrium.
“We are currently seeing a real estate market with two speeds, where the coastlines are beginning a correction while the rest of the territory gradually finds a point of balance,” explains Nicolas Bosquet, spokesperson for the Chambre des Notaires de l’Ouest, which covers historical Brittany. According to the chamber’s latest analysis, the median price of older apartments in Brittany reached €3,120 per square meter, a slight decrease of 0.8% year-over-year. Latest apartments are also seeing a modest decline, settling at €4,340 per square meter, down 2.8%. Still, older houses are holding steady, selling for around €230,000—a 1.3% increase—and building land is becoming more valuable, with a median price of €122 per square meter (€58,600 total), up 1.7%.
The uptick in sales activity further suggests a market seeking stability. Compared to 2024, 2025 has seen increases in sales volume across most property types in Brittany: a 7.9% rise in older apartment sales, a 6% increase for older houses, and an 11.4% jump in building land transactions. New apartments, however, are bucking the trend, experiencing an 11.9% decrease in sales. This divergence underscores the market’s search for equilibrium. But sustained recovery hinges on external factors beyond the control of the real estate sector itself. Long-term investment decisions are heavily influenced by clarity surrounding taxation, housing policies, and, crucially, interest rates.
The Enduring Appeal of the Breton Coast
Brittany consistently ranks among France’s most popular regions for second homes. It currently holds the fourth position, trailing only Corsica, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), and Occitanie. According to data from Bretagne Économique, second homes represent 12% of the region’s total housing stock, with a significant concentration near the coastline. A substantial majority—over three-quarters—of these second homes are houses, and many are quite old, with 40% built before 1945.
The coastal market for older houses exhibits considerable variation across Brittany’s departments. In Côtes-d’Armor, prices remain high along the Côte d’Émeraude (€312,700), driven by sought-after towns like Lancieux (€472,500). Further west, southern Finistère offers more accessible coastal options, with prices around €223,200 in the Landevennec–Plomeur area, and even increases in areas like Crozon (+6.3%), where the median price now stands at €261,000. Morbihan remains one of the most expensive departments, with a median price of €363,800, despite a 4.3% decrease. Popular resorts like Carnac (€642,500, +3.6%) and Quiberon (€442,900) continue to command high prices.
In Ille-et-Vilaine, the Pays Malouin area—centered around Saint-Malo—continues to be a premium market. Saint-Malo’s median price exceeds €399,900, with neighboring towns like Dinard and Cancale pushing prices even higher in a tight, low-inventory market. Loire-Atlantique’s Côte d’Amour remains the region’s most desirable coastal area, with a median price of €410,000, although La Baule (-9.3%, €559,500) and Le Croisic (-10.3%, €403,500) have seen marked corrections. “From one coastline to another, historical Brittany presents a landscape where ‘prestige’ markets, intermediate territories, and more affordable areas coexist, all driven by sustained demand,” emphasizes Elisabeth Sechet, Communications Delegate for Morbihan.
The Role of Second Homes
The prevalence of second homes in Brittany—12% of the total housing stock—plays a significant role in shaping the market dynamics. These properties, often older houses, contribute to the sustained demand, particularly along the coastline. This demand, while beneficial for some, also raises questions about affordability for local residents and the long-term sustainability of coastal communities.
Navigating the Current Market
For potential buyers in Brittany, the current market presents a mixed picture. While prices remain elevated in prime coastal locations, the recent corrections offer a potential opportunity for those seeking value. The increase in sales activity for older houses and building land suggests a growing willingness among sellers to negotiate. However, the uncertainty surrounding global economic conditions and interest rates necessitates a cautious approach.
The market for new apartments, facing a decline in sales, may offer opportunities for buyers seeking modern properties, but it also reflects broader concerns about construction costs and financing. The differing trends between coastal and inland areas highlight the importance of localized research and understanding the specific dynamics of each department.
Looking ahead, the Brittany real estate market will continue to be influenced by macroeconomic factors. The next key indicator to watch will be the European Central Bank’s (ECB) decision on interest rates in July 2025, which could significantly impact mortgage rates and buyer confidence. The ECB’s website provides regular updates on monetary policy decisions.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about the Brittany real estate market and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Consult with a qualified professional before making any real estate decisions.
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