For UK citizens looking to relocate, Bordeaux provides an excellent balance of affordability and quality, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle enriched by the city’s cultural and culinary offerings.
Bordeaux, often celebrated as the wine capital of the world, is quickly becoming one of the most attractive destinations for UK citizens seeking a new life in France. Located in the southwest of the country, Bordeaux offers an enticing mix of historic charm, vibrant cultural life, and modern amenities, making it a perfect escape for those looking to relocate. Known for its world-class vineyards, beautiful architecture, and relaxed lifestyle, the city is a haven for those who appreciate a slower pace of life while still enjoying the conveniences of a well-connected, cosmopolitan city.
Navigating the relocation process, including obtaining a France residence permit card, is essential for UK citizens, especially post-Brexit. In this article, we’ll explore why Bordeaux is an excellent choice for UK expats, discussing everything from the city’s cultural highlights to practical tips for settling down, ensuring a smooth transition to life in one of France’s most beloved regions.
Why choose Bordeaux for relocation?
Wine and gastronomy
Bordeaux is globally recognized as the wine capital of the world, boasting over 6,000 vineyards and producing some of the finest wines available. The city’s location in the heart of the Bordeaux wine region means that residents have unparalleled access to world-class vineyards and wine-tasting experiences just a short drive away. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy the occasional glass, Bordeaux’s wine culture offers an opportunity to immerse yourself in a tradition that is both historic and dynamic.
The culinary scene in Bordeaux complements its reputation as a wine hub. The city is filled with traditional bistros, fine dining establishments, and bustling markets offering fresh, locally sourced produce. From seafood fresh off the Atlantic coast to the classic French pâtisseries and local specialties like canelés (a famous Bordeaux pastry), living in Bordeaux means enjoying one of France’s most celebrated culinary destinations. For UK citizens, this means a lifestyle rich in flavors and the opportunity to experience French cuisine at its finest.
Quality of life
Bordeaux offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. The city’s beautifully preserved 18th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic monuments provide a sense of timeless elegance. At the same time, Bordeaux is a thriving modern city with all the amenities you’d expect, including shopping districts, international schools, and healthcare facilities. It’s no surprise that Bordeaux is frequently ranked as one of the best places to live in France.
Life in Bordeaux is relaxed, with a focus on outdoor activities and leisure. The city’s extensive bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets encourage a healthy, active lifestyle. Residents can enjoy the Garonne River’s scenic pathways, the city’s parks and gardens, and the nearby beaches of the Atlantic coast for surfing and sunbathing. The countryside surrounding Bordeaux also offers opportunities for hiking and exploring vineyards, making it an ideal place for nature lovers. For UK citizens, this laid-back lifestyle is a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of larger cities like London.
Economic opportunities and connectivity
Bordeaux’s economy is expanding beyond its traditional roots in wine production. The city is emerging as a hub for technology and business, with a growing presence of startups and tech firms, particularly in sectors such as green energy, aeronautics, and digital technology. This economic diversification creates opportunities for expats, including UK professionals, looking for career prospects in a dynamic and evolving job market.
Connectivity is another major advantage of living in Bordeaux. The city’s international airport, Bordeaux-Mérignac, offers direct flights to many major European destinations, making it easy for residents to travel for work or leisure. Additionally, Bordeaux’s high-speed TGV train links the city to Paris in just over two hours, providing easy access to the French capital for business or a weekend getaway. For UK citizens, this excellent transportation network makes Bordeaux a practical and accessible option for relocation, ensuring that the rest of Europe is just a short journey away.
Cost of living in Bordeaux
Housing costs
Housing in Bordeaux is generally more affordable than in major UK cities like London, but prices can vary depending on the neighborhood. In central and popular areas like Chartrons, Saint-Pierre, and the historic district, renting a one-bedroom apartment typically ranges from €800 to €1,200 per month. In more suburban or developing areas like Bastide or Bordeaux-Lac, rents drop to between €600 and €800 for a similar apartment. For those considering purchasing property, prices in central Bordeaux can range from €4,000 to €6,000 per square meter, whereas properties in suburban areas can be more affordable, averaging around €3,000 per square meter.
Renting is a popular option for newcomers, offering flexibility without the commitment of property ownership. Chartrons and Saint-Michel are ideal neighborhoods for expats seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle, while quieter areas like Caudéran or Bastide provide more space and affordability, particularly for families. For those looking to buy, Bordeaux offers a wide range of options, from historic apartments in the city center to modern homes and townhouses in newly developed areas. Buying property in Bordeaux is generally more affordable than in London, where central property prices often exceed £10,000 per square meter.
Daily expenses
Grocery costs in Bordeaux are moderate. For a single person, a monthly grocery bill typically ranges from €250 to €350, depending on shopping habits and preferences. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, and water, average around €100 to €150 per month for an 85m² apartment. Public transportation in Bordeaux is efficient and affordable, with a monthly pass costing approximately €40. Healthcare costs are also manageable, with doctor visits averaging €25 and prescriptions heavily subsidized by the French healthcare system.
In comparison to London, daily expenses in Bordeaux are significantly lower. Grocery bills in London can be around £300 to £400 (approximately €350-€470) per month, and transportation costs are higher, with a monthly public transport pass costing about £150 (€175). Utility costs in UK cities are also comparable, but healthcare expenses in the UK, while generally covered by the NHS, can involve longer wait times for non-urgent services. Bordeaux offers a balanced cost of living with access to quality services at a more affordable rate than in major UK cities.
Education and childcare
Bordeaux provides a range of schooling options, from free public schools to private and international institutions. Public schools are free and offer a high standard of education, while private and international schools, such as the Bordeaux International School, charge tuition fees ranging from €5,000 to €15,000 per year. Daycare costs are also relatively affordable, with monthly fees ranging from €300 to €800, depending on the type of care and facility.
In the UK, private school tuition varies widely but often exceeds £10,000 (approximately €12,000) per year, making education costs in Bordeaux relatively comparable. However, childcare costs in the UK are generally higher, especially in cities like London, where daycare fees can reach £1,000 to £1,500 (approximately €1,175-€1,750) per month. Bordeaux’s education and childcare options provide good value, particularly for expat families seeking quality services at a reasonable cost.
Entertainment and dining
Bordeaux offers a lively dining and entertainment scene. A mid-range three-course meal for two at a restaurant typically costs around €50 to €70, while more casual dining options, like a meal at a bistro, are around €15-€20 per person. Cinema tickets are priced at €10-€12, and a monthly fitness club membership averages between €30 and €50.
In the UK, particularly in cities like London, dining out is often more expensive, with a three-course meal for two costing around £70 to £100 (approximately €80-€115). Casual dining is also pricier, with meals averaging £20-£30 (€23-€35) per person. Cinema tickets in London and other major UK cities range from £12 to £15 (€14-€18). Fitness club memberships in the UK can be similar or slightly higher, often costing around £40-£60 (€46-€70) per month. Overall, Bordeaux offers more affordable dining and entertainment options, allowing residents to enjoy a high quality of life without overspending.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Bordeaux is generally lower than in major UK cities, especially when it comes to housing, dining, and childcare. For UK citizens looking to relocate, Bordeaux provides an excellent balance of affordability and quality, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle enriched by the city’s cultural and culinary offerings.
Photo by Valentin Wechsler on Unsplash
