Moving to Bordeaux, France

Welcome to Bordeaux, a city where old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation harmonize beautifully. Nestled in the southwest of France, this UNESCO-listed city offers a unique blend of architectural grandeur, world-class gastronomy, and a rapidly expanding tech ecosystem—making it a top contender for both career growth and exceptional quality of life.

Known globally for its legendary wines and neoclassical beauty, Bordeaux has transformed over the past two decades from a sleepy provincial town into a smart city on the rise. The city is now recognized for its digital transformation, environmentally conscious urban planning, and vibrant cultural scene. Its manageable size and excellent infrastructure make it particularly appealing for newcomers seeking a balanced lifestyle—think morning runs along the Garonne River, followed by productive workdays and sunset apéros in historic squares.

🚀 A Rising Tech Hub

Though Paris still dominates France’s tech scene, Bordeaux is emerging as a serious challenger, often dubbed the “Silicon Valley of the Southwest.” The city has a thriving tech ecosystem with numerous startups, including at least 46 prominent ones as per Seedtable.com in 2025, several digital incubators (like La French Tech Bordeaux and Le Campement), and growing specializations in AI, aerospace, green tech, and healthtech.

Major companies like Dassault Aviation, Thales, and Ubisoft have operations here, alongside a healthy ecosystem of local scaleups and unicorns. Plus, thanks to its connection to Paris via high-speed TGV (just 2 hours) and proximity to Spain, Bordeaux is uniquely positioned for both national and international business growth.

According to a 2023 report by La French Tech, Bordeaux saw a 16% increase in tech job postings over the previous year—outpacing national averages and attracting both local talent and international professionals. Bordeaux Technowest, one of the city’s key innovation hubs, has supported more than 500 startups since its founding.

🌍 A City That Welcomes Change

For individuals and families relocating from within France or abroad, Bordeaux delivers a cosmopolitan yet relaxed atmosphere. Its population has steadily grown to over 1 million residents in the greater metropolitan area (INSEE, 2023), driven by internal migration, international talent, and a thriving student base.

Key relocation draws include:

• Excellent work-life balance (the city scores among the top in France for employee wellbeing according to HelloWork)
• Top-tier public transport and growing cycling infrastructure
• Mild Atlantic climate with more than 2,000 hours of sunshine annually
• A flourishing creative, culinary, and outdoor scene
• Access to the Atlantic coast (45 mins) and Pyrenees mountains (2 hours)

Whether you're a tech professional seeking meaningful work in a growing ecosystem, or a curious individual dreaming of vineyards, ocean breezes, and café culture—Bordeaux offers the best of both worlds.

City Lifestyle

Bordeaux has a lifestyle that’s effortlessly chic yet grounded—a reflection of its blend of sophistication and laid-back southwestern charm. Residents enjoy a balanced rhythm of life that prioritizes well-being, culture, and social connection. It’s a city where long lunch breaks are still sacred, remote work cafés are thriving, and weekend escapes to the coast or countryside are a ritual.

For tech professionals, Bordeaux offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle of Paris. The city embraces flexible work models, supported by coworking spaces like W’iN Bordeaux, Mama Works, and La Halle Héméra—popular with digital nomads and startups. The tech scene here is collaborative rather than cutthroat, with frequent meetups, hackathons, and after-work events.

Social life revolves around open-air terraces, riverside bars, and local wine culture. Bordeaux’s residents tend to be early risers during the week, but the city definitely comes alive on the weekends with bustling markets, street festivals, and vibrant nightlife in areas like Saint-Pierre and Chartrons.

Cultural Highlights and Attractions

Bordeaux’s cultural heritage is as rich as its wine. The historic center, with over 350 protected buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Iconic sights include:

• Place de la Bourse & the Water Mirror – the city's most photographed spot
• La Cité du Vin – a modern wine museum and architectural marvel
• Musée des Beaux-Arts – housing works from Rubens, Delacroix, and Picasso
• Darwin Ecosystème – a repurposed military barracks turned into an urban eco-campus, tech incubator, and cultural hotspot

The city also hosts major festivals such as:

• Fête du Vin (Wine Festival) – a must for oenophiles every two years
• Festival International des Arts de Bordeaux Métropole (FAB) – contemporary arts with global reach
• Climax Festival – where music, environment, and activism collide

Local traditions include the Bordeaux canelé, a rum- and vanilla-flavored pastry that pairs perfectly with an espresso or a glass of Sauternes. And don’t be surprised if locals engage in spirited debates over the best local appellations—wine is more than a drink here, it’s a lifestyle.

Popular Neighborhoods

Bordeaux’s neighborhoods offer a variety of lifestyles for newcomers—whether you're a tech professional looking for buzz, or a family wanting parks and schools close by.

Chartrons

Once home to wine merchants, Chartrons is now one of Bordeaux’s trendiest areas. You’ll find renovated lofts, chic boutiques, organic markets, and plenty of design agencies and coworking spaces. It’s a favorite for young professionals and creative freelancers, with easy access to the city center and the river.

Saint-Michel

Vibrant, multicultural, and a bit bohemian—Saint-Michel is beloved for its bustling market square, street food, and lively expat vibe. Rents here are more affordable than in Chartrons, and it’s close to Gare Saint-Jean, Bordeaux’s main train station. Ideal for commuters and startup workers.

Caudéran

Caudéran is Bordeaux’s version of a quiet, leafy suburb—but it’s still within city limits. With its excellent schools, parks (like Parc Bordelais), and a more residential feel, this area is especially popular with families and expats with children.

Bastide (Right Bank)

Located across the Garonne River, Bastide is seeing rapid development, attracting younger crowds and tech workers seeking larger living spaces at better prices. With eco-friendly housing projects, startup hubs like Darwin, and improved tram access, it’s a future-forward neighborhood.

Le Bouscat & Mérignac

For those working in aerospace or logistics tech, these suburban areas west of the center offer quick access to Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport and major employers like Dassault and Thales. They’re well connected and have a more suburban, family-friendly feel.

Bordeaux offers a balanced lifestyle with a cost of living that is generally more affordable than Paris and slightly below the national average for a single person. Below is a detailed breakdown of major expenses, updated with the latest data to give you an accurate picture of what to expect.

Breakdown of Major Expenses

Housing

• 1-bedroom apartment in city center: €756/month

• 1-bedroom apartment outside center: €608/month

• 3-bedroom apartment in city center: €1,388/month

• 3-bedroom apartment outside center: €1,044/month

  Source: Numbeo

Rental prices in Bordeaux reflect its growing popularity, yet they remain reasonable compared to larger French cities. These figures are current averages based on recent data.

Utilities

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): €220/month

• Internet (60+ Mbps, unlimited data): €28/month

• Mobile phone plan (10GB+ data): €21/month

  Source: Numbeo

Utility costs have been adjusted to align with Bordeaux’s latest reported averages, ensuring accuracy for a typical household.

Transportation

• One-way ticket (local transport): €1.80

• Monthly pass: €43.50

• Taxi start (normal tariff): €2.00

• Taxi per km (normal tariff): €1.66

• Gasoline (1 liter): €1.80

  Source: Numbeo

Public transport remains affordable, while fuel prices reflect recent European trends, making Bordeaux a practical city for commuters.

Food

• Monthly groceries for one person: Approximately €515

• Milk (1 liter): €1.09

• Bread (500g): €1.86

• Rice (1kg): €2.65

• Eggs (12): €4.34

• Local cheese (1kg): €13.60

• Chicken breast (1kg): €14.10

• Apples (1kg): €2.90

• Bananas (1kg): €2.00

  Source: Numbeo

Food costs are based on current supermarket prices in Bordeaux, with the monthly grocery estimate reflecting a moderate lifestyle for one person.

Dining Out

• Lunch menu (inexpensive restaurant): €19.00

• Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant: €54.00

• Fast food meal: €10.00

• Cappuccino: €3.30

  Source: Numbeo

Dining out in Bordeaux offers a range of options, from casual lunches to mid-range dinners, with prices updated to match today’s rates.

Entertainment & Miscellaneous

• Fitness club membership: €32.63/month

• Cinema ticket: €12.00

• Haircut: €13.90

  Source: Numbeo

Entertainment and personal care costs are modest, contributing to Bordeaux’s appeal as a livable city.

Comparison

When compared to other major French cities, Bordeaux’s cost of living for a single person is:

• Paris: €2,054/month

• Lyon: €1,402/month

• Bordeaux: €1,384/month

• Toulouse: €1,333/month

  Source: Instarem | International money transfers, cross-checked October 2023

This positions Bordeaux as a more affordable option than Paris and Lyon, while remaining competitive with Toulouse. It also sits slightly below the national average for a single person, making it an attractive choice for those seeking both value and a vibrant lifestyle.

Salary Ranges

Bordeaux’s tech sector is flourishing, offering competitive salaries that make it an appealing hub for professionals. While these figures may sit slightly below Paris levels, the city’s lower cost of living ensures a high quality of life. Here’s a rundown of average annual salaries for key tech roles in Bordeaux, updated with the latest data:

• Software Developer: Around €46,800 (with entry-level positions starting at approximately €40,000)
• Senior Software Developer: €52,500
• Data Analyst: €44,000
• DevOps Engineer: €43,000–€45,000
• Tech Lead: €49,000–€52,000 (estimated)
• Information Technology Engineer: €54,300
• Web Developer: €70,000

These amounts reflect median salaries and can shift depending on experience, education, and specialized skills. Sources: levels.fyi, Glassdoor, Salary Expert, ERI Economic Research Institute

Comparison

Bordeaux’s tech salaries stack up impressively against broader benchmarks:

• National Average Salary (All Industries): €39,800
• Average Salary in Bordeaux (All Industries): €44,000
• Average Tech Salary in France: €45,000–€74,000

These tech salaries not only compete with national averages but, combined with Bordeaux’s more affordable lifestyle compared to Paris, position the city as a prime spot for tech talent. Sources: Timeular, PayScale

Overview of Family Services

🧒 Education

Bordeaux offers a range of educational institutions, including public, private, and international schools. The city is home to several schools that cater to diverse educational needs. For instance, the Groupe scolaire Jean Cocteau in Caudéran provides elementary and kindergarten education.

🏥 Healthcare

The city boasts a robust healthcare system with numerous hospitals and clinics. The Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Bordeaux, a major hospital complex including a pediatric department at its Pellegrin site, provides comprehensive medical services for families and children.

🌳 Parks and Recreation

Bordeaux is rich in green spaces, offering numerous parks and gardens for families to enjoy. Notable examples include:

• Parc Bordelais: Located in the Caudéran district, this park features a variety of attractions for children, including a small train, puppet shows, and a playground.
• Jardin Public: Situated in the city center, it offers a serene environment with a playground and a pond, making it ideal for family outings.
• Parc de Bourran: Located in Mérignac, this park boasts expansive lawns, a pond, and playgrounds, providing ample space for children to play and explore.

👶 Childcare

Bordeaux provides various childcare options, including public and private crèches, after-school programs, and nanny services. The city’s PMI (Protection Maternelle et Infantile) offers free consultations for children up to age 6, supporting working parents with quality care.

Appealing Features for Families

🎉 Activities and Attractions

Bordeaux offers a plethora of family-friendly activities:

• La Cité du Vin: While primarily focused on wine, it offers interactive exhibits that can be educational for older children.
• Cap Sciences: An interactive science museum located in the Chartrons district, featuring exhibits and workshops suitable for children.
• Darwin Ecosystème: A unique space combining co-working areas, restaurants, and cultural events, often hosting family-oriented activities.

🏘️ Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

Several neighborhoods in Bordeaux are particularly appealing to families:

• Caudéran: Known for its residential atmosphere, good schools, and proximity to parks like Parc Bordelais.
• Chartrons: Offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with access to schools and recreational areas.
• Mérignac: A suburb with a family-friendly environment, featuring parks like Parc de Bourran and various educational institutions.

Relocating to Bordeaux is made smoother with the assistance of experienced relocation agencies. These professionals offer comprehensive services, from housing searches to administrative support, ensuring a seamless transition for individuals and families alike.

🏡Top Relocation Agencies in Bordeaux

1. Home Explorer

With over 15 years of experience, Home Explorer specializes in personalized relocation services. They offer tailored home search assistance and support with administrative procedures for both individuals and corporate clients. Their dedicated consultants provide end-to-end support, ensuring a stress-free move. home-explorer.com

2. Bordeaux Life

Bordeaux Life offers lifestyle management and relocation services, including pre-arrival advice, temporary accommodation sourcing, home and school search, and ongoing support post-move. Their multilingual team brings personal relocation experience, offering empathetic and practical assistance. bordeauxlife.com

3. French Start

French Start provides a wide range of services to facilitate your move, including immigration procedures, accommodation search, education enrollment, business setup assistance, and administrative and legal support. Their mission is to make your relocation experience as positive as possible. french-start.com

4. Bordeaux Relocation

Since 2009, Bordeaux Relocation has been assisting individuals and companies with their relocations, offering personalized relocation plans, housing search assistance, and administrative support. Their expertise ensures a smooth transition to Bordeaux. relocation-bordeaux.fr

5. Expat Services France

Expat Services France offers comprehensive relocation services, including immigration assistance, accommodation sourcing, school enrollment support, and cultural integration programs. They have been assisting French and foreign employees since 2009. expat-services-france.com

Current Job Openings

Bordeaux’s job market is on the rise, especially in sectors like tech, aerospace, biotech, green energy, and digital media. The region continues to attract major firms like Dassault Aviation, Ubisoft, Thales, and a wealth of dynamic startups supported by La French Tech Bordeaux and incubators such as Bordeaux Technowest.

For tech professionals seeking opportunities in Bordeaux, we strongly recommend browsing job listings through TieTalent:

👉 Explore tech jobs in Bordeaux on TieTalent

TieTalent specializes in tech and digital roles, offering personalized matchmaking between companies and candidates across Europe—making it the ideal platform for newcomers seeking roles in Bordeaux’s fast-growing tech scene.

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Income Tax Overview

In France, income tax works on a progressive scale, meaning that rates increase as income increases. Here’s how it works:

• 0% on annual income up to €11,294
• 11% on €11,295 – €28,797
• 30% on €28,798 – €82,341
• 41% on €82,342 – €177,106
• 45% on income above €177,106

These rates apply to individual income, and France uses a "household quotient" system, meaning the tax rate is adjusted based on the number of people in your household.

💡 Social Contributions

In addition to income tax, residents must pay social contributions, which typically amount to 9.2%–17.2% of income depending on the source (employment, investment, etc.). These fund France’s excellent public healthcare, pensions, and other welfare programs.

🧮 Want to estimate your taxes?

You can calculate your estimated French income tax using TieTalent’s calculator:

👉 French Income Tax Calculator – TieTalent