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Here are the top French cities where it's great to work in 2026!

undefined undefined 21 janvier 2026 undefined 08h30

The Editor

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Finding a job? Yes, but not at any cost. In 2025, the French want to work in safe, pleasant, and well-connected cities. The new Arthur Loyd ranking reveals the French cities that achieve the best balance between employment and quality of life. And this year, it’s mainly the "human-sized" cities that are shining the brightest.

Changing cities for a better life is no longer just a dream. Almost one in three French people are considering a geographic move to improve their daily life. Safety, quality of life, access to transportation, economic dynamism… These factors make a big difference, especially as local elections approach and quality of life issues are becoming prominent in public debates.

This is exactly what the 9th Arthur Loyd ranking of the most attractive cities in France measures, based on four main pillars: quality of life, economic vitality, business friendliness, and connectivity. The verdict? Major metropolitan areas continue to shine, but intermediate cities are definitely rising in power.


Toulouse holds strong, Montpellier surprises

Among the very large metropolitan areas, Toulouse maintains its status as a reliable choice. With its international influence, innovation hubs, and commitments to ecological transition, the Pink City continues to attract students, young professionals, and businesses. Its economic landscape, supported by a high level of graduates and a rich educational offering, remains one of its key strengths.

But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Toulouse has some weaknesses in the commercial real estate sector, with a lack of new office projects and coworking spaces. Just below it, Montpellier stands out as the big winner. Its vibrant job market and focus on future medicine make all the difference, even though the housing prices do put a damper on things.


Angers, the mid-sized city that checks (almost) all the boxes

If there’s one city that embodies the rise of mid-sized metropolitan areas, it’s Angers. Propelled to the top of its category, the city charms with its ability to attract businesses while offering a serene living environment. The transformation of entire neighborhoods, like Quai Saint-Serge, showcases this strategy that blends offices, coworking, and housing designed for students and young professionals.

Just 1h30 from Paris by TGV, Angers also enjoys a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with a noticeable increase in business startups in 2024. Add to that a large student population, a comprehensive higher education offering, and a high sense of security: the recipe works wonders.


Bayonne, Poitiers, La Rochelle: living well above all

In the race for attractiveness, Bayonne continues to lead the ranking of mid-sized cities. Its exceptional living environment, nestled between the sea and mountains, remains its strongest selling point, bolstered by a tailored offer of healthcare and education. Poitiers and La Rochelle round out the podium, confirming the growing appeal of cities where the balance between work and personal life is more attainable.

While some areas still have room to improve in welcoming businesses, others like Blois, Valence, and Compiègne are leading the way. One thing is for sure: in 2026, achieving success in your professional life will also, and especially, depend on choosing the right city.