Do you dream of a pied-à-terre in a seaside town on the French Riviera or of buying a Provencal farmhouse as a second home for your retirement? Then choose the PACA region to become your home owner or make a rental investment! It is one of the most touristic areas of France, especially appreciated for its coastline, but also for its hinterland. We have listed the top 5 cities to invest in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur to guide you in your real estate project.

1. Marseille

The city of Marseille is at the top of the list of cities where to invest in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. In addition to its attractive location by the sea and its cultural wealth, Marseille has a major advantage for those who wish to make a profitable rental investment. 

Indeed, the city has a large number of students, which makes it possible to purchase a studio or a T1 apartment without too much risk. Real estate prices in Marseille are rising and rather high. However, the market is promising with the emergence of new neighborhoods accompanied by new housing construction programs.

2. Aix-en-Provence 

Aix-en-Provence is second on the list of cities to invest in in the PACA region. This charming Provencal city, located near Marseille, benefits from a very dynamic labor pool. Its living environment, rich heritage, and university centers are all attractive to investors. With a growing population, 25% of which is made up of students, Aix-en-Provence is ideally suited to safe and profitable real estate investments, whether in studios or in larger shared apartments. It’s not surprising that real estate prices in Aix-en-Provence have risen by 26% in 5 years!

3. Nice 

The capital of the Côte d’Azur, Nice ranks third in the top 5 cities to invest in the PACA region. Situated between the sea and the mountains, Nice appeals to working people, seniors, and tourists alike. Buyers can thus make several types of investments in the prefecture of the Alpes-Maritimes. 

In Nice, one can build up a legacy to pass on to one’s children by purchasing a villa in the western residential district or bet on a profitable rental investment of up to 5% in the historic center near the Old Port. Not to mention rentals for students, even if they only represent 5% of the population. The downside is the high price of real estate in Nice, which will suit large budgets.

4. Toulon 

The prefecture of the Var ranks 4th among the cities where to invest in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur. As a seaside resort, port city, and student town, Toulon is committed to renovation and rehabilitation programs for its real estate. It has chosen to strengthen its attractiveness to a population that more than 50% is looking for a rental. 

In short, the city of Toulon offers great opportunities for profitable rental investment, whether seasonal or long-term. But first-time buyers and senior citizens looking for a primary or secondary residence will also find what they need. Despite their increase, real estate prices in Toulon remain affordable for the region compared to neighboring large coastal cities.

5. Avignon 

The top 5 cities to invest in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur end with the City of the Popes, renowned for its arts and entertainment festival, its ramparts, and its medieval bridge. Avignon offers several real estate investment opportunities for seasonal rentals or lovers of old buildings who wish to diversify their assets. 

With an efficient transportation network, the rehabilitation of its city center, and the extension of its urban area, the prefecture of Vaucluse is a choice location that hopes to make the acquisition of a house or an apartment profitable. The price of real estate in Avignon has increased by 18% over the last 5 years, which shows the dynamic market.

Looking for help?

Are you looking to buy a summer home or a home somewhere where it is always sunny? Are you bored of city life and are in need of fresh air and a change of atmosphere altogether? Then Perles Azur is here to help you find your next property on the Côte d’Azur. They are the expert and reliable option with over 15 years of experience in this industry. So, what are you waiting for? Give them a call and let them help you find the home of your dreams.