The major cities in Auvergne to buy
Auvergne is not just about its volcanoes and pastoral landscapes! It features vibrant cities offering a fulfilling urban life and an attractive real estate market. For those seeking amenities, a cultural life, and easy access to services, head to two key destinations.
Clermont-Ferrand: urban strengths and real estate
- Major economic hub of the region
- Universities and numerous research centers
- Beautiful architecture and a lively city center
- Diverse real estate market, from studios to bourgeois houses
Clermont-Ferrand attracts professionals, families, and investors with its dynamism and a certain quality of life. The price-to-value ratio remains advantageous compared to nearby metropolises.
On Green Acres, the real estate market in Clermont-Ferrand offers an average property price around €311,000 for a surface of 153 m² (approximately €2,033/m²).
In the Puy-de-Dôme department, 8,306 transactions were recorded in 2024 for an average price of €153,000, and an average area of 87 m².
The market remains stable with a slight price decrease of -1% compared to 2023, proving certain attractiveness and competitiveness. The international clientele, particularly Dutch, remains especially present.
Vichy: urban strengths and real estate
- Famous for its spas and heritage
- Allier riverbanks conducive to relaxation and sports
- An attractive real estate market for retirees and Parisians seeking tranquility
The city of Vichy charms with its elegance, parks, and cultural events. Its chic environment increasingly attracts buyers. The average real estate prices in Vichy stands at €485,000 for a generous surface area of 340 m² (an average of €1,426/m²).
In the Allier department, the average price of a property in 2024 is €112,000 for about 95 m², and the market has seen a 2% increase compared to the previous year, reflecting consistent demand and growing appeal, especially among foreign clients, primarily Dutch and Belgian.
Living in the mountains of Auvergne
The volcanoes of Auvergne and the mountains offer a unique setting for lovers of wide open spaces. The region is full of perched villages and welcoming resorts.
Ski resorts and welcoming mountain villages
- Le Mont-Dore and Super-Besse for a family resort atmosphere ⛷️
- Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise or Chastreix for authentic charm
If you dream of a seasonal getaway or a second home in the mountains, real estate in Super-Besse offers an average of €504,000 for 152 m², while properties in Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise show an average of €537,000 for a surface of 362 m².
These family-friendly resorts and authentic villages are perfect for nature lovers and mountain sports enthusiasts.
Natural settings for outdoor lovers
- Immediate proximity to natural parks (Volcanoes Park, Livradois-Forez…)
- Numerous outdoor activities: hiking, mountain biking, paragliding… 🚵♂️
Choosing the mountains means favoring tranquility, the beauty of landscapes, and direct access to nature, both summer and winter.
Living in the countryside of Auvergne
Far from the hustle and bustle of big cities, the plains and hills of Auvergne offer another way of living. There are small, warm towns and real rural sweetness.
Small towns and villages for a peaceful life
- Salers, Charroux, Montpeyroux: among the most beautiful villages in France
- Dynamic and supportive communities
For those seeking authenticity and tranquility in a picturesque setting, real estate in the village of Salers averages at €304,000 for 489 m², reflecting particularly attractive prices per square meter.
In Cantal, the average price reaches €107,000 for a surface of 92 m², and nearly a quarter of the transactions involve secondary residences, illustrating buyers’ attraction to the Auvergne countryside.
Real estate generally more affordable
- Prices per m² are often very attractive 🏡
- Great opportunities for stone houses, farmhouses, or country estates
Rural Auvergne remains a land of great deals, also appreciated by a loyal foreign clientele (notably Belgians in Cantal).
Tips for buying in Auvergne
Succeeding in your real estate purchase in Auvergne requires clarifying your project and analyzing the local market.
Main residence or second home: define your project
- Determine your needs: year-round living, vacation use, or rental investment
- Consider accessibility (transport, shops, schools…)
Study local prices and market trends before investing
- Compare sectors and their strengths
- Observe price trends and demand for sought-after property types
Assistance from local experts and monitoring reliable indicators can be invaluable for seizing the best opportunities and securing your project.
