Biarritz is one of France’s most beloved coastal cities, a mix of elegance, surf culture, Basque identity and year-round natural beauty. Once the seaside playground of European royalty, today Biarritz attracts a blend of families, digital professionals, retirees, and surf-loving expats seeking a relaxed but refined lifestyle.
Whether you’re relocating for the outdoorsy way of life, the food scene, or simply the sunshine and ocean air, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about living in Biarritz: neighbourhoods, cost of living, transport, lifestyle, and what it’s really like for expats.
Table of Contents
Best neighbourhoods to live in Biarritz
Le Quartier Impérial
The most prestigious area of Biarritz, centred around the Hôtel du Palais. Expect elegant Anglo-Norman, Art Deco and neo-Basque villas, many now converted into luxury apartments. With La Grande Plage and Miramar on your doorstep, it’s perfect if you want refined, quiet living with ocean views and easy access to boutiques.
Le Centre-Ville and Les Halles
The lively heart of the city, ideal for a tout à pied lifestyle. From La Grande Plage to Port Vieux, everything is walkable: cafés, wine bars, artisan shops and the famous Les Halles market. Apartments often come with charming city or sea views. This is the place for expats who love energy, food culture and a strong Basque atmosphere.
Le Quartier Saint-Charles
A village-like neighbourhood close to Miramar Beach and the golf course. Its central square is lined with gourmet shops, restaurants and daily amenities. Known for its beautiful period homes and calm residential feel, it’s one of the best choices for families wanting elegance, convenience and proximity to the beach.
Le Quartier Bibi-Beaurivage
A former fishing quarter turned trendy hotspot. Expect a friendly community, surf culture at Côte des Basques, and plenty of wine bars and small restaurants. With charming townhouses and beach access, it’s ideal for expats wanting authenticity and a relaxed neighbourhood feel.
Le Quartier du Phare
A peaceful, green area with breathtaking views over the Atlantic and the Pyrenees. Home to Belle Époque villas and landscaped gardens, plus direct access to Le Phare golf course. Perfect for families seeking privacy, beauty and space.
Le Quartier de la Milady
Known for its easy-going lifestyle between Milady Beach and Ilbarritz Golf. Apartments with terraces and contemporary villas dominate the area, a great fit for those who want calm, nature and year-round holiday vibes.
Le Parc d’Hiver
A refined residential neighbourhood with early-20th-century homes and leafy gardens, just minutes from the centre. Loved by year-round residents seeking tranquillity and elegant architecture.
Cost of living in Biarritz
Biarritz is one of the most desirable cities in France and prices reflect that. While daily life can be affordable, housing is significantly more expensive than the national average.
Housing and property prices
- Average property price: ~7,999 €/m²
- Apartments: ~7,551 €/m²
- Houses: ~9,641 €/m²
- Average rent: ~18 €/m²
Biarritz is around 5% more expensive than the French average, and prices jump higher in summer due to tourism.
If you want more affordability, consider nearby towns like Anglet, Bayonne, Bidart or Guéthary, all offering excellent lifestyles at lower cost.
Getting around Biarritz
From January 2025, the TXIK TXAK transport network becomes denser and better connected, making movement across the Basque Coast easier than ever.
What’s new in 2025
- Tram’bus T1 every 10 minutes
- Four main bus lines (3, 5, 6, 8) running every 15–20 minutes
- Four complementary lines with extended schedules
- Free neighbourhood shuttles (N4, N5) connecting districts to the city centre
Subscription prices
- 38 €/month
- 31 €/month with annual payment
Add to this the regional trains, fast access to Biarritz Airport, and France’s high-speed TGV, and the city feels surprisingly well connected for its size.
Lifestyle in Biarritz
Living in Biarritz means choosing nature, culture, gastronomy and a Basque identity that feels both deeply rooted and effortlessly modern.
What defines daily life here
- Surf culture at Côte des Basques
- Outdoor living with coastal hiking paths, mountain excursions, ocean sports
- A cosmopolitan but relaxed community of surfers, creatives, families, students and international residents
- A strong food culture: pintxos, Basque tapas, seafood, local markets, wine bars
- Year-round cultural life with festivals, exhibitions and events
- Closeness to Spain (25 km): San Sebastián’s food scene is a short drive away
Biarritz balances elegance with informality, a rare combination that’s a huge part of its appeal.
Expat life in Biarritz
Biarritz, and more broadly the French Basque Country, has seen a surge in interest from American expats, even ranking as the #2 must-visit French destination in 2025 according to the New York Times.
Useful community resource: Facebook Group – Expats Bayonne Anglet Biarritz
Expect a warm, international atmosphere without losing the authenticity of Basque culture.
Why Biarritz might be the perfect city for you
Biarritz may be the right fit if you want:
- A high-quality, outdoors-focused lifestyle
- Beaches, surf and mountains within minutes
- A vibrant but relaxed atmosphere
- Elegant architecture and premium neighbourhoods
- A cosmopolitan community with strong Basque identity
- Mild weather, great food and excellent transport links
It’s not the cheapest place to live but the quality of life is exceptional.
FAQ: Living in Biarritz
Is Biarritz expensive?
Yes, particularly housing. Expect prices well above national averages.
Is Biarritz good for families?
Very. Safe, sporty, outdoors-focused, with excellent schooling options nearby.
Can you live in Biarritz without a car?
Yes, especially with the upgraded TXIK TXAK network, though a car helps for regional travel.
Is English widely spoken?
In tourism and hospitality, yes. But daily life is easier with French (and sometimes Basque!).
What is the weather like?
Mild year-round, warm summers, some winter rain, perfect for outdoor living.
Still deciding where to move?
Explore our other city deep-dives to compare neighbourhoods, housing costs and expat life across France.
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