The 5 Best Cities And Job Boards For Your Job Search In France
Bonjour! Are you thinking about moving to France and looking for advice on the best cities and job boards for your job search? If so, this blog is perfect for you. I am French and after living in cities such as London, Hong Kong and Bangkok, I have now relocated back to France. I advise clients on relocation, career strategy and interview preparation and have strong knowledge on the French market personally and as a recruiter and talent acquisition professional.
While Paris is typically the top choice for many candidates, it’s worth exploring other cities such as the ones mentioned below during your research, and depending on what you’re looking for.
France’s job market is diverse, with significant employment in the services sector, followed by industry and agriculture. Major industries include aerospace, automotive, technology, fashion, tourism, healthcare, and finance. The country is also seeing a growing emphasis on green jobs, with around 20% of the workforce employed in green-driven occupations, according to the OECD.
When considering the best cities for work in France, several stand out due to their economic opportunities, quality of life, and vibrant job markets. Here are some of the top cities to consider:
Paris is the most obvious choice, being the capital and a global hub for finance, technology, and creative industries. It offers a wealth of job opportunities, especially for those in corporate, tech, and creative sectors. The city’s rich cultural scene, world-class dining, and iconic landmarks make it an attractive place to live and work. However, it’s also one of the most expensive cities in France, so be prepared for higher living costs.
Some of my favourite things about Paris are the weekly food markets to buy fresh groceries and people-watching whilst having a croissant and a coffee at a café.
Lyon is known for its strong economy, particularly in the biotech, pharmaceutical, life sciences and digital technology industries. The city is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, with numerous incubators and accelerators supporting startups and fostering a dynamic business environment. It also boasts a high quality of life and excellent transport links. The city is famous for its cuisine, with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and a vibrant food scene. Lyon’s historical and architectural landmarks, combined with its modern amenities, make it a great place for both work and leisure.
Toulouse, often referred to as the aerospace capital of Europe, is ideal for those in the engineering and aerospace sectors. The presence of major companies like Airbus provides numerous job opportunities. Additionally, the presence of several research institutions and universities fosters a strong academic and professional environment, further enhancing job prospects. There are also significant opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, education, and customer service. The city’s strategic location in southwestern France, combined with its excellent transport links, makes it a key economic center in the region.
Toulouse is also known for its pleasant climate, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful architecture, making it a desirable place to live.
Bordeaux is renowned for its wine industry, which plays a significant role in the local economy, providing numerous jobs in viticulture and related sectors such as tourism. The city offers a harmonious blend of relaxed living and urban sophistication. Bordeaux’s beautiful Garonne River, vibrant arts scene, and some of the most prestigious wine appellations, such as Saint-Émilion, Médoc, Pessac-Léognan, and Sauternes make it an attractive option for professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Nice offers opportunities in tourism and tech, thanks to its location on the French Riviera. As one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, the city attracts over 5 million visitors annually, creating a steady demand for workers in hospitality, tourism, and related services. The city’s picturesque location on the French Riviera and its mild Mediterranean climate makes it an attractive place for both work and leisure.
In addition to tourism, Nice has a growing technology sector, with many companies focusing on information and communication technologies. Nice’s job market is also characterized by its multicultural environment, which values proficiency in multiple languages, especially during the busy tourist seasons.
Personally I love that from Nice, the rest of the South of France is easily accessible, especially the Côte d’Azur. In winter you can also reach ski stations within an hour’s drive!
Job Boards to Use in France
When searching for a new role in France, several job boards can be particularly useful: France Travail (the national employment service and a primary resource for job seekers across all sectors), Cadremploi (catering specifically to executives and senior professionals), HelloWork (job listings with startups as well as insights on company culture), and of course Indeed and LinkedIn.
If you enjoyed reading this and would like more support with your job search, relocation or adjusting to life in France, schedule a free coaching session with me.
I have lived and worked in the UK and I have been helping people find jobs here, build their expat career and relocate from across Europe, the US or Asia to France.
Learn more about my experience, expertise and book your free consultation with me from our team page here.
The Allora team is here to support you throughout your job search, interviews, offers and relocations whether you’re an expat arriving from your home country, living in France and ready to try a new city or exploring your options for your future life in France. We practice action-focused coaching that always moves you forward towards your goals, developing the best strategy for your situation and creating personalized plans that match your schedule.
Book your free session and take the first step to your new life in France!
Rachel Meda
Rachel has lived and worked in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Thailand and Paris, France while hiring global talent for Sales, Commercial, Finance, HR and other corporate positions at all levels of seniority.across the markets of Europe, Dubai, APAC, South America and South Africa. She speaks fluent French and English and specializes in expat careers, and relocation job searches.
