Moving to Royan Atlantique means choosing a truly gentle way of life. It means prioritizing a balance between personal life and professional goals. Between city, sea, and countryside, you'll quickly fall under the spell of this inspiring living environment. But changing your life is no small feat. So before dropping everything, it's worth taking the time to understand what makes Royan Atlantique unique.
Moving to Royan Atlantique – what you need to know
Before settling down in Royan Atlantique, it's essential to do your research. Consider seasonality, prepare to look for a job and housing, and discover available services. These are all steps that will help you settle in successfully and fully enjoy the quality of life the area offers.
Adapting to the local rhythm of life, between summer and winter
In summer, the atmosphere is lively, especially on the coast. From Meschers to La Palmyre via Royan, the tourist season is in full swing. But from autumn onwards, daily life becomes quieter. We move to a slower pace. However, local shops remain open and associations continue their activities. Royan is the dynamic city-center of the territory, the hinterland cultivates a peaceful atmosphere. It is also this contrast between season and off-season, seaside and retro-coastline, that you must keep in mind when thinking about settling here. Depending on the location chosen, life can be more or less active year-round.
Choosing where to live and finding accommodation
We don't live the same way in Royan, Saujon or Mortagne-sur-Gironde. Some towns are turned towards the sea, others towards nature or the village spirit. Choosing a place to live and a home also depends on your budget and needs. Whether it's to be closer to schools, work remotely, or live in the quiet countryside, there's bound to be a place that suits your needs.
Discover the different atmospheres of the region
Understanding the real estate market in Royan Atlantique
The coastline remains very popular, whether for the acquisition of a primary residence or for a rental investment. In fact, prices are affected. According to Figaro Real Estate, in Royan in August 2025, the median price per m² is approximately €3,720. However, prices remain reasonable compared to other coastal areas.
The further you get from the sea, the more prices become affordable, especially in rural communities in the south of the agglomeration. The population density is also lower there. Thus, municipalities like Arces sur Gironde, Cozes ou Corme-Lock have median prices that fluctuate around €2,000/€2,200 per m².
Furthermore, due to the large number of seasonal rentals, finding a year-round rental can be a real challenge, especially on the coast. With demand being high, You have to start early and make multiple contacts (agencies, online ads, word of mouth, etc.)
Working in Royan Atlantique
Changing region also means rethink your professional projectThe territory may seem calm at first glance, but on the employment side, several sectors are dynamic. We are of course thinking of the tourism and hotel and catering industry, very present on the coast, but also at the health needsor a craftsmanship visit us at the building visit us at the trade or even to personal servicesIn Royan Atlantique, you can choose to join a sector that is recruiting, start your own business, or even work remotely. All this, provided you have carefully considered your mobility, because here, the car is often a must.
Prepare your project and test before moving
Changing your life takes time. For the move to go smoothly, it's important to take the time to discover the area and ask yourself the right questions. For this, we recommend coming to do some scouting on site for a long weekend or a stay of a few weeks in a vacation location.
We take the opportunity to visit the the must-see sites, strolling around the neighborhoods, talking to the shopkeepers... Anything goes to get a real idea of the area! The ideal is to return out of season in the places we have identified to confirm our favorites and refine our search for settling in. It is also an opportunity to test the movements and to see how schools or health services operate.
You don't have to do everything alone. There are plenty of ways to get information and connect with those who already live there:
- forums and local Facebook groups
- testimonies from residents and newcomers
- tourist offices, coworking spaces, local associations
- welcome meetings for new residents organized by town halls
Key contacts for settling in Royan Atlantique
Find all the services to help you settle in the area: town halls, transport, waste management, etc.
Le Citizen Portal of the Royan Atlantique Urban Community also provides a form to find a reception or care method for your child (nursery, daycare, childminders' house, leisure center) and benefit from support in their efforts.
Everything you need to know before moving to Royan Atlantique
Which neighborhood should you choose to live in Royan?
It all depends on your lifestyle. The city center (around the central market) is lively, convenient, and close to shops. The Parc and Pontaillac neighborhoods offer chic, more residential atmospheres, with quick access to the beach. For more peace and quiet, you can head to the Chay district or the heights of Royan. Families also appreciate the areas around the Boulevard de la Côte de Beauté, which are well-connected and close to schools.
Where to live in Royan Atlantique according to your profile?
Whether you're a working person, a family, a remote worker, or a young retiree, there's a place for everyone. Royan and Saint-Georges-de-Didonne are attractive for their year-round amenities. Saujon and Médis offer a real village feel while remaining close to the coast. Meschers, Les Mathes, and Arvert are popular in the summer but remain lively for much of the year. Looking for peace and quiet? Head inland to Cozes, Semussac, or Mortagne-sur-Gironde.
What is the price per square meter in Royan and the surrounding area?
In August 2025, the median price per m² in Royan was approximately €3,780. On the coast, prices are higher, especially for houses close to the beach. Moving further inland, prices become more affordable. In the Royan Atlantique metropolitan area, the median price is €2,600/m². (Source: Figaro Immobilier)
How to get to Bordeaux or La Rochelle from Royan?
From Royan, take a connecting TER train to Saintes, then a train to Bordeaux (approximately 2.5 hours). For La Rochelle, take a TER train via Saintes or a direct bus (between 1.5 and 2 hours). These lines are extended in summer.
What are the public transport options in Royan Atlantique?
The agglomeration is served by the Cara'Bus bus network, which connects the main towns. Intercity lines also provide access to Saintes and Rochefort. On-demand transport is available in some rural areas.
Can you live without a car in Royan Atlantique?
It's possible, but it depends on where you live. In the city centers of Royan, Saint-Georges, or Saujon, you can easily do a lot on foot or by bike. Elsewhere, especially in more rural communities, the car remains essential for daily commutes.
