Why More American Buyers Are Choosing Bordeaux Over Paris

🇺🇸 American Buyers' Momentum Is Rising

In the past 18 months, Maxwell-Baynes | Christie’s International Real Estate has observed a sharp increase in interest from American buyers seeking property in Bordeaux.

Among recent examples :

• A tech executive from California searching for a vineyard-adjacent second home
• A young retired couple seeking a pied-à-terre with easy access to European destinations
• A Franco-American family relocating for quality of life and bilingual education options

" Many Americans come for the wine,” says co-founder Michael Baynes, “but they stay for the beauty, the space, the affordability—and the lifestyle they didn’t know they were missing."

Why Bordeaux ?

If Paris is the dream, Bordeaux is the best-kept secret. Thanks to high-speed rail, the capital is just two hours away, yet Bordeaux offers a refined alternative with more space, less stress, and significantly better value.

“Bordeaux feels like a scaled-down Paris with better weather, less stress—and dramatically more value.”

— Michael Baynes

Better Value, No Compromises

Even Bordeaux’s most prestigious neighborhoods rarely exceed €10,000/m², compared to nearly €50,000/m² in Paris.

In 2024, Valeria Plaisance sold a turnkey duplex apartment in central Bordeaux for just €8,240/m², illustrating the exceptional value Bordeaux offers.

Luxury Price Comparison (EUR/m²):CityLuxury Price (EUR/m²)New YorkUp to 50,000Paris (Daniel Féau)Up to 49,240Paris (avg top arrondissement)~42,000Bordeaux (2024)8,240Bordeaux (Golden Triangle)5,000–7,000

Lifestyle & Location Perks

Bordeaux is ideally situated between the surf beaches of the Atlantic, the legendary vineyards of Saint-Émilion, and the Pyrenees Mountains—all within 3 hours.

The region also offers :

• Michelin-starred dining
• International schools
• A rich cultural scene
• A growing community of digital nomads and remote professionals

American Buyers Interest Is More Than Tourism

American interest in Bordeaux extends well beyond tourism.

According to INSEE and local authorities:

• Bordeaux welcomes over 6 million visitors annually
• 300,000 to 500,000 are from the United States
• Many are exploring Bordeaux as a destination for investment, relocation, or extended stays

In nearby Saint-Émilion (UNESCO World Heritage Site), over 1 million tourists arrive annually—including approximately 50,000 to 80,000 Americans.

Nationwide, France hosted 4.5 million U.S. visitors in 2023, with U.S. property purchases in France rising 39% year-over-year.

Featured Listings

Bordeaux – Mansion near Jardin Public

• 363 m² with garden, wine cellar, garage
• €3,300,000View listing

Langoiran – “La Californie” Architectural Masterpiece

• 400 m² of sculptural design, vineyard views
• €3,150,000View listing

Cambes – Stone Manor Surrounded by Vineyards

• 6 bedrooms, pool, terraces, timeless elegance
• €1,890,000View listing

Lège-Cap-Ferret – Beachfront Villa with Ocean Views

• 6 bedrooms, wine cellars, panoramic terrace
• €8,925,000View listing

Cap Ferret – Petit Piquey Bay Villa

• 5 bedrooms, garden, classic charm
• €2,299,000View listing

About Maxwell-Baynes | Christie’s International Real Estate

Based in Bordeaux, Maxwell-Baynes is the exclusive Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate for Nouvelle Aquitaine France. We specialize in châteaux, vineyards, private estates, and iconic homes tailored to an international luxury clientele. Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or ready to invest in a lifestyle change, our multilingual team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us to begin your journey.

About the Author

This article was written by Valeria Plaisance, luxury property specialist at Maxwell-Baynes | Christie's International Real Estate. With a deep understanding of Bordeaux’s real estate market and a passion for exceptional service, Valeria is dedicated to helping international buyers navigate every step of their journey in southwest France. Her insights blend market expertise with personal experience, offering a human and informed perspective for anyone considering a life—or an investment—in Bordeaux.