The name Île de France is not especially well known outside of France, but it’s certainly the most visited place in the country, if not the world. That’s because this region in north-central France surrounds the country's famous capital, as well as some of her other best known attractions. In Paris, of course, these include landmarks such as the Louvre and its star attraction the "Mona Lisa," the ever-elegant Eiffel Tower and the gothic Notre Dame Cathedral.
Cost of living
The Île de France is often ranked as among the most expensive parts of France to live in, about 1.35 times more than the average in the country. But that statistic needs a little unpacking. The cost of living in the Île de France varies significantly because the region is quite economically lopsided. It runs the gamut from France’s wealthiest to its most economically and socially challenged banlieues. In parts of Paris and suburbs such as Versailles and Neuilly you can find some of the wealthiest people in France and some of its most costly homes (aside from the one once inhabited by the Bourbons, of course!).
In contrast, Paris suburbs such as Seine-Saint-Denis are among the poorest in the country. And by reputation, are among the least desirable to live in. All this means that while Île de France is France’s most prosperous region, it still has many residents living in poverty: the official poverty rate was 15.9% in 2015.
A little further out but still in the commuter range are the agricultural areas of the Île de France. These are sparsely populated and also lean towards the well-heeled. The towns and villages often have lovely rivers running through them and usually a grand old chateau near the centre. But with a few exceptions (such as Neuilly), even the well-heeled areas are cheaper to live in than Paris. Homes are less expensive, as are groceries and meals out. Of course, those who settle in the further regions of the Île de France and work in Paris must figure in commuter costs.
Geography of the region
The Île de France is a lovely region of France with grand châteaux, farms. Some parts have a slightly rolling landscape but it doesn't get beyond hilly. The region’s fertile agricultural land is almost 80% of its area, with the rest divided by urban use and forests, woods, and waterways. The Seine river cuts through the region and is crisscrossed by three other rivers The Marne, Oise and Aisne. But this pastoral region is paired with an urban component: Due to the millions living in and around Paris, it is the most densely populated region in France.
Main attractions and destinations in Île de France
The main attractions of the Île de France (apart from its number one draw, Paris) are Versailles, Fontainebleau, the medieval Saint Denis Basilica, Giverny (The house and gardens of the impressionist painter Monet) the Rambouillet forest, and the town of Brie home to one of France’s greatest culinary offerings. And, since 1990, the Île de France has had another attraction, which despite harsh initial criticism, has become Europe’s most visited attraction: Eurodisney. “Chez Mickey" - as locals like to call it, offers fake castles for fake princes and princesses instead of the real ones that otherwise dot the region.
What is it like to live in & is it popular with expats
Living in the rural parts of the Île de France offers a good opportunity for the work life balance that is sacred to the French. One can imagine lovely, long weekend lunches in the garden of your home. The Yvesline, for example, is a draw for those with young families who want gardens for kids to play in.
But for expats, the Île de France typically means Paris and some of the nicer suburbs, such as Neuilly. Areas further afield tend to be popular with expats who’ve married someone French and integrated into the culture. Otherwise, the infrastructure for expats (English language or International schools, expat clubs and associations, and fellow English speakers) is far less available than in Paris. ( On the other hand, as there are likely fewer people who speak fluent English, you will have more incentive to become fluent.)
And if you are working in Paris or in the business hub of La Defense, you will likely need to get to know one of the 6 Transilien commuter train lines that will take you into the city.