Discover the cheapest village in France - where houses go for €552 per square meter

For many people, owning a home feels like an unattainable dream, as high down payments and large loans can quickly become overwhelming.

However, according to a recent study published on SeLoger.fr, Romain-sur-Meuse in the Haute-Marne region challenges that perception, with an average property price of around €552 per square metre — roughly five to six times lower than the national average and about 22 times lower than in Paris.

At the lower end of the market, some homes in this small village of 91 residents can sell for as little as €244 per square metre. 

Many of these properties are listed as habitable, requiring little to no renovation, and often include features such as double glazing, a garage, and a garden.

As explained by Anaïs Otabide, a real estate agent at the Orpi agency in Chaumont in a recent interview with The Connexion: 

“We have many properties around 200 euros per square metre. For example, I currently have a house for sale in Clinchamp (Haute-Marne region) for €49,000, with 250 square metres of living space. It is habitable, with land, a garage, and double glazing.”

She also added that this was not an isolated case. “Many of the properties in this price range are truly habitable. You can move in tomorrow.”

In the last three years, she has sold 14 houses in the area. According to her, “many of these properties are ready to live in immediately.”

In fact, her most recent one was sold for €40,000. It was a 125 square metre property, with land, double glazing, and central heating, which came to approximately €340 per square metre.

Who are the buyers?

According to Anaïs Otabide, a significant proportion of buyers are foreigners, particularly Belgians, Dutch, and Germans. Dutch buyers are especially drawn to the region because of the large plots of land available, which are rare in their home country.

These buyers are often attracted by the region’s peaceful environment, green landscapes, and spacious properties.

Quality of life and advantages

In general, the main appeal of these villages is the quality of life. Residents enjoy a quiet, rural environment with little noise, minimal traffic, and no neighbourhood disputes. Shops and essential services are only a short drive away.

For those seeking a second home or a retreat from urban life, the area offers space, tranquillity, and a strong connection to nature.

Downsides to consider

However, there are also significant disadvantages.

Employment opportunities are limited compared to urban areas. As a result, the region is more suitable for second-home buyers than permanent residents who need local work opportunities.

Families may also face challenges, particularly regarding education, as schools and higher education institutions are located in larger nearby towns.

Healthcare access is also limited, with fewer doctors and medical facilities in the immediate area.

Remote work and future prices

Despite the rise of remote work since the COVID-19 pandemic, Anaïs Otabide does not expect property prices to increase significantly in the near future.

Housing characteristics

Most properties in the area are old village houses. Many are heated using oil systems and therefore have low energy efficiency ratings.

However, for secondary residences, energy performance is often less of a concern, as these homes are not occupied year-round.