For a large number of UK residents, and also Dutch, the Dordogne is the perfect place to live.
There is plenty of space (a feature particularly appealing to UK and Dutch people), the climate is mild all year around and summers are consistently warm, the region is very beautiful with an endless list of places to explore, and there are large expatriate communities.
While property in the region is no longer available to buy at 'bargain basement' prices it is still usually very reasonably priced compared with similar properties in the UK, and it is possible to pay a very nice property for 300-400,000 euros.
For younger people - and many families with young children now make the move as well as retirees - there are ways of generating income but these are usually low-paying and often hard work. Common options include gites, bed and breakfast accommodation, home based computer businesses and working in the building trade. In truth, many families arrive and leave again after a few months or years, because of lack of money. Even living somewhere beautiful and escaping the rat-race loses its appeal a bit when you can't pay the bills!
The other challenge for arrivals from english speaking countries is the language. It is possible to manage with very little French language skills, but life will be less rewarding. It is difficult and discouraging learning French, and takes years rather than months to be able to hold a conversation properly with a French person.
But for all that, it is a great place to live, we live here, and wouldn't leave!
See also Buying a house in the Dordogne
See French Life blog for an occasional commentary from someone living among the French and Visit France for information about moving to France and buying or renovating a property in France.
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