France 2026: The Most Attractive Cities for European Doctors and Physiotherapists

📌 Key Takeaways:
In 2026, several French cities stand out for their strong medical demand, quality of life, and job opportunities. For European doctors and physiotherapists, some regions offer attractive salaries, easier access to housing, and structured administrative support via DREETS, professional orders, and ARS.

1. Why are some cities more attractive in 2026?

Medical shortages vary from region to region. In 2026, attractive cities combine:

• 📈 a strong need for doctors and physiotherapists,
• 💶 good salary conditions,
• 🏡 a reasonable cost of living,
• 🚆 accessibility and a pleasant living environment.

Available positions can be viewed here: positions for doctors and physiotherapists.

2. Toulouse: dynamism and high medical demand

Toulouse remains one of the most attractive cities for European practitioners due to its balance between quality of life and opportunities.

• 🏥 High demand for general practitioners, physiotherapists, and specialists
• 🌞 Excellent quality of life
• 🚆 Quick access to neighboring regions

3. Nantes: competitive salaries and growing needs

In 2026, Nantes stands out for a very dynamic job market in the healthcare sector.

• 📈 Hospitals and private centers are constantly recruiting
• 🏡 Moderate cost of living for a large city
• 🌳 City renowned for its living environment

4. Lyon: major metropolis, strong appeal for specialists

Lyon particularly attracts specialist doctors and physiotherapists due to the diversity of medical structures.

• 📊 Salaries based on strong competition between establishments
• 🏥 Numerous clinics and hospitals
• 🩺 Opportunities in radiology, cardiology, psychiatry

5. Rennes: an excellent compromise for European practitioners

With rapid development and a young population, Rennes becomes very attractive in 2026.

• 📈 High demand for physiotherapists
• 💶 Competitive salaries
• 🛏️ Housing more accessible than in the Paris region

6. Montpellier: preferred destination for physiotherapists

Montpellier remains a highly sought-after city thanks to its climate and well-structured medical environment.

• 👐 High demand for liberal physiotherapy practices
• 🌴 Exceptional quality of life
• ⚕️ Continuous development of the rehabilitation/sport sector

7. Why does the choice of city impact your settlement?

For European doctors and physiotherapists, choosing a suitable city facilitates:

• ✔ obtaining a position,
• ✔ finding housing,
• ✔ professional integration,
• ✔ family stability.

Guides to prepare your settlement: Euromotion practical guides

8. Role of French institutions in your settlement

Whatever city you choose, several administrative steps remain mandatory.

📌 Essential Organizations:
• DREETS: authorization to practice
• Order of Doctors / Order of Physiotherapists: mandatory registration
• ARS: integration into the chosen region

Order of Doctors: Official website

Order of Physiotherapists: Order of Masseur-Physiotherapists

9. Conclusion: French cities remain very attractive in 2026

For European doctors and physiotherapists, France continues to offer a wide choice of dynamic cities, with strong medical demand and excellent quality of life.

• ✔ Numerous opportunities
• ✔ Good remuneration in most regions
• ✔ Varied living environment according to preferences
• ✔ Structured administrative support

❓ FAQ — Attractive Cities in 2026

Which city offers the best salaries?

Large metropolises like Lyon or Toulouse often offer higher salaries due to competition among establishments.

Where do physiotherapists find a job the fastest?

In expanding cities like Rennes, Montpellier, or in under-served areas.

Do administrative procedures vary by city?

No, the DREETS + Order procedure is the same. Only the ARS changes by region.

Is it easier to find housing in certain cities?

Yes, Rennes, Montpellier, or Nantes are more accessible than Lyon or Paris. Guide: housing guide

🚀 Ready to find the ideal city for your settlement?

Euromotion Medical supports you for free to choose the best region according to your profile, goals, and preferences.

• 🔎 See job offers: available offers
• 📘 Practical guides: prepare your settlement
• 💼 Find a position via: Mediirect
• 📩 Direct contact: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
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