City Profile
Montauban, Occitanie
France · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Montauban, a city steeped in history and characterized by its distinctive pink brick architecture, is the capital of the Tarn-et-Garonne department in Occitanie, France. Founded in 1144 by Count Alphonse Jourdain of Toulouse, it is one of the oldest bastide towns in the region, known for its strategic location on the right bank of the Tarn River. The city offers a grounded and authentic slice of Occitanie life, appealing to those who seek a slower pace without being completely isolated from urban amenities. Its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Place Nationale and the Ingres Museum, combined with a manageable scale, makes daily life intuitive and enjoyable for its residents.
Montauban has successfully blended its historical charm with modern living, attracting a diverse population. The city is recognized for its quality of life, offering a comfortable social environment, partly due to a notable expat community. It serves as a regional hub, providing essential services and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The city's commitment to preserving its heritage while fostering a vibrant community makes it a desirable place to live in southwestern France.
Occitanie, located in southern France, is a diverse region known for its varied landscapes, ranging from Mediterranean beaches to the Pyrenees mountains, and a rich cultural heritage. Its economy is robust and diverse, with major industries including aeronautics and space, agriculture (especially wine production), tourism, and technology. The climate is generally warm and sunny, with over 300 days of sunshine annually in coastal areas, while inland and mountainous regions experience more varied weather conditions. Living in Occitanie is generally considered more affordable than in many other parts of France, offering a relaxed, southern European lifestyle with access to fresh local produce and a strong sense of community.
How this 61/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 80 / 100 | 80.0 | 30% | 24.0 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 70.0 | 81.3 | 25% | 20.3 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $28,462 Income needed to live here: $35,000 Unemployment rate: 7.9% | 14.0 | 20% | 2.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.63% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 45.4 | 15% | 6.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 73 / 100 | 73.0 | 10% | 7.3 |
| Overall score | 61.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=79), last refreshed
16 August 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Montauban is considerably more approachable than in larger French cities like Paris or Lyon, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability in France. While specific cost of living indices for Montauban are not readily available, data on rent and general expenses suggest a more budget-friendly environment. For instance, basic utilities for an average apartment cost around $208 per month.
Housing costs, particularly rent, are a significant factor in Montauban's affordability. The average monthly rent for an apartment in Montauban is approximately $716, which is notably lower than in major metropolitan areas. Food and transportation costs also contribute to a more manageable budget, allowing residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with larger urban centers. This affordability, however, comes with the trade-off of a smaller professional ecosystem and a quieter social scene compared to bustling metropolises.
Income
Salary Insights
Montauban's economy is primarily driven by tourism, hospitality, and manufacturing, with additional strengths in automotive, technology, and aerospace sectors. The city's labor market is considered strong, offering various opportunities within these key industries. The Centre Hospitalier de Montauban is also a significant employer, contributing to the local economy through healthcare services.
The city boasts a robust startup ecosystem, supported by local universities, skilled talent, a favorable business environment, and solid infrastructure. This environment fosters new ventures and contributes to economic growth. While specific job growth rates are not available, the overall economic score of 73 out of 100 indicates a healthy and resilient economic climate. The average gross annual salary in Montauban is estimated at around $40,017, providing a reasonable income relative to the local cost of living.
The average salary in Montauban is $40,017 per year. You would need approximately $35,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Montauban is relatively convenient, with a functional public transport system and a highly walkable city center. The Transports du Grand Montauban operates a network of urban and peri-urban bus lines, connecting residents to various parts of the agglomeration, including the city center, markets, train station, and commercial zones. Regional car and train services also link Montauban to surrounding towns and major cities like Toulouse, with train journeys to Toulouse taking approximately 37 minutes.
The city center is compact and features pedestrian-friendly streets, making it ideal for exploration on foot. Bike rental services are also available, encouraging active transportation. While a car is useful for exploring the wider Tarn-et-Garonne department, the city's infrastructure supports a medium level of car dependency, with public transport and walkability being viable options for local movement.
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