Agen, France

Capital City

Living costs are significantly lower than major French cities, but a 12% unemployment rate means job hunting is tougher than the national average. This mid-sized prefecture of 32,801 residents straddles the Garonne River between Bordeaux and Toulouse, with the historic center concentrated on the eastern bank.

The city's medieval character remains intact through landmarks like the unusual double-naved Agen Cathedral and the Saint Hilaire church, while the modern economy revolves around the UPSA pharmaceutical plant. For American expats, the transport links are solid - Paris is just over 3 hours by TGV train, and the local airport offers direct flights to Paris Orly six days weekly. The town's rugby obsession provides ready-made community integration through SU Agen matches, though you'll need to develop a taste for the local prunes, celebrated in an August festival that's more rock concert than fruit fair.