Where to buy an apartment in Arras

Arras continues to attract visitors with its rich heritage, unique in France, picturesque squares and diverse neighborhoods. For future buyers, the city offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its own characteristics and assets. Whether you’re looking for a lively living environment, a residential setting or a neighborhood in full renewal, Arras has something to meet your expectations. This article aims to guide you through the most interesting neighborhoods for buying an apartment (or even a detached house in Arras), taking into account current dynamics, including those of the priority neighborhoods defined by the City Contract.

Downtown : Historic charm and urban dynamism

Arras town center is undoubtedly the city’s most emblematic district. Bordered by famous squares such as the Grand’Place and Place des Héros, it is the historic and cultural heart of Arras. Baroque houses, cafés, restaurants and local shops give the district a lively, attractive atmosphere. Living in the city center means optimal access to services and public transport, making getting around quick and easy. However, this convenience comes at a cost. The real estate market in this area is competitive, with high prices due to ongoing demand from both residents and investors. What’s more, the dense population and influx of tourists can sometimes pose traffic and parking problems. Despite these drawbacks, downtown remains a preferred choice for those seeking a lively, urban lifestyle rich in history.

The “faubourg d’Amiens” and the “hauts blancs monts” : Space and tranquility

For those seeking a quieter, more spacious living environment, the Faubourg d’Amiens and Hauts Blancs Monts neighborhoods are options to be seriously considered. These residential neighborhoods, composed mainly of single-family homes with gardens, offer a peaceful environment ideal for families. Faubourg d’Amiens, for example, is characterized by strong social cohesion and community spirit. Residents enjoy relative tranquility while having access to schools, parks, a beautiful military cemetery and other local amenities. Les Hauts Blancs Monts, on the other hand, attracts with its green spaces and more relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. Nevertheless, these neighborhoods, while pleasant, can present challenges, especially when it comes to transportation. Services and shops are not always in the immediate vicinity, and homes, while charming, often require regular maintenance. Nevertheless, these areas remain very popular with families and people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city center while remaining connected to urban life.

Neighborhood renewal : An opportunity to be seized

Neighborhoods undergoing urban transformation also offer attractive investment opportunities for people wishing to buy or simply live in Arras, close to the city center.

The bonnettes – baudimont – blancs monts district: A hub of change

TheBonnettes – Baudimont – Blancs Monts district is one of the main areas covered by the City Contract. This neighborhood, once marked by economic and social difficulties, is now benefiting from major urban renewal projects.
The program includes the rehabilitation of housing, the improvement of public spaces, and the reinforcement of structuring facilities. Buying an apartment in this district could prove a wise choice for those wishing to invest for the medium or long term. Urban renewal promises increased property value and a better quality of life for residents. What’s more, the district is well connected to the city center, making it easy to get around.

The 4 As district in Achicourt : Between tradition and modernity

Not in Arras itself, but located in the immediate vicinity of Arras, the 4 As district in Achicourt is another priority area under the Contrat de Ville. This residential neighborhood, a mix of old houses and more recent buildings, is undergoing a major redevelopment. The urban renewal project aims to open up the area and diversify the housing offer, while strengthening local infrastructures. Achicourt is particularly popular with those seeking to combine proximity to Arras with a more tranquil living environment. Property prices are still affordable, making it an attractive choice for young families and first-time buyers. Efforts to modernize the neighborhood, combined with an active community, promise a promising future for the area.

Saint-Michel Goudemand : A neighborhood in the making

The Saint-Michel Goudemand residence, finally a stone’s throw from the Grand’Place, was long considered a neighborhood in difficulty, but recent years have seen a veritable metamorphosis of the area. The vast renovation program that has been undertaken has completely changed the face of the neighborhood. Social housing has been modernized, providing better insulation, greater comfort and a more contemporary look. Public spaces, once neglected, have been redeveloped to create relaxation and leisure areas, making the neighborhood more family-friendly. In addition, new infrastructure, such as schools and community service centers, has been put in place, strengthening the sense of community and improving the overall living environment. Beyond the structural improvements, the neighborhood now benefits from better access to amenities. Residents of Saint-Michel Goudemand can enjoy the proximity of supermarkets, local shops, and essential services such as pharmacies and doctors’ surgeries. These amenities, combined with recent renovations, make the neighborhood particularly attractive to investors. Buying an apartment in this rapidly evolving area represents a great opportunity, as property values are likely to rise as the quality of life continues to improve, attracting a dynamic new population and contributing to the revitalization of the entire neighborhood.

“Faubourg Ronville-Université” : Close to the student hustle and bustle

The Faubourg Ronville – Université neighborhood, close to the University of Artois, is ideal for young adults and students. The area is characterized by a high concentration of student-friendly housing, with a dynamic atmosphere and lively nightlife. The immediate proximity of the university makes the area very attractive for investors wishing to invest in rental property, and this has been the case since the creation of the faculty in the late 80s. In addition, the density of the population and the relatively few night-time activities in the vicinity mean that the area does not create a nuisance, particularly in terms of noise. So Faubourg Ronville remains a top choice for those looking for a young, lively neighborhood, a little removed from the hustle and bustle of Arras’ squares.

To conclude on the Arras neighborhoods to consider when buying an apartment

Arras is distinguished by the diversity of its neighborhoods, each offering unique opportunities to buy an apartment. The town center will appeal to lovers of urban life and history, while Faubourg d’Amiens and Hauts Blancs Monts will suit families looking for calm and space. Neighborhoods undergoing renewal, supported by the Contrat de Ville, offer excellent medium- and long-term investment prospects. Finally, the Faubourg Ronville – Université district is perfect for those seeking a dynamic lifestyle close to student amenities. Depending on your priorities (whether living environment, accessibility or investment opportunities) Arras has a neighborhood that can meet your expectations. This diversity makes Arras a great place to buy real estate, whether you’re looking to live or invest.

R.C.