What is the population of Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a metropolitan population of approximately 260,000 residents, making it France's ninth-largest city. This figure refers to the city proper, often called the "commune" of Bordeaux. When you consider the larger urban area, or aire d'attraction des villes, the population expands significantly to around 1.3 million people. This wider area includes suburbs and surrounding towns, which is important for understanding the full scope of the job market and housing options. For context, Paris has a city population of over 2 million and an urban area exceeding 12 million. So, Bordeaux truly offers that mid-sized city feel, where you get urban amenities without the overwhelming density of a mega-city. This size means you'll find excellent public transport, diverse restaurants, and cultural events, but also a more relaxed pace and easier access to the surrounding countryside. If you're looking for a balance between city life and manageability, Bordeaux's population size hits a sweet spot.