Updated August 2026. Market indicators and worked examples are educational, not guaranteed returns or tax advice.
Rental yield in Carcassonne can remain attractive because entry prices are accessible and many households rent, but the result depends on the total purchase cost, achievable rent, vacancy, operating expenses, energy performance and resale value.
In July 2026, MeilleursAgents indicated an average property price of about €1,681/m² across all property types. SeLoger indicated an average rent close to €11/m² in January 2026. These citywide figures are reference points only.
How to calculate rental yield
Gross yield equals annual rent divided by the total acquisition cost, multiplied by 100. The total cost should include the purchase price, notary fees, work and furniture where required.
| Illustrative project | Total cost | Monthly rent | Indicative gross yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renovated one-bedroom flat | €95,000 | €500 | 6.3% |
| Two-bedroom flat | €135,000 | €680 | 6.0% |
| Family house | €205,000 | €900 | 5.3% |
To approach a return before tax, deduct non-recoverable service charges, property tax, insurance, management, maintenance and an allowance for vacancy. Personal taxation and finance then depend on each owner.
Where to invest in Carcassonne
Bastide Saint-Louis
The centre offers shops, services and urban life. One- and two-bedroom flats can suit year-round tenants, but the street, light, building condition, service charges and DPE make a substantial difference.
Trivalle and the medieval Cité
These areas benefit from tourism and can suit furnished or short-term letting. Check the co-ownership rules, parking, management cost and formalities before purchasing.
Residential areas and nearby villages
Family houses may show a lower headline yield than a small flat but can offer lower tenant turnover and a more long-term strategy. Schools, shops and access are central to demand.
Long-term or short-term rental?
| Strategy | Advantages | Points to check |
|---|---|---|
| Unfurnished long-term | Simpler management and stability | DPE, works and a sometimes lower yield |
| Furnished long-term | Potentially higher rent for some smaller homes | Furniture, turnover and taxation |
| Short-term tourism | Potentially higher high-season revenue | Seasonality, management, commissions, rules and tax |
Short-term rental data in 2026
Different market observatories use different platforms, definitions and periods. Their figures therefore vary. Airbtics reported a median occupancy of 56%, a median nightly rate of €84 and median annual revenue of €18,000 for February 2025 to January 2026. AirDNA reported about 48% occupancy of available nights and roughly €9,500 annual revenue for the twelve months to June 2026. AirConcierge published an estimated 31.7% occupancy and annual revenue of €15,541 in March 2026.
AirDNA originally published amounts in US dollars. The French article converted them into euros at the European Central Bank reference rate of 28 July 2026 and rounded them. These market indicators do not describe a specific studio, house with a pool or property available only in summer.
Worked short-term rental example
Consider a fictional renovated one-bedroom flat of 35–45 m², equipped for two to four guests and within walking distance of a central tourist area. Total acquisition, work and furniture cost: €120,000.
| Scenario | Nights | Average nightly rate | Gross revenue | Gross yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cautious | 120 | €75 | €9,000 | 7.5% |
| Mid-range | 175 | €84 | €14,700 | 12.3% |
| Dynamic | 205 | €100 | €20,500 | 17.1% |
If operating expenses are assumed at 30% with direct management, the mid-range scenario leaves a theoretical €10,290 before mortgage payments and tax, equal to 8.6% of total cost. With 45% expenses for substantially delegated management, it leaves €8,085, or 6.7%. These are teaching assumptions, not Carcassonne averages or guaranteed net income.
Costs investors often forget
- platform, payment and management commissions;
- cleaning, linen, consumables and guest support;
- electricity, water, heating, cooling and internet;
- insurance, accounting and possible business taxes;
- furniture replacement, repairs and breakages;
- empty periods and lower off-season rates;
- property tax, co-ownership work and non-recoverable charges.
The exit strategy matters
A high theoretical yield does not compensate for a difficult address or a home that will be hard to resell. Owners should compare the cost of future work, the current value, rental performance and the value after renovation. My Carcassonne valuation guide explains the local factors that automated figures miss.
Frequently asked questions
What gross yield should an investor target?
There is no guaranteed rate. A long-term letting simulation around 5–6.5% gross may be a useful starting reference, but expenses, work, vacancy and tax determine the real result.
Is short-term rental always more profitable?
No. Revenue can be higher, while management, seasonal vacancy, utilities, cleaning, commissions and regulatory risk can also be much higher.
Do you already own a rental property?
Before deciding to hold, renovate or sell, establish its current local value.
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