Guide to Aisne & Property for Sale in Department 02

Aisne is a department in the Hauts-de-France region of France. The department is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse economy. It was named after the Aisne River, which flows east to west and joins the Oise. The department borders Belgium to the northeast and is surrounded by the departments of Nord, Somme, Oise, Ardennes and Seine-et-Marne. The Aisne department has a fascinating history that dates back to the French Revolution. It was created in 1790 by merging parts of the former provinces of Île-de-France, Picardie, and Champagne. During WWI, the area suffered significant damage, and many of the old-growth forests were destroyed in battles. The French offensive against the Chemin des Dames in the spring of 1917 is also called the Second Battle of the Aisne.

Explore the Aisne & Properties in the Area

A Diverse Economy

Today, the Aisne's economy is diverse, with agriculture being a dominant sector, particularly in the cultivation of cereal crops. Beet sugar is one of the most important industrial crops in the area. The department is also known for its silk, cotton, and wool weaving. Saint-Gobain has been producing mirrors in the area since the 17th century. Guise is the agricultural centre of the northern area of Aisne. In addition, the southern part of the department is known as la Brie poilleuse, an area renowned for its dairy products and Brie cheese.

A Blend of Urban and Rural Life

The Aisne department is a mix of rural areas and working-class towns. Some families work in Paris or Île-de-France and choose to reside in the Aisne region. The department has a lot to offer to tourists as well. In 2007, Centre Parcs, a tourist accommodation complex, was built on the Lake of Ailette, close to many tourist attractions, including the Cathedral of Laon, the Chemin des Dames, and the Château de Coucy. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, the Aisne has something for everyone.

Key Information about the Aisne (02)

Main City/Prefecture: Laon
Nearest Airport: Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport
Population: Around 532,000 (as of the latest census)
Area: 7,369 sq. kilometres and 2,845 sq. miles
Landmark: Laon Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic cathedral perched atop a hill offering stunning panoramic views.
Number of Tourists per Year: Approx. 1 million, drawn by its historic battlefields, medieval architecture and natural parks like Parc Naturel Régional de l'Aisne.

Types of Properties for Sale in the Aisne

Located in the picturesque Picardy region, the Aisne features a diverse range of properties that reflect the area's history and rural charm. These include traditional farmhouses, longères, brick residences, contemporary homes, and period townhouses in towns like Soissons, Laon, or Saint-Quentin, catering to diverse preferences. The department also features modern residences, including single- and multi-story houses, alongside prestigious estates such as châteaux, which are ideal for those interested in experiencing a distinctive French lifestyle.

Property Prices in Aisne in 2025

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,268
Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €1,831
Price trends: –5% over the last 12 months, +9% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)