Guide to Cher & Properties for Sale in Department 18

Cher is a department in France's central region, established in March 1790 during the French Revolution. It is one of the original 83 departments and was predominantly formed from the former province of Berry and the adjacent department of Indre. As a result, the inhabitants of Cher are called 'Berrichons'. The department is bordered by six other departments: Indre, Loir-et-Cher, Loiret, Nièvre, Allier, and Creuse. It is part of the current administrative region of Centre-Val de Loire and covers approximately 7,235 square kilometres. Cher has a population of about 314,000 people. Cher's administrative capital, Bourges, is a city steeped in history and culture. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of Saint Étienne, one of the city's major attractions.

UNESCO Heritage Sites in Cher

The department is renowned for its stunning landscapes, such as the vineyards of Sancerre and the Loire Valley. These locations are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and attract many tourists. Cher boasts a rich history, with museums, monuments, and landmarks that offer a glimpse into its past.

Economic Landscape

Cher's economy is based on a combination of agriculture, viticulture, and industry. The region is renowned for its vineyards in Sancerre and Menetou-Salon, which produce some of the finest Sauvignon Blanc wines in the world. These wines, paired with local goat cheeses like Crottin de Chavignol, are central to Cher's gastronomy. Traditional dishes such as pâté berrichon (a meat pie with eggs) and poirat (a pear pie) highlight the department's culinary heritage.

Outdoor Activities and Cultural Events

The Cher River, along with numerous lakes and forests, makes the area a paradise for outdoor activities. Cycling, hiking, and boating are popular, as are cultural events in Bourges, like the Printemps de Bourges music festival, which attracts large crowds each spring. Cher offers a delightful mix of culture, history and scenic beauty, making it a captivating destination within the Loire Valley.

Key Information about the Cher (18)

Main City/Prefecture: Bourges
Nearest Airport: Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport or Paris-Orly Airport
Population: Around 300,000 (as of the latest census)
Area: 7,235 sq. kilometres and 2,793 sq. miles
Landmark: Bourges Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Gothic architecture and stained glass.
Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. One million visitors attracted by its historic towns, vineyards, and medieval heritage.

Types of Properties for Sale in Cher

Discover Berry's gentle heart, where history, charm, and rural beauty unite. In Cher, stone farmhouses, manors, and modern homes blend into hill and vineyard landscapes. The region offers a diverse property market that appeals to heritage lovers and modern buyers. Cher's housing reflects its rural roots and evolving lifestyles, balancing historic architecture, countryside, and value, ideal for families and those seeking a heritage-modern blend.

Common Property Styles in the Department

Longères – Typical country houses, usually long and rectangular and on one level, built in stone and full of rustic character.
Farmhouses & rural estates – Traditional properties with barns or outbuildings suitable for renovation or conversion into gîtes.
Stone houses – Found throughout the region, known for authenticity, thick walls, and timeless charm.
Townhouses – These properties range from compact village homes to spacious multi-storey townhouses.
Contemporary houses – Modern designs with open spaces, gardens and energy-efficient features.
Wooden houses – Eco-friendly options in rural areas combine natural materials with a warm aesthetic.
Châteaux, manors & prestige properties – Grand estates and period residences, often on extensive grounds.

Property Prices in the Cher in 2026

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,294 (source: Le Figaro - April 2026)
Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €2,150 (source: Le Figaro - April 2026)
Price trends: +9% over the last 12 months, +37% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Cher

Average House Price in Bourges: €1,701 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Vierzon: €1,010 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro Immobilier)

Browse our Properties for Sale in Cher

Explore our selection of houses, village homes, villas and countryside properties for sale in the Cher area of the Loire Valley. These real estate listings are updated weekly by our trusted local agents. Please get in touch with us to arrange property visits or to discuss your search criteria.