Guide to Oise & Property for Sale in Department 60

Discover Oise - Houses & Lifestyle in Oise

Situated just 35 km north of Paris, the Oise department is a popular weekend and vacation destination for Parisians, who come here to enjoy the miles of forests, peaceful countryside walks, and magical castles. Oise is in the Hauts-de-France region; it was one of the original 83 departments created during the Revolution in 1790. It borders the departments of Somme, Seine-et-Marne, Aisne, Val-d'Oise, Eure, and Seine-Maritime. By far the most popular destination among locals, holidaymakers, and weekenders is the Compiègne Forest, which spans 15,000 hectares and features over 100 kilometres of cycle paths. The cycle route between Saint-Jean-aux-Bois and Pierrefonds is particularly popular with families, not least because it leads to the impressive Pierrefonds medieval castle, which has been featured in films and TV shows, including The Man in the Iron Mask, and the BBC’s Merlin.

A Taste of History in Chantilly

Another fairytale destination is Chantilly, which boasts its own Renaissance-style castle housing one of the largest art collections in France outside the Louvre, featuring works by Raphael, Ingres, and Delacroix. It is well known to equestrians thanks to its prestigious racecourse, and the area around Chantilly hosts the largest racehorse training community in France. There is even a museum dedicated to horses, the Living Museum of the Horse.

Heritage and Style in Beauvais

When it comes to beautiful places, visitors to Oise are spoilt for choice. The city of Beauvais is renowned for its striking Gothic Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Beauvais, and the ancient streets surrounding it feature buildings dating back to the 12th century. Beauvais’s other claim to fame is as the birthplace of fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy, founder of the House of Givenchy.

Hidden Gems of Oise

There are numerous picturesque towns and villages to discover in Oise, including Gerberoy, which is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Others of note nearby are Lachapelle and Songeons, while a little further south are the quaint historic settlements of Chaumont-en-Vexin, Reilly, and Montjavoult. Weekly markets in these traditional communities are the perfect place to stock up on locally produced fruit and vegetables, as well as Picardy cheeses and cakes with Chantilly cream.

Key Information about the Oise (60)

• Main City/Prefecture: Beauvais
• Nearest Airport: Beauvais-Tillé Airport
• Population: Around 826,000 (as of the latest census)  
• Area: 5,860 sq. kilometres and 2,262 sq. miles
• Landmark: Château de Chantilly, a famous Renaissance château with lush gardens and a renowned equestrian museum.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 2 million, drawn by its historic castles, cathedrals, and proximity to Paris.

Types of Properties for Sale in Oise

Located in the scenic northern region of France, the Oise offers diverse property options for those seeking a blend of history, charm, and modern amenities. Buyers can choose from traditional brick houses, both single and multi-storey, along with contemporary homes, renovated farmhouses, and stylish villas, especially in desirable locations. The department also offers apartments, period residences, and fixer-uppers, providing a broad spectrum of opportunities for achieving a dream French lifestyle.

Property Prices in Oise in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,283
• Apartments: the average price per sq. metre: €3,340
• Price trends: –6% over the last 12 months, +15% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Oise in 2025

• Average House Price in Beauvais: €2,299 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in  Compiègne: €2,838 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Creil: €2,207 per sq. metre

(source: Le Figaro – October 2025)

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