Solo retiree trying to decide where to settle

I am in the same situation as you, but my daughter lives in La Vienne, very happily with her children, but I understand what you mean by quiet. I have spent time in the Lot this summer and this is also far too rural and empty in the winter for my likes. I have also decided that I want to live close to the coast as I love seafood. I have previously contemplated buying / renting in the Ariege, Gers, Garonne and Dordogne.
If you want the South or South West, Carcassonne, Nimes, Avignon are all good year round attractive towns, but I doubt if you will find much there in your price range.

Montmorillon may be in your price range, but it's inland with limited facilities.

I have decided on Southern Brittany, because I need the ferries back to Uk and Ireland, I like the area and it positively blooms in the summer. Again choose towns like Nantes (big), Angers, Vannes or L'Orient.

Bon chance, Rod

Thanks, Rod.  Appreciate  your responding.  Bonne chance to you, too!
Paulette

I would avoid Carcassonne, such a dull city. Surroundings are beautiful though.
Montauban is quite cheap and only one hour from Toulouse.

Thanks, I'll look into it!

Montpellier is large enough, with plenty going on all year. It has a variety of neighborhoods, and outlying areas that might have what you're looking for.

I understand the problem you face, but if I were looking for somewhere to live I would need to feel some connection with the place or area and at least know somebody living nearby.
I live most of the year in a rustic part of south-west France which younger people would say is nott is not very stimulating and yes, everything seems to shut down from mid August to late June, but that's because you have to invest time in local activities, learn the language and make friends.
I can't afford to retire, so I have a business which helps me to make interesting contacts. Failing that there is always French television.
Please excuse any typos, but an ad has imposed itself and I can only see half the text I'm typing!