France often makes the shortlist of the most attractive locations to retire abroad. With its stunning scenery across the country, world-renowned cuisine and wine varieties from its North to the South, from its East to West, culture-rich cities, friendly residents, and all-in-all a high quality of life, it’s no wonder that France is such a popular destination for American expatriates who wish to move to or retire to Europe. Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should consider making a move to this beautiful country:
The Cost of Living Is Surprisingly Affordable
Contrary to popular belief, moving to France doesn’t have to be expensive. Depending on where you choose to live and your lifestyle choices, the cost of living in most of France can be quite reasonable. For example, eating out is very affordable compared to the U.S, with an inexpensive meal costing around $10-15. Basic groceries are also much cheaper than what you would find in The States. For example, a loaf of bread (or a baguette, as the French call it) only costs about $1. Of course, if you’re thinking about moving to Paris then expect that your cost of living will be higher than elsewhere in the country. But even so, it’s still possible to find affordable accommodation and stick to a budget. Shared apartments start from around $650 per month, while studios can be found for as little as $900 per month.
The French Lifestyle Is More Relaxed
The pace of life living in Paris and elsewhere in France is a lot slower than in the U.S, which can be quite a shock for those who are used to the fast-paced big-city lifestyle. However, most people soon get used to it and come to appreciate the more relaxed way of life. One thing that takes some getting used to is the fact that shops close early, usually around 6 or 7 pm, and many businesses are closed on Sundays. This can make planning your week a bit tricky at first, but you’ll quickly learn to work around it. In general, French employees enjoy longer lunch breaks and take more time off work than their American counterparts. For example, many businesses close down for two weeks in August so that employees can go on vacation. This may sound like a nightmare for those who are used to working long hours, but it’s very refreshing once you get used to it!
The French Healthcare System Is Ranked Highly
France has an excellent healthcare system that is ranked among the best in the world. Everyone who lives in France is required by law to have health insurance, which covers a wide range of medical treatments and procedures at very reasonable rates. In addition, expatriates are also entitled to use the public healthcare system which provides high-quality care for free or less money than private insurance companies. For example, a consultation with a general practitioner usually costs around $20-30 while prescription drugs are heavily subsidized by the government, meaning they often only cost a few cents each. If you do decide to take out private health insurance, there are plenty of options available and premiums start from as little as $35 per month.
If you’re looking for a high quality life abroad, where you can enjoy the local culture to the fullest and be surrounded by the most beautiful scenery there is, here are the top 5 most attractive regions to move to France as an expat:
1. Living in Brittany, France
The quiet region of Brittany is a true hidden gem that has a lot to offer to retirees looking for an attractive location to move to or retire abroad. Situated on the northwestern edge of France with a long coastline along the English Channel, Brittany is blessed with natural beauty, beaches, mild weather, and interesting history and culture. And while it may not be as cheap as some other popular retirement destinations like Mexico or Thailand, the cost of living in Brittany is still quite reasonable compared to most parts of America.
With miles of sandy beaches bordering both the Atlantic Ocean and the English Channel, plus dozens of picturesque towns and villages dotting the countryside (many complete with medieval castles), it’s no wonder that much of Brittany’s appeal lies in its scenic setting. The area also boasts several large cities worth exploring including Rennes (the capital), Brest (a busy port city), Nantes (with its beautiful castle grounds), Quimper (known for pottery production since medieval times), and Vannes (an atmospheric Old Town surrounded by ramparts). In addition to all this water-side beauty, there are also plenty of rolling hills perfect for hiking or biking – making retirement here feel like one active adventure.
2. Living in Normandy, France
When it comes to moving or retiring abroad, there are few places more attractive than Normandy. Situated on the northwestern coast of France, Normandy is known for its beautiful coastline, countryside landscapes dotted with farms and villages, and rich history. Geographically, living in Normandy has a lot to offer. In addition to the stunning coastline (including the famous cliffs at Etretat), there are also rolling hills perfect for exploring the countryside, and beautiful forests full of wildlife. The climate is mild year-round thanks to the influence of both the ocean and gulf stream waters – meaning you can enjoy all four seasons without extremes in temperatures. Many French upper-class families own vacation homes in this region.
The main cities in Normandy include Rouen (the capital), Caen, Le Havre, Bayeux, Honfleur, Deauville/Trouville, and Cherbourg-Octeville. Each has its unique charms, such as Rouen’s Gothic cathedral and half-timbered houses straight out of a storybook, Caen’s Norman castle, and Le Havre’s modern architecture (designed by famed architect Auguste Perret after WWII). And let’s not forget about Bayeux, home of “The Tapestry”, one of medieval Europe’s most incredible works of art!
When it comes to lifestyle, Norman residents know how to live well. In addition to world-class food and wine, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, sailing, fishing, and golfing. If you’re looking for a slower-paced lifestyle with more leisure time than what you may be used to in America, Normandy is worth considering! The cost of living in Normandy is also quite reasonable compared to other parts of French regions or the US states, making it an attractive option for both retirement budgets as well as those simply wanting extra bang for their bucks.
3. Living in The Loire Valley, France
Living in The Loire Valley is a great fit for expats in search of culture and history. The Loire Valley is a large and picturesque region located in the center of France. It spans over 280 miles, stretching from Sancerre in the east to Nantes in the west. The landscape is varied and includes gently rolling hills, forests, vineyards, pretty medieval villages, and even some coastline along the River Loire. This area has been inhabited for centuries and as such there are many historical attractions to visit including castles (such as Chenonceau or Chambord), cathedrals (Notre Dame de Chartres), museums (Cluny Museum), and abbeys (Fontevraud Abbey). There are also numerous outdoor activities on offer such as hiking, cycling, horse-riding through the countryside, canoeing down one of the rivers, or visiting a local vineyard for a wine-tasting session.
The largest city in this region is Tours which has a population of around 140,000 people. Here you can find all necessary amenities plus an international airport with direct flights to various US cities such as New York City, Boston, or Atlanta amongst others. In general, living costs in France can be slightly higher than average when compared with other European countries but still lower than what Americans are used to. For example, housing expenses take up around 30% of residents’ salaries on average here. And whilst income taxes may be high by US standards, job security tends to be better too and there are many free benefits that come from taxes, such as free healthcare, free or very affordable college education, paid maternity leave, more paid vacation days and many more, so it all balances out.
When it comes to quality of life, research shows that French citizens rank highly in both happiness levels and work/life balance satisfaction which makes sense given their 35-hour legal working week. Overall then, it’s easy to see why retirees and those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle might choose to settle down amidst the beautiful scenery of The Loire Valley.
4. Living in Provence, France
The famous region of Provence, located in the south of France, is a popular choice for Americans looking to retire or move abroad. Living in Provence offers a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle and quality of life that can be difficult to find in the United States. Additionally, the cost of living in Provence is generally lower than in American cities, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
The climate in Provence is mild and sunny year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it an ideal destination for those who want to escape cold winters or hot summers. There are many beautiful and historic towns and villages dotting the landscape of Provence. Some notable highlights include Avignon (with its famous Pope’s Palace), Arles (where van Gogh painted many of his masterpieces), and Aix-en-Provence (a lovely city known for its fountains). There are also numerous beaches where you can enjoy the warm Mediterranean Sea.
The food scene in Provence is fantastic, with fresh seafood, local produce, and olive oil being staples of the Provencal diet. There are also many Michelin-starred restaurants if you’re looking for a special dining experience. Provence is also relatively safe and the crime rates are low. This makes it an ideal place to raise a family or enjoy your retirement in peace. If you’re interested in moving to or retiring in Provence, there are numerous resources available to help you make the transition. With its beautiful scenery, great food and wine, mild climate, and low cost of living, Provence is an increasingly popular choice for Americans looking for a new home abroad.
5. Living in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is located in southwest France. It is known for its red wines, but there are many other reasons why Nouvelle-Aquitaine is an attractive location for Americans to move to or retire abroad. The climate is mild, the scenery is breathtaking, and the cost of living compares favorably with US cities like New York or Los Angeles. The main city in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is Bordeaux itself, home to many English-speaking expats. The surrounding countryside is dotted with charming villages and rolling vineyards.
Retirees will find plenty of activities to keep them busy, from exploring the region to visiting art museums and historic landmarks. And because it’s such a popular tourist destination, English-speaking services and amenities are widely available throughout Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Compared to other European countries, France has a relatively low retirement costs. Housing expenses can be high depending on your chosen neighborhood, but overall you’ll find that your dollars go further here than they would at home in America. It’s easy to see why so many foreigners choose to start a new life in the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
