Living in France: Insights on Everyday Life and Culture.

Living in France is a dream for many. But what is the reality for expats who choose to move there? In this extensive guide, we’ll give you a taste of why France is such a popular expat destination, cover all of your expected costs, and even provide some pro tips on how best to get by in this iconic country! 

Is France a good place to live?

The French lifestyle is one of the most romanticized and dreamed-about lifestyles in the world – and for good reason. Whether it’s long morning coffees in a cobblestoned cafe, lazy lunches with a bottle of wine, or midweek escapes to the beach and mountains, enjoying life has always been at the top of France’s priority list. France consistently rates highly in Expatriate satisfaction surveys, irrelevant of nationality or life stage. So, what does make France such a great place to live?

Iconic Cuisine to Hidden Vineyard Gems

From the local cafe’s freshly baked croissants to the 639 Michelin-star restaurants, France is famous worldwide for its fantastic food. Along with its iconic Bistro-style French cuisine, France is also becoming an increasingly cosmopolitan place. You can find any and all of your favorite foods here! 

Similarly, French wine continuously wins international awards for its quality and excellence. However, the popular wine regions of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Champagne are just the start! The best French wine I’ve ever tasted was from a tiny vineyard near Bourges. The old winemaker filled a BYO bottle directly from an oak vat with just a smile and a nod. We never found out the name or varietal, but it remains one of the best travel experiences I have ever had, and for just €5!

Diverse and Vibrant Cities of France: Enjoy Culture, Entertainment, and Iconic Events.

The bustling cities of Paris, Lyon, and Marseille contain some of the most incredible culture in the entire world, and there are over 1200 museums throughout the country. Paris, in particular, being the largest city in all of Europe, has some of the most famous galleries and cultural icons ever built, such as the Louvre, the Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower. The entertainment, nightlife, and international draw mean that these incredible cities also pay host to some of the biggest events in sports and culture, such as Paris Fashion Week, the French Open Tennis, the Tour de France, and, more recently, the Rugby World Cup in 2023 and the Olympics in 2024!

Rural France: Tranquil Landscapes and Diverse Climates for Every Adventurer

However, these cities are a world away from the quiet rural regions, with their sedate pace and picturesque scenery. Huge swathes of farmland, a vast network of rivers and lakes, two contrasting coastlines, and two majestic mountain ranges provide everything you could ever need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The range of geography also means that there are many different climates. The warm Mediterranean to the south is a summer beach lover’s dream, and the cooler Atlantic to the west provides some of the best surf spots in Europe. If you are looking for a mountain getaway, the Pyrenees and the Alps are a Mecca for any adventure enthusiast. They provide everything you need to hike, ski, cycle, run, or simply enjoy the winter months within some of the most iconic mountains in the world!

Why France Remains a Top Choice for Expats and Second Homes

While other European countries are easier to move to, France remains very popular as a second home, and it’s easy to see why! The vast majority of new residents come from the UK (24%) or the U.S. (18%). Many opt to buy homes in the countryside to live in for a few months out of the year. Others move to France permanently, with the largest Expat populations in Paris and the surrounding region. In terms of language, many locals, especially in Paris and other major cities, will speak English. However, if you do speak some French, or at least make an effort, the locals will reward you. This is especially true if you want to live in a small town because many residents won’t speak English. 

(Check out the Learning French section in our Moving to France article for our best tips to getting started.)

Is France Safe

In terms of safety, by many measures, France ranks among the top countries in the world in terms of personal freedom and security. Naturally, petty crime and pickpocketing does take place in popular tourist spots in the bigger cities, such as Montmartre and the Eiffel Tower, and so we would encourage you to exercise caution with devices and cash in these areas. Unfortunately, there has been some extremist violence and violent protests in France in previous decades, however, the French police and state security are incredibly well-prepared to handle any issues. More legislation has also been put in place to improve personal liberties whilst maintaining state security, and France remains one of the most accommodating countries in the world for self-expression. All-in-all it remains one of the safest and most secure countries in Europe. 

France’s healthcare system is excellent

France has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. Most residents rely on a public system, and an excellent private system is popular with international residents. Prices are very low, and the quality of care is world-class. If you would like more information, our Moving to France guide goes into great detail on the system. 

With its world-class standard of living, easy-going lifestyle, and endless opportunities for entertainment and enjoyment, it is easy to see why France has been such a popular destination for expats for so long! But what does it cost? 

Cost of Living in France

Like most developed nations, the cost of living will vary depending on where you choose to live. Compared to the U.S., France’s consumer price index (CPI) is relatively stable, so you won’t see much fluctuation in the price of goods. Prices have also remained relatively stable over the past several years, however, have shown a gradual increase in recent times. 

French Cost of Living vs. the USA

On average, France has a slightly lower cost of living than the U.S.A., but France’s rental prices are considerably lower. This difference is true across the country, but living in Paris is more expensive than in smaller towns and villages.

Using the U.S.’s per diem rates to measure, the most expensive places in France are Cannes (especially during the summer) and, naturally, Paris. The per diem for Paris is €476 for lodging and €161 for meals/incidentals. Marseille, Deauville, and Strasbourg are still relatively expensive but less so than Paris.

Regions like Bordeaux, Montpellier, Nice, and Toulouse are the least expensive. For Toulouse, the lodging per diem is €220, and the meals and incidental rate is €122 each day.

French Cost of Living vs. the UK

France is very popular with UK citizens; slightly less than 200,000 UK citizens live in France. And, the savings vs. the UK are one of the drivers for their choice. On average, France is less expensive to live in than the UK in a like-for-like comparison. Just be aware GBP/Euro foreign exchange fluctuations can change this balance but have recently favored the Euro.

Remember, you’ll see higher prices across the board if you live in Paris. However, the UK is still considerably more expensive. This is particularly felt with regards to rent prices, with the UK being up to 20% more expensive than France. 

READ ALSO: French Visa Guide: your options to Immigrate to France.

Living in France after BREXIT

Since BREXIT, UK citizens don’t enjoy the residence rights they had under EU protocols. In general, UK citizens will now have to obtain a visa for stays of over three months, much like U.S. citizens. It’s still entirely possible to move to France after BREXIT; however, you’ll have to jump through a few more hoops now.

Our detailed article provides everything you need to know about the technical side of immigrating, so you can explore all of your options for French visa, residency, and immigration.

You can also book in for a 30-minute immigration consultation with our recommended French immigration lawyers. They will understand your situation, advise you on the best visa route, and let you know the steps you need to take to get the visa.

How to Get Around France

Buses, Trams and Metro

Many major French cities have metro, tram, and light rail systems, as well as urban buses. Most residents use these systems as they are cheap, safe, and reliable.

Six major French cities have metro systems: Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Lille, Toulouse, and Renne. The first three have the most extensive systems.

If you’re in Paris, the easiest way to get around is the Metro (le Métro), and Metro tickets are transferable to bus lines. One-way trips cost €1.90, or you can get a monthly (€75.20) travel pass that you can purchase online here. You can also buy rechargeable Navigo cards at bus and metro stations, which can be topped up in the stations or with Navigo’s new free App.

Important Tip: Unlike the UK, the trains and buses in France do not accept contactless payments with Apple cards – you have to either have a topped-up Navigo card or buy a ticket at the station! 

Trains

3.4 million people travel on French trains every single day. The national train system, SNCF, is an excellent and reliable resource for traveling between major hubs in France with comfortable, clean, and efficient trains. These trains also have affordable and easy links to other major hubs throughout Europe!

You can buy tickets ahead of time through their website or at the train station. You may also want to try the TGV for high-speed rail transport for longer trips. 

Note: You must purchase these tickets ahead of time. 

Air

The two biggest airports in France are in Paris – Charles de Gaulle and Orly, both with well-connected links into the city – and there are many smaller regional airports. If you’re traveling within Europe, you’ll have many choices for cheap flights from discount airlines.

Driving in France with a foreign license 

If you have an EU/EEA license, you can use it in France. Non-EU/EEA drivers can use their licenses for up to a year with a VLS-TS visa or residence permit.

If you want to keep driving past that year, you’ll have to exchange your foreign license for a French one. Your home country will need to sign an exchange agreement. Because of this, it’s recommended you figure this out before you move or at least inquire into it if you think you’ll need it.

Students with a VLS-TS student visa can use foreign driver’s licenses for the duration of their permit, even if it exceeds one year.

France and the USA have a reciprocal agreement for driving licenses. You can exchange your USA license for a French one without having to pass the test. However, like most of Europe and the UK, only people over 18 can drive a car in France.

Note on BREXIT: If you are a UK citizen currently living in France, if your license was issued before 1st January 2021, you do not have to exchange it. However, if it was issued after this date, it needs to be exchanged after one year, as above.

Penalties and fines for breaking road rules

A speeding ticket in France is at least €135, but if you pay within two weeks of the transgression it can be reduced to €90. There are lots of cameras that will ticket you for going 5% over the speed limit. If the police stop you, they expect you to pay the fine on the spot.

France Income Tax

France has higher rates of taxation than the USA and some other countries. The payoff is excellent public services like healthcare and education.

Here are some common ones you’ll come across when living in France:

• VAT: VAT (value-added taxes) are common throughout Europe. In France, the VAT is 20%. Certain commodities will have a lower VAT, like groceries at 5.5% and meals at restaurants at 10%. By law, vendors must add VAT to the displayed price, so you won’t have to do any on-the-spot calculations.
• Income tax: We’ll cover income taxes more below, but most Expats pay income taxes if their primary source of income is France-sourced.
• Social Security tax: This is not the same as the social security tax in the States. Instead, these are “social charges” (contributions sociales) that fund your health care and other social benefits.
• Waste collection tax: Depending on where you live you could pay this in addition to your regular garbage service.

TV license tax: There used to be a one-time tax of €138 to pay for your TV license. However, as of 2022, this was scrapped entirely, and there are now no TV license fees at all!

Personal income tax rates for residents:

• Up to €11,294: 0%
• €11,295–€28,797: 11%
• €28,798–€82,341: 30%
• €82,342–€177,106: 41%
• €177,107+: 45%

Income tax in France for freelancers

If you’re the only employee of your company (known as a “micro-entrepreneur”), your income tax is based on cash receipts, not profits and losses. Each micro-entrepreneur receives an allowance that offsets this, based on the type of enterprise you run. 

Since 2019, most employees have paid income tax monthly via the PAYE (pay-as-you-earn) system rather than figuring everything out at the end of the year. Non-residents living in France have to pay 20% income tax on France-sourced income up to €27,519, and 30% for income above this.

You’re generally considered a resident if:

• Your primary income source is from France
• You’ve lived in France for at least 183 days
• Your primary residence is in France
• The reason you’re in France is for employment

Securing a tax identification number (TIN) 

If you are looking to work in France while living there, then you will need to get a TIN or Tax Identification Number (also called the SPI – simplification des procedures d’imposition). While you don’t need a tax number if you are a non-taxpayer, it is required for those earning a French income. It is a fairly simple process to get, however, you will need one before filing your first tax return, which can all be done online. To get your tax number, you can contact the local French tax office closest to you. 

Important to note: This number is not the same as your INSEE code, and you won’t automatically get one after registering.

READ ALSO: How To Make Moving To France Easy >> Plus Extra Insider Tips

Healthcare for Expats moving to France

France’s strong healthcare system provides public health insurance for all its residents. The Legatum Prosperity Index ranks France as the 23rd-best global healthcare system.

While the healthcare you’ll receive as a resident isn’t free, it is heavily subsidized. Expect your coverage to pay around 70% of your costs.

In general, you can lower medical costs by only seeing contracted doctors (conventionné) who can only charge the prices fixed by the government. You can also buy French Private or Expat Healthcare Insurance (complémentaire santé) to cover this remaining 30%.

If you live and work in France for over three months, you are eligible for coverage through the national health care system. If you’re working for a French employer, they’ll often start the process of signing you up for a social security number (numéro de sécurité sociale).

This is not like a U.S. social security number; it just gets you into the system so you can start receiving benefits. Once you have a social security number, you can get a health insurance card (carte vitale).

Note: You’ll need to update your card anytime something changes (health, employment), but you do this at most pharmacies. They have machines that update your account using your card. 

For complete peace of mind, we do recommend Expat Health Insurance. International Insurance has helped many of our clients to find the right policy. They are independent brokers and so will have your best in mind and it doesn’t cost any more to go through them. They have a wide network of global insurers to choose from.

Best places to live in France

France has many diverse urban areas and slower-paced coastal and rural towns and villages to fit your preferred lifestyle. Our guide on Moving to France provides more information on buying or renting a house in France.

Best cities to live in France

Paris

The “City of Lights” is often named the most beautiful city in the world and for good reasons. Many people choose Paris for its nightlife, culture, shops, restaurants, and cosmopolitan community. However, be prepared to pay for the experience; Paris is not cheap. 

The climate in Paris is similar to the UK, with cold winter months and (increasingly) hot summers. There is a wealth of parks and green spaces to enjoy the summers and some of the most iconic galleries and museums in the world!

Montpellier

Montpellier, on the southern coast of France, sees warmer weather than many parts of the country. This option is popular with students, families, and art lovers alike. It’s one of France’s fastest-growing cities and is known for its commitment to sustainability and numerous bike lanes.

Dordogne

Dordogne is a popular destination for retirees because it’s full of charming countryside villages with low property prices. There are also many outdoor recreation options, such as canoeing, cycling, and hiking.

Food and wine lovers will also find Dordogne appealing with its many vineyards and farms.

Bordeaux

This region suits young professionals due to Bordeaux’s thriving economy and business sectors. That said, it’s also rich in culture, architecture, and wineries.
Residents enjoy mild weather and lower-than-average living costs.

Lyon

The whole of Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of 49 in France. It is a superb location for those who want to immerse themselves in the history of the old town. It’s also well known for its food and drink scene.

Lyon is the third-largest city in France but doesn’t feel crowded. It’s not the cheapest place to live, though it is less expensive than Paris.

Retiring in France

Retiring in France has been popular for many years. Retirees in France will love the slower pace, quality of life, opportunities to travel around the country, and of course, the food and wine! Plus, if you move to one of the cheaper cities, many retirees find it affordable compared with other European destinations.

There’s no specific retirement visa for France. Most retirees get a Type D Visa (Carte De Séjour À Solliciter Dans Les 2 Mois Suivant L’arrivée).

With this visa, you’ll have to apply for a residence permit within two months of arriving. You’ll also have to prove you have enough funds to support yourself, which you do by providing a pension or retirement account. These visas are renewable and can lead to permanent residency.

Know that you’ll pay French income taxes on your pension or retirement fund payouts. While this may dissuade some from moving here, you get a lot from your taxes, like health insurance. Make sure you inform your home country that you will now pay income tax in France to avoid double taxation.

Next steps for your new life in France

Living in France offers so much to many people; you’re sure to find a home you’ll love. Our Moving to France guide is a great resource for planning your move. Expat life in France is rewarding, but there are a few hoops you’ll need to jump through before you settle into the good life, and we are here to help you every step of the way.