We are often asked, is it cheaper to live in France than in the US?
The answer is yes. If you are exloring a cheaper retirement option, which is also an interesting and exciting one, come on over!
At a time when many Americans want to escape the Recent Unpleasantness (to use the term that the ever-polite Charlestonians use for wars, hurricanes, and other traumatic events), it seem a good time to try and answer this question in detail.
Lady Liberty packs up to go back to France
I thought about the economic issue lately when a friend sent me an article from Forbes, suggesting that you might move to Europe if you want a more reasonably priced retirement.
So here is the situation on the costs of retiring in France, from our personal observations.
Is day-to-day life in France cheaper? Not exactly. Clothing is comparable, groceries are quite a bit cheaper, and dining out is way less expensive here if you compare it to prices in any sort of sophisticated foodie city, like Charleston. Cars are slightly more expensive here. Gas is more costly, about double the US price.
The real savings, however, are in two big areas.
The first one is real estate. if you are set on living in central Paris or on the Côte d’Azur, or in one of the uber-trendy perched Provençal villages popularized by Peter Mayle, then be prepared to spend big. But once you get out of these areas, real estate is quite reasonable and can be amazingly cheap, especially if you are interested in living in the countryside or in a village. Forbes estimates that real estate prices are 34% lower than the US. That’s a big chunk of change. And you can do much better than that, depending on the area you choose. Rentals, by the way, are surprisingly affordable.
In rural areas, rentals and home prices can be astonishingly cheap
The other big savings will be in healthcare, and the healthcare system is excellent–above the US in most rankings. You can apply for entry into the French healthcare system after 90 days in the country, if you plan to be a French resident. In which case the cost of your healthcare and insurance will drop drastically, compared to US costs. Or you can buy international policies for a sensible rate.
Depending on your interests, there is one other big savings: if European travel is your thing, your budget is going to go a long way. France is central, and you can travel to other places in France or most anywhere in Europe by train or with an inexpensive flight. Or, you can easily drive to other European countries (especially from Burgundy).
For the European travel lover, France is a paradise
France and the US have a tax treaty, so you will not be taxed double on US pensions, social security, etc. But you must file French tax returns. You will only need to pay local taxes like property tax.
But you might need to factor in this cost: the price of flights back-and-forth to see family, and friends, if this is something you plan to do regularly.
If your language skills are stopping you, well, then it’s time to get to work! It’s never too late to learn a language, at least enough to get by. Of course there are parts of France where you can get by with English just about everywhere. BUT that should not stop you from learning the language. It is simply respectful of the country you’re going to spend time in, to make a concerted effort to learn their language.
So what are you waiting for? C’est le moment! Time to get packing!
My other French expat readers, I hope you’ll jump in with your experiences, in the Comments.
In the COMMENTS: Laura, you are the first haggis lover I know! And it sounds like they really know how to fluff it up, or maybe disguise it. Julie’s husband might not agree, but he was a brave lad. And we are still talking about French hairdressers. Julie, your hair swings both ways, that’s a new one. And it sounds like your hairdressers went to the same French school as mine.
Favorite READS: The Charleston Literary Festival just ended, so I’ve been inspired by some new authors. I just finished Leaving, about a mid-life romance. A bit sad, but beautiful. We watched a one-man play by the author of All the Beauty in the World, based on the book, which was fabulous. It’s about author Patrick Brinkley, who takes a 10-year hiatus to work as a security guard in the MET in NY. And if you like the “Bruno, Chief of Police” series, Martin Walker has a new book out, A Grave in the Woods. Natalia has an uplifting book for us, which many of us need this week: Counting Miracles, by Nicholas Sparks.
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27 thoughts on “Moving to France: A Cheaper Retirement Option?”
I agree wholeheartedly. I would add that taxes on real estate are also quite low. I figure I save about $1200 a month between supplemental Medicare, Internet, mobile phone, etc. And the nice thing is that with my French phone plan, I can call all over Europe and North America for free. You won’t find that in the United States! in addition, it feels safer here. We don’t have guns. Politically, there are problems with the far right here in France. Who knows where that will go? But, we can be hopeful. As far as the language is concerned, it does take effort. I co-teach Anglophones through a voluntary program in Carcassonne. For only €30 a year, people can come and take our classes. We take beginners and, if they apply themselves, they can be at the A2 level by the end of the year. I’ve taken great pleasure in this as it gives me something to do and aids in my own capability as I constantly hammer grammar and vocabulary. And it’s wonderful to see people grow. Finally, the quality of life in France is amazing. And what continues to impress me, is the solidarity and the politeness of society here. It has been six years since I arrived, and I am in the process of applying for citizenship. It feels good and it feels right.
I agree wholeheartedly. I would add that taxes on real estate are also quite low. I figure I save about $1200 a month between supplemental Medicare, Internet, mobile phone, etc. And the nice thing is that with my French phone plan, I can call all over Europe and North America for free. You won’t find that in the United States! in addition, it feels safer here. We don’t have guns. Politically, there are problems with the far right here in France. Who knows where that will go? But, we can be hopeful. As far as the language is concerned, it does take effort. I co-teach Anglophones through a voluntary program in Carcassonne. For only €30 a year, people can come and take our classes. We take beginners and, if they apply themselves, they can be at the A2 level by the end of the year. I’ve taken great pleasure in this as it gives me something to do and aids in my own capability as I constantly hammer grammar and vocabulary. And it’s wonderful to see people grow. Finally, the quality of life in France is amazing. And what continues to impress me, is the solidarity and the politeness of society here. It has been six years since I arrived, and I am in the process of applying for citizenship. It feels good and it feels right.
I agree wholeheartedly. I would add that taxes on real estate are also quite low. I figure I save about $1200 a month between supplemental Medicare, Internet, mobile phone, etc. And the nice thing is that with my French phone plan, I can call all over Europe and North America for free. You won’t find that in the United States! in addition, it feels safer here. We don’t have guns. Politically, there are problems with the far right here in France. Who knows where that will go? But, we can be hopeful. As far as the language is concerned, it does take effort. I co-teach Anglophones through a voluntary program in Carcassonne. For only €30 a year, people can come and take our classes. We take beginners and, if they apply themselves, they can be at the A2 level by the end of the year. I’ve taken great pleasure in this as it gives me something to do and aids in my own capability as I constantly hammer grammar and vocabulary. And it’s wonderful to see people grow. Finally, the quality of life in France is amazing. And what continues to impress me, is the solidarity and the politeness of society here. It has been six years since I arrived, and I am in the process of applying for citizenship. It feels good and it feels right.
so correct in every way. I have been here 16 years and the only thing more expensive in france is fuel for the car. However, without the daily commute, you drive far less. Its a beautiful, safe, reasonably priced country, I will not be leaving.
bonnie in provence
so correct in every way. I have been here 16 years and the only thing more expensive in france is fuel for the car. However, without the daily commute, you drive far less. Its a beautiful, safe, reasonably priced country, I will not be leaving.
bonnie in provence
so correct in every way. I have been here 16 years and the only thing more expensive in france is fuel for the car. However, without the daily commute, you drive far less. Its a beautiful, safe, reasonably priced country, I will not be leaving.
bonnie in provence
Loved your comment about it being respectful to learn the language. Absolutely spot on!
There are other benefits too which more than repay any efforts made.
People will be friendlier and more accommodating and you might even be offered the ultimate accolade of acceptance in France when your new found acquaintance invites you to address them as tu ratherthan vous.
It’s lovely and a completely unambiguous signal that they genuinely like you and want to be friends.
Loved your comment about it being respectful to learn the language. Absolutely spot on!
There are other benefits too which more than repay any efforts made.
People will be friendlier and more accommodating and you might even be offered the ultimate accolade of acceptance in France when your new found acquaintance invites you to address them as tu ratherthan vous.
It’s lovely and a completely unambiguous signal that they genuinely like you and want to be friends.
Loved your comment about it being respectful to learn the language. Absolutely spot on!
There are other benefits too which more than repay any efforts made.
People will be friendlier and more accommodating and you might even be offered the ultimate accolade of acceptance in France when your new found acquaintance invites you to address them as tu ratherthan vous.
It’s lovely and a completely unambiguous signal that they genuinely like you and want to be friends.
Well, Lynn. I wondered when you’d write this post. You must receive questions all the time about it. We talk about it incessantly–and started that conversation long before the “Recent Unpleasantness.” We have found that recenty, we have given up the news (we were considered news junkies) for French t.v.–mostly news, oddly enough, but also the “exploring France” shows like Echapee Belle, Les Villages Prefere de France, Secrets d’Histoire, all the Murders In, L’Art du Crime, etc. (Forgive the lack of accents. It’s tricky on the computer, easier on the phone.)
I’m happy to hear that Martin Walker has finally produced something new. He took his time! Louise Penny is way more productive. Her book is sitting on my coffee table ready to read. I received it on October 24, I think, and I’ve been reading other books, ignoring hers, only because I know that once I pick it up, it’ll be over all too soon. Ahh. The joy and agony of finishing a good book!
Thanks for the post.
Well, Lynn. I wondered when you’d write this post. You must receive questions all the time about it. We talk about it incessantly–and started that conversation long before the “Recent Unpleasantness.” We have found that recenty, we have given up the news (we were considered news junkies) for French t.v.–mostly news, oddly enough, but also the “exploring France” shows like Echapee Belle, Les Villages Prefere de France, Secrets d’Histoire, all the Murders In, L’Art du Crime, etc. (Forgive the lack of accents. It’s tricky on the computer, easier on the phone.)
I’m happy to hear that Martin Walker has finally produced something new. He took his time! Louise Penny is way more productive. Her book is sitting on my coffee table ready to read. I received it on October 24, I think, and I’ve been reading other books, ignoring hers, only because I know that once I pick it up, it’ll be over all too soon. Ahh. The joy and agony of finishing a good book!
Thanks for the post.
Well, Lynn. I wondered when you’d write this post. You must receive questions all the time about it. We talk about it incessantly–and started that conversation long before the “Recent Unpleasantness.” We have found that recenty, we have given up the news (we were considered news junkies) for French t.v.–mostly news, oddly enough, but also the “exploring France” shows like Echapee Belle, Les Villages Prefere de France, Secrets d’Histoire, all the Murders In, L’Art du Crime, etc. (Forgive the lack of accents. It’s tricky on the computer, easier on the phone.)
I’m happy to hear that Martin Walker has finally produced something new. He took his time! Louise Penny is way more productive. Her book is sitting on my coffee table ready to read. I received it on October 24, I think, and I’ve been reading other books, ignoring hers, only because I know that once I pick it up, it’ll be over all too soon. Ahh. The joy and agony of finishing a good book!
Thanks for the post.
Thank you,Lynn,as always,for a post filled with not only food for thought,but also some really helpful facts to accompany it when considering turning this possibilty into a reality. I particularly appreciated your tips to learn the language—certainly an important stepping stone in making life more easy and pleasant.
My book suggestion this time is not only a cookbook,but one that deserves a place on the coffee table as well:”Life’s Sweetest Moments” by Dominique Ansel.I am a huge fan of both the traditional Breton cake Kouign-Amann AND of heavenly Caneles(Caneles de Bordeaux).When our favorite patisserie stopped making them,I was forced to find an alternate source to satisfy my sweet teeth.After googling the possibilities,I discovered Chef Ansel(with whom I was not familiar with at the time) in New York.I began FedExing these delights to me here at home,and as luck would have it,he has since opened a bakery here in town! YUM! Illustrated with glorious photographs and charming stories, this volume is a delight.My only criticism is that it’s a challenge not to drool on the pages!
Thank you,Lynn,as always,for a post filled with not only food for thought,but also some really helpful facts to accompany it when considering turning this possibilty into a reality. I particularly appreciated your tips to learn the language—certainly an important stepping stone in making life more easy and pleasant.
My book suggestion this time is not only a cookbook,but one that deserves a place on the coffee table as well:”Life’s Sweetest Moments” by Dominique Ansel.I am a huge fan of both the traditional Breton cake Kouign-Amann AND of heavenly Caneles(Caneles de Bordeaux).When our favorite patisserie stopped making them,I was forced to find an alternate source to satisfy my sweet teeth.After googling the possibilities,I discovered Chef Ansel(with whom I was not familiar with at the time) in New York.I began FedExing these delights to me here at home,and as luck would have it,he has since opened a bakery here in town! YUM! Illustrated with glorious photographs and charming stories, this volume is a delight.My only criticism is that it’s a challenge not to drool on the pages!
Thank you,Lynn,as always,for a post filled with not only food for thought,but also some really helpful facts to accompany it when considering turning this possibilty into a reality. I particularly appreciated your tips to learn the language—certainly an important stepping stone in making life more easy and pleasant.
My book suggestion this time is not only a cookbook,but one that deserves a place on the coffee table as well:”Life’s Sweetest Moments” by Dominique Ansel.I am a huge fan of both the traditional Breton cake Kouign-Amann AND of heavenly Caneles(Caneles de Bordeaux).When our favorite patisserie stopped making them,I was forced to find an alternate source to satisfy my sweet teeth.After googling the possibilities,I discovered Chef Ansel(with whom I was not familiar with at the time) in New York.I began FedExing these delights to me here at home,and as luck would have it,he has since opened a bakery here in town! YUM! Illustrated with glorious photographs and charming stories, this volume is a delight.My only criticism is that it’s a challenge not to drool on the pages!
I absolutely laughed out loud upon seeing the photo of a despondent Lady Liberty with packed suitcase🤣 Unpleasantness for sure!!
I absolutely laughed out loud upon seeing the photo of a despondent Lady Liberty with packed suitcase🤣 Unpleasantness for sure!!
I absolutely laughed out loud upon seeing the photo of a despondent Lady Liberty with packed suitcase🤣 Unpleasantness for sure!!
Lynn, another perfect blog about living in La Belle France! You asked for some comments about some experiences on our residence in southern Burgundy from 2000 to 2020. It was all just perfect, easy process to buy and renovate our property(s) and even the local tax ladies offered to fill out our french tax forms! We were lucky as our primary physician lived in our village and we were within a 20 minute drive to specialists and hospitals. The bank were especially helpful with credit cards and accounts. A personal note that brought tears to our eyes was when 9/11 occurred and the village friends brought flowers, food and beautiful cards to share their sadness over what people did to America. Our village of 200 people was and still is very active (which I would suggest Americans should check out to see how active it is) before deciding on locating to that village/town/city. We were basically adopted by the villagers and it broke our hearts when we decided to return to Southern California. It appears that the great health care available that we experiences is not as easy to manage today. Consider renting in france for 6-12 months and identify providers of those important services you might require while living there. I want to add that our lives are so deeply enriched due to our time in France and our dear friends we met. Do yourself a favor and see if it is for you.
Lynn, another perfect blog about living in La Belle France! You asked for some comments about some experiences on our residence in southern Burgundy from 2000 to 2020. It was all just perfect, easy process to buy and renovate our property(s) and even the local tax ladies offered to fill out our french tax forms! We were lucky as our primary physician lived in our village and we were within a 20 minute drive to specialists and hospitals. The bank were especially helpful with credit cards and accounts. A personal note that brought tears to our eyes was when 9/11 occurred and the village friends brought flowers, food and beautiful cards to share their sadness over what people did to America. Our village of 200 people was and still is very active (which I would suggest Americans should check out to see how active it is) before deciding on locating to that village/town/city. We were basically adopted by the villagers and it broke our hearts when we decided to return to Southern California. It appears that the great health care available that we experiences is not as easy to manage today. Consider renting in france for 6-12 months and identify providers of those important services you might require while living there. I want to add that our lives are so deeply enriched due to our time in France and our dear friends we met. Do yourself a favor and see if it is for you.
Lynn, another perfect blog about living in La Belle France! You asked for some comments about some experiences on our residence in southern Burgundy from 2000 to 2020. It was all just perfect, easy process to buy and renovate our property(s) and even the local tax ladies offered to fill out our french tax forms! We were lucky as our primary physician lived in our village and we were within a 20 minute drive to specialists and hospitals. The bank were especially helpful with credit cards and accounts. A personal note that brought tears to our eyes was when 9/11 occurred and the village friends brought flowers, food and beautiful cards to share their sadness over what people did to America. Our village of 200 people was and still is very active (which I would suggest Americans should check out to see how active it is) before deciding on locating to that village/town/city. We were basically adopted by the villagers and it broke our hearts when we decided to return to Southern California. It appears that the great health care available that we experiences is not as easy to manage today. Consider renting in france for 6-12 months and identify providers of those important services you might require while living there. I want to add that our lives are so deeply enriched due to our time in France and our dear friends we met. Do yourself a favor and see if it is for you.
Much as I would love to live in France—close to our dear French friends who live in the Charente or our other French friends who have lived for countless generations on the Côte d’Azur—we have two adorable grandchildren who live minutes away. We want to be part of their lives and they want us to be part of theirs. We wouldn’t trade it for all “le douceur de la vie” in France. Almost 54 years ago, I had the opportunity to live and work in Grenoble. Instead I chose to return to the US. We have all had “roads not taken”. Nevertheless, things have turned out well for me even if I am not “living the dream”.
Much as I would love to live in France—close to our dear French friends who live in the Charente or our other French friends who have lived for countless generations on the Côte d’Azur—we have two adorable grandchildren who live minutes away. We want to be part of their lives and they want us to be part of theirs. We wouldn’t trade it for all “le douceur de la vie” in France. Almost 54 years ago, I had the opportunity to live and work in Grenoble. Instead I chose to return to the US. We have all had “roads not taken”. Nevertheless, things have turned out well for me even if I am not “living the dream”.
Much as I would love to live in France—close to our dear French friends who live in the Charente or our other French friends who have lived for countless generations on the Côte d’Azur—we have two adorable grandchildren who live minutes away. We want to be part of their lives and they want us to be part of theirs. We wouldn’t trade it for all “le douceur de la vie” in France. Almost 54 years ago, I had the opportunity to live and work in Grenoble. Instead I chose to return to the US. We have all had “roads not taken”. Nevertheless, things have turned out well for me even if I am not “living the dream”.
If you have a trust, get rid of it BEFORE moving to France. The income from it WILL be taxed at 30% thanks to a new Supreme Court decision to tax trust income. The trusts have to be reported every year along with income reports, although income from other sources will not be double taxed. PLEASE do a piece on this because we learned the hard way and we’re not moving back to the US, no way!!!!
If you have a trust, get rid of it BEFORE moving to France. The income from it WILL be taxed at 30% thanks to a new Supreme Court decision to tax trust income. The trusts have to be reported every year along with income reports, although income from other sources will not be double taxed. PLEASE do a piece on this because we learned the hard way and we’re not moving back to the US, no way!!!!
If you have a trust, get rid of it BEFORE moving to France. The income from it WILL be taxed at 30% thanks to a new Supreme Court decision to tax trust income. The trusts have to be reported every year along with income reports, although income from other sources will not be double taxed. PLEASE do a piece on this because we learned the hard way and we’re not moving back to the US, no way!!!!