Thinking of making the leap and moving to France? You’re not alone. Whether you’re craving better croissants, more culture, or just a break from your current commute, France continues to be one of the most popular destinations for expats looking for a fresh start, and not just for the cheese (though, to be fair, that’s reason enough).
From quality of life to regional charm, here are five solid, well-reasoned (and mildly indulgent) reasons to move to France, along with practical insights for future expats in France.
Table of Contents
The quality of life is seriously hard to beat
Let’s start with the obvious: the French lifestyle. Think long lunches, scenic countryside drives, Sunday markets, and unapologetically taking August off. The French have mastered the art of joie de vivre, and no, it’s not just a travel brochure cliché.
Why it matters:
- Healthcare: France has one of the world’s top-ranked healthcare systems. Universal access, high-quality care, and heavily subsidised costs make it one less thing to stress about.
- Work–life balance: It’s not just talk. The 35-hour work week, generous holiday allowances, and strict labour protections give residents real downtime.
- Pace of life: Outside of Paris, the rhythm is slower. Locals actually stop to enjoy their coffee, and their lives.
Planning your future in France? Learn more about the cost of living in France before making the move.
The food and wine culture is practically a way of life
This one’s a no-brainer. If there’s one country where the supermarket cheese aisle looks like a Michelin-starred tasting board, it’s France.
From fresh-baked baguettes that somehow never go stale until the moment you need one, to three-course weekday lunches in cafés that cost less than a London sandwich, the French approach to food is almost sacred.
Expect to enjoy:
- Wines that don’t break the bank, but still taste like a sommelier picked them
- Markets with actual farmers, not just hipsters reselling organic kale
- Meal culture that prioritises taste, tradition, and taking your time
Moving to France means you won’t just eat better, you’ll live better. (And yes, you may gain a few cheese-related pounds. It’s cultural immersion.)
You’re surrounded by beauty, everywhere
One of the unexpected perks of living in France is how absurdly pretty everything is. Even a random village you drive through by accident might have a medieval château, a 17th-century church, and three Michelin Guide restaurants (one of which is probably run by someone’s grandmother).
You’re never far from a mountain, vineyard, beach, or lavender field.
Not sure where to go? Check out:
From the chic streets of Paris to the sun-drenched coasts of the Riviera and the storybook villages of Alsace, there’s a version of France that fits just about anyone’s dream.
Lower cost of living (if you know where to look)
Let’s be clear: Paris is expensive. But France is not just Paris. Once you look beyond the capital, you’ll find affordable living, spacious housing, and a slower pace, without sacrificing quality.
For example:
- A charming house in rural Normandy or the Dordogne can cost less than a studio flat in London
- Dining out regularly won’t wreck your monthly budget
- Public transport, healthcare, and education are all heavily subsidise
If you’re strategic about location (and not set on living next to the Eiffel Tower), the cost of living in France can be refreshingly manageable. Here’s our deep dive into French cost trends.
The French healthcare system is genuinely excellent
One of the most practical (and underrated) reasons to move to France is the country’s world-renowned healthcare system. Efficient, accessible, and affordable, it consistently ranks among the best in the world, and it’s not just for locals.
As a resident or long-term visa holder, you can access the public healthcare system, known as PUMa (Protection Universelle Maladie), which covers a wide range of services including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and even specialist care.
What makes it stand out?
- Public and private care coexist, you can choose what works best for you
- Most medical costs are partially reimbursed by the state
- Top-up insurance (mutuelle) is affordable and covers the rest
- Even dental, vision, and mental health care are widely accessible
Registering for French healthcare can take a bit of patience (this is France, after all), but once you’re in the system, the quality and consistency are hard to match. Plus, waiting rooms are oddly calm, perhaps because everyone’s already been seen on time.
FAQs: Moving to France
Is it expensive to live in France?
It depends on where you live. Paris is pricey, but many regions offer a lower cost of living with high quality of life. Read more about cost of living in France.
Do I need to speak French to live in France?
You can get by in English in larger cities, but learning French will greatly improve your experience and help with admin, social integration, and general life sanity.
Can I work in France as a foreigner?
Yes, but you’ll need the appropriate visa. France offers options for employed workers, entrepreneurs, freelancers, and more.
Where do most expats live in France?
Many Americans and British expats live in Paris, Dordogne, Provence, and other picturesque regions. Check out where most Americans and British expats settle.
Is France a good place to retire?
Yes. Excellent healthcare, relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful surroundings make France a top choice for retirees from the UK, US, and beyond.
Final thoughts: So, should you move to France?
If you like the idea of living somewhere with great healthcare, real bread, diverse landscapes, and a touch of daily elegance, even if it comes with a few administrative headaches, then yes, France is worth the move.
For retirees, remote workers, young families, and entrepreneurs, the combination of lifestyle, affordability (outside Paris), and culture makes France one of the most rewarding places to start a new chapter.
Just remember to brush up on your French, stock up on patience, and maybe learn how to nod thoughtfully during a wine tasting.
Planning a move to France or just thinking about it?
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