×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
France | What do I need to know before retiring in France? | InternationalTravel.ai
InternationalTravel.ai
Lyon, France

What do I need to know before retiring in France?

Answer this Question

CitizenM
CitizenM
CitizenM
CitizenM

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to France, they said...

"Expats looking to retire in France should be aware that the country has a high cost of living and wages may not match those from their home country. Additionally, due to the language barrier, learning French is essential for effective communication. Retirees should also familiarize themselves with the various visa and residency requirements before embarking on the move. It is also helpful to research and know the cultural norms and customs in France as this will help them better integrate into the French lifestyle. Lastly, expats should consider the healthcare options they will have access to in the French system, and obtain coverage to avoid any medical expenses that are not covered," wrote a member who made the move to France.

VRBO Vacation RentalsVRBO Vacation Rentals
Learn More

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.

VRBO Vacation RentalsVRBO Vacation Rentals

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, Vrbo connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The Vrbo community offers families an array of rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, and more. Discover properties in destinations that everyone dreams of visiting.
Learn More

"Nice town but speaking French is a big advantage as the most spoken languages are French (suprise, suprise) and German. Very few people speak much English that I have found so far," explained one expat living in Strasbourg, France.

Please login to continue reading this article.

Not a member? Join Today (it's free).

Other Questions:

What do I need to know before retiring in France?

If you live in France, newcomers to France would love to hear your answer to this question.

If your answer relates to a specific city or town in France, please include the name of the city/town below:


About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of InternationalTravel.ai and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and InternationalTravel.ai, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

CitizenM
CitizenM

Experience affordable luxury at CitizenM hotels, with stylish stays at locations like New York, London and Paris. Smart tech and prime locations make your stay unforgettable.
Learn More

CitizenMCitizenM

Experience affordable luxury at CitizenM hotels, with stylish stays at locations like New York, London and Paris. Smart tech and prime locations make your stay unforgettable.
Learn More

CitizenM
CitizenM

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides