Find the Perfect Region Based on Your U.S. Hometown
If you are among the thousands of Americans looking for the best places to retire in France, you may need some help. Like the U.S., France is incredibly diverse, and choosing where to live can be overwhelming. The good news is, whether you love coastal living, big cities, or rolling countryside, there’s a region in France that fits your lifestyle.
This guide compares the 13 regions of France to well-known U.S. areas, helping you find your perfect home away from home.
Île-de-France: The Fast-Paced Heart of France (Comparable to New York & New Jersey)
Île-de-France, home to Paris, is the perfect match for those who thrive in a bustling, cosmopolitan environment. With a temperate climate featuring cold winters and warm summers, this region offers world-class culture, history, and entertainment. Like New York, Paris is a financial, political, and artistic hub, blending urban excitement with charming suburban and rural escapes. If you love museums, fine dining, and endless cultural events, Île-de-France delivers the same energy as Manhattan or the cultural corridors of New Jersey. Other major cities in the region include Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Saint-Denis.
Geography: Urbanized in Paris, it is surrounded by forests like Fontainebleau and the rolling landscapes of the Seine Valley.
Food: Classic French cuisine, including baguettes, croissants, cheese, and fine dining.
Brief History: The heart of France’s political, cultural, and economic life, Île-de-France has been a major European power center since medieval times and was home to the French monarchy.
Normandy: Coastal Charm with a Rich History (Comparable to New England)
If the maritime beauty and historic significance of New England call to you, Normandy might be your ideal destination. With an oceanic climate that brings cool winters and mild summers, Normandy offers a relaxed lifestyle amidst rolling farmland, dramatic cliffs, and quaint harbor towns. This region is steeped in history, from medieval castles to the famous D-Day beaches. Whether you enjoy sipping cider, exploring the countryside, or strolling along the coast, Normandy provides the same timeless appeal as coastal Maine or Rhode Island. Major cities include Rouen, Caen, Le Havre, and Cherbourg, all rich in maritime history and cultural heritage.
Geography: Rolling green pastures, dramatic cliffs like Étretat, and long sandy beaches.
Food: Famous for Camembert cheese, cider, Calvados (apple brandy), and seafood.
Brief History: Known for William the Conqueror, Normandy played a crucial role in medieval and WWII history, particularly with the D-Day landings.
Brittany: Rugged Coastlines and Celtic Heritage (Comparable to Maine & Oregon)
For retirees who crave a nature-focused lifestyle with strong community ties, Brittany mirrors the coastal beauty of Maine and Oregon. With its rugged cliffs, windswept beaches, and mild, rainy climate, Brittany is a haven for those who love outdoor activities. Rich in Celtic heritage, the region boasts vibrant festivals, hearty seafood cuisine, and charming fishing villages. If you love exploring rocky coastlines and immersing yourself in local traditions, Brittany’s cultural and natural beauty is a perfect fit. The major cities in Brittany include Rennes, Brest, Quimper, and Saint-Malo, each with its unique blend of culture, history, and seaside charm.
Geography: Wild, rocky coastline with cliffs, small islands, and lush forests inland.
Food: Famous for crêpes, galettes, seafood, and cider.
Brief History: Once an independent Celtic duchy, Brittany retains a unique cultural identity and is one of France’s most distinctive regions.
Grand Est: A Blend of French and German Influences (Comparable to Pennsylvania & Wisconsin)
Grand Est, a region shaped by French and German heritage, is an excellent choice for retirees who appreciate the rich history, hearty cuisine, and changing seasons. Like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, this area experiences cold winters and warm summers. With picturesque vineyards, medieval towns, and a thriving wine industry, Grand Est offers a balance of small-town charm and cultural diversity. This region is an excellent option if you enjoy Christmas markets, traditional comfort food, and easy access to countryside and city life. Strasbourg, Reims, Metz, and Nancy are among the most notable cities, offering a blend of Gothic cathedrals, history, and modern convenience.
Geography: Rolling vineyards, dense forests, and historic towns like Strasbourg.
Food: Hearty dishes, sauerkraut, flammekueche, and white wines like Riesling
Brief History: A long-contested region between France and Germany, Grand Est has a unique identity influenced by both cultures.
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté: Wine Country Meets Countryside (Comparable to Ohio & Michigan)
If you love the rolling vineyards and relaxed lifestyle of the Midwest, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is a wonderful place to retire. This region, known for its world-famous wines, medieval villages, and agricultural roots, shares many qualities with Ohio and Michigan. The pace of life is slow and peaceful, ideal for those who want to enjoy a quiet, rural setting while still having access to excellent food and cultural events. Dijon, Besançon, Beaune, and Auxerre are key cities known for their stunning architecture, culinary excellence, and rich historical significance.
Geography: Rolling hills, forests, and world-famous vineyards.
Food: Renowned for Burgundy wines, escargots, Dijon mustard, and coq au vin
Brief History: A historic duchy that played a key role in medieval France and remains a wine capital.
Centre-Val de Loire: The Land of Châteaux and River Valleys (Comparable to Virginia & Maryland)
For those drawn to history and elegance, Centre-Val de Loire is the French equivalent of Virginia and Maryland. With its mild winters and warm summers, this region is home to some of the most breathtaking châteaux in France. If you love historic estates, scenic river valleys, and fine wine, this refined yet relaxed region offers a fairytale-like retirement setting. Major cities include Tours, Orléans, Blois, and Chartres, each offering a mix of Renaissance architecture, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.
Geography: Lush countryside, river valleys, and picturesque castles.
Food: Goat cheeses, wines, rillettes, and fresh produce
Brief History: Home to the French monarchy’s most beautiful châteaux, including Chambord and Chenonceau.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine: A Blend of Beaches, Wine, and Urban Life (Comparable to California & Texas)
Nouvelle-Aquitaine, home to Bordeaux and the stunning Atlantic coastline is a diverse region perfect for those who love city life and beach retreats. Its oceanic and Mediterranean climate offers warm summers and mild winters. Like California and Texas, it features vibrant cities, an extensive wine region, and surfing-friendly beaches. Nouvelle-Aquitaine has everything, whether you prefer urban culture, seaside relaxation, or vineyard strolls. Dordogne is known for its picturesque villages, rich history, and stunning landscapes, including the Dordogne River and prehistoric cave paintings. Bordeaux, Biarritz, La Rochelle, and Limoges are major cities offering a distinct mix of history, culture, and seaside relaxation.
Geography: Vineyards, long beaches, forests, and the Pyrenees mountains.
Food: Bordeaux wines, foie gras, oysters, and Basque cuisine.
Brief History: A historical trading region, Bordeaux was a key port for wine exportation and retains a vibrant cultural scene.
Occitanie: Sun-Drenched Landscapes and Affordable Living (Comparable to Florida, Arizona, Southern California, the Carolinas & Louisiana)
For retirees seeking a warm climate and laid-back atmosphere, Occitanie is an excellent choice. With hot summers and mild winters, this region echoes Florida, Arizona, Southern California, the Carolinas, and Louisiana. Featuring picturesque medieval villages, rolling vineyards, and scenic beaches, Occitanie offers an affordable cost of living with a slower pace of life. Many expats from these U.S. regions are drawn to its relaxed lifestyle, thriving wine culture, and balance between rural charm and city conveniences. Montpellier and Toulouse’s vibrant history, grand architecture, and proximity to the Mediterranean resemble New Orleans, Charleston, and Savannah. Their charming old town squares and elegant facades evoke the charm of these Southern U.S. cities, while their easy access to the sea offers the best of both worlds.
Geography: Vineyards, medieval towns, and Mediterranean coastline.
Food: Cassoulet, duck confit, and seafood.
Brief History: Once an independent region with its own language, Occitanie was central to the Cathar movement and medieval trade routes.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: Luxury, Culture, and Sun (Comparable to Southern California & Florida)
For those who love luxury, culture, and warm weather, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is a dream destination. Reminiscent of Southern California and Florida, this Mediterranean paradise boasts glamorous beaches, lavender fields, and stunning coastal towns. With world-class art, a vibrant expatriate community, and endless outdoor activities, this region is perfect for retirees who want a sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle. Major cities include Marseille, Nice, Cannes, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, all offering a mix of luxury, history, and Mediterranean charm.
Geography: Lavender fields, olive groves, mountains, and stunning coastline.
Food: Bouillabaisse, Ratatouille, and olive oil-based cuisine.
Brief History: Once part of the Roman Empire, Provence remains a major cultural and luxury destination.
Corsica: Island Life with a French-Italian Flair (Comparable to Hawaii & the Outer Banks)
Corsica offers the same breathtaking scenery and laid-back lifestyle as Hawaii and the Outer Banks for those who want to retire on an island. With a Mediterranean climate, mountainous landscapes, and stunning beaches, Corsica is perfect for those who love nature and solitude. Retirees looking for an off-the-beaten-path retreat with a strong cultural identity will find this island an enchanting home.
Geography: Mountainous with beautiful beaches and small fishing villages.
Food: Charcuterie, chestnuts, fresh seafood, and local cheeses.
Brief History: The birthplace of Napoleon, Corsica, has long fought for cultural and political autonomy.
Pays de la Loire: A Perfect Balance of Coast and Countryside (Comparable to North Carolina & Kentucky)
For retirees who enjoy a mix of coastal charm and historic countryside, Pays de la Loire is an ideal match. With its temperate climate and mild winters, this region offers a beautiful blend of rolling farmlands, the Atlantic coast, and stunning châteaux. If you’re drawn to the relaxed lifestyle of North Carolina or Kentucky, this region offers a similar feel with a touch of French elegance. Nantes, Angers, Le Mans, and Saumur are the main cities, each offering rich cultural heritage, access to the Loire River, and a welcoming atmosphere for retirees.
Geography: Rolling countryside, the Loire River, and the Atlantic coastline.
Food: Famous for Muscadet wine, seafood, and rillettes.
Brief History: Home to several important medieval castles and a key maritime trade region.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts (Comparable to Colorado & Montana)
For retirees who love the mountains and outdoor adventure, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is the perfect choice. With cold winters and warm summers, this region offers world-class skiing, hiking, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Like Colorado and Montana, it is a paradise for those who enjoy an active lifestyle, good food, and stunning mountain views. Lyon, Grenoble, Clermont-Ferrand, and Annecy are the major cities known for their culinary excellence, historic architecture, and access to the Alps.
Geography: The French Alps, dormant volcanoes, and rolling vineyards.
Food: Renowned for cheese, charcuterie, and Rhône Valley wines.
Brief History: A major historical trade route and the birthplace of French gastronomy in Lyon.
Hauts-de-France: Affordable Living with Rich History (Comparable to Minnesota & North Dakota)
Hauts-de-France is an excellent option for retirees looking for an affordable and historically significant place to live. With a cool oceanic climate, a strong industrial heritage, and historic battlefields, this region provides a rich cultural experience at a lower cost. If you enjoy community-driven towns, historic sites, and a relaxed pace of life, Hauts-de-France offers an appealing retirement destination. Major cities include Lille, Amiens, Calais, and Dunkirk, each offering historical significance, affordability, and a close connection to Belgium and the English Channel.
Geography: It is flat, with rolling countryside and important port cities like Calais.
Food: Beer culture, Flemish-inspired dishes, mussels, and fries.
Brief History: Formerly a battlefield region (WWI and WWII), it was a central industrial hub with deep Flemish influences.
Find The Place That Feels Most Like Home
If you plan to retire in France, visit different regions, explore local communities. and see which feels like home. Send me a note if you would like to share your thoughts and findings with others. There’s so much to enjoy about this amazing country; I’m sure you’ll soon feel right at home.
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