If retiring in France has captured your imagination, you’re not alone. I know the feeling. One visit to Uzès, a medieval village in the South of France, and I was hooked. I found myself dreaming of France as more than a vacation place. I envisioned spending the rest of my life roaming through markets bursting with fresh fruits and vegetables, enjoying leisurely meals at cafés, and sharing a glass of wine with new friends. Fortunately, a solo adventure to an unknown place turned into a whole new chapter of my life.
Before taking the plunge, here are 10 essential questions to ask yourself:
1. Why France?
It’s Not for Everyone
After more than a decade living in France, I’ve experienced both the dream and the reality. For those of you thinking about a move—especially if you’re over 55—it’s not just about finding a pretty village or spending time traveling to Paris and Provence. It’s about fitting into a new world, adapting to a different pace, and being prepared for the legal, financial, and emotional realities that come with moving to the country. There are aspects of France that make it unique, which is the reason so many wish to call it their own. On the other hand, it’s not your home, your language, your customs, nor your routine—and that takes getting used to. Moving to France is as much an internal journey as it is a change of address. Understanding this balance is key to making your dream a reality.
2. Will I Fit In?
What Kind of Person Thrives in France?
The kind of person who thrives in France is someone with quiet confidence and a genuine willingness to listen and observe before diving in. The French may not open up quickly, but their connections run deep once trust is established. Patience and practicality are essential, as life here follows its own rhythm.
What has helped me adjust to France is respecting the deep-rooted traditions—from the sacredness of meals to the way neighbors greet each other. This isn’t the place to try to reinvent the wheel. There’s a special kind of beauty in embracing how things have been done for generations, and that’s where you truly start to feel at home.
If you need fast service, big parking spaces, and English everywhere, France may wear you down.
If you’ve traveled or lived abroad before, you’re ahead of the game. You already know the thrill—and the challenge—of cultural differences. As for the language, even basic French goes a long way. Don’t wait to be perfect. Locals appreciate the effort, and sometimes, a smile and a well-timed “bonjour” are all you need to get by. Life is easier when you can read signs, explain yourself at the doctor’s office, and follow conversations. Most locals won’t expect perfection—they’ll appreciate effort. Be prepared to study. Practice every day. Full immersion takes years, not months.
3. Can I Cope With Bureaucracy?
In France, Bureaucracy is Real
Nothing happens quickly. Whether you’re opening a bank account, applying for a visa, or getting utilities turned on, there will be forms, appointments, and often a period of silence between steps. Bureaucracy is unavoidable. Keep your sense of humor intact. France is a rule-based country. You need to follow the process, in the right order, with the right documents. Don’t expect workarounds or personal exceptions. I’ve spent entire mornings getting questions answered about my bank statement. C’est la vie.
4. How Important is Connecting with Family?
Logistics Can Be Complicated
If you’re retired or semi-retired, relocating to France often means being far from your children, grandchildren, or elderly parents. For some, that’s fine—France is an easy flight from most U.S. cities. For others, it creates real emotional and financial tension.
Like many of you, I have grandchildren. I miss them every day. However, I’ve learned how to stay connected through video chats and extended visits. Some of my favorite memories are of showing my children and grandchildren around Uzès, letting them fall in love with my adopted home. Be honest with yourself about how often you’ll travel back. Consider the cost and differences in airfare and time zones when planning phone calls and visits. Ensure your finances can support regular visits to see family.
5. How Did My Trial Stay Go?
Try it First
How did your trial stay feel? Did everyday life—like shopping at local markets or settling into a new routine—match what you imagined.
Living through different seasons and in various towns can reveal a lot about what really suits you. Recognizing how you managed during your trial stay helps determine if France is truly calling you. Spending time in France, even for a few months, can be a game-changer.
6. Can I Afford It?
France can be more affordable than the U.S., depending on where you live and your lifestyle. Many Americans live comfortably on retirement savings or fixed incomes, but budgeting carefully is essential. I chose Uzès for its charm and livability, and found it less expensive than life back home. However, even with careful planning, unexpected costs are an inevitable part of life in France.
Healthcare is a Plus
One of the biggest upsides of living in France is the healthcare system. Once you’re a resident, you’ll gain access to one of the best systems in the world. Affordable, accessible, and comprehensive—it’s a huge relief.
Costs are lower than in the U.S., and quality is high. You’ll need to qualify for coverage, usually after several months of residency, but many expats say this alone makes the move worthwhile. Private supplemental insurance (mutuelle) fills in the gaps. Pharmacies are readily available, and prescriptions are generally affordable.
What’s generally cheaper in France:
- Healthcare
- Groceries
- Public transportation
What can surprise you:
- Energy bills
- Repairs and home maintenance bills
- Currency exchange losses if your income is in dollars
7 . Will I Adapt to the Culture?
The French Are Different
Understand that you’re not just moving to a new place—you’re stepping into a new mindset. And once you let go of rushing, you may wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
The French aren’t rude—they’re formal. They start every conversation with “Bonjour.” The good news? If you’re respectful, people will welcome you. If you’re demanding, they won’t. Learn how to navigate shop etiquette, restaurant customs, and local politics. Don’t ask personal questions right away. Servers won’t rush you out of a café. Everything closes for lunch.
8. Can I Manage Daily Life?
Will Physical Mobility Be an Issue?
French towns are often centuries old. That means stairs, cobblestones, and limited accessibility. If you have mobility issues or expect to in the future, you’ll need to choose your home carefully.
Do I Have the Patience?
France teaches you to slow down. It’s not always convenient. But if you learn to adapt—and stop trying to “fix” things to match what you left behind—you may find that life in France is not only possible, but better.
9. How Will I Handle the Unexpected?
No matter how much you plan, surprises happen—whether it’s a health issue, changes in visa rules, or sudden home repairs. Are you prepared to face challenges far from your usual support network? Flexibility and resilience are key to making retirement in France truly work.
10. How Do I Build a Life in France?
Moving to France isn’t just about finding a place to live—it’s about creating a new daily rhythm and finding your place in the community. I found some of my closest friends through French lessons and cooking classes, where shared experiences made conversations flow naturally. Joining expat groups also helped me connect with others navigating the same journey.
Whether it’s playing pétanque with locals, exploring markets, or attending village festivals, building a life here means embracing opportunities to meet people and discovering what brings you joy in your new home.
Final Word
France isn’t a fantasy. It’s a real place, with its own systems, challenges, and people who live their lives with deep roots. If you come prepared with the facts, the documents, and the right mindset, you can do it.
I did. It took time. I made mistakes. But it was so worth it.
One Response
Thank you dear Deborah! I love how you’ve worked out the crucial points. And Uzés is so lovely.
With friendly greetings from Augsburg, Bavaria.
Susanne