Thinking about moving to France? It’s easy to see why so many people dream of starting a new life there. Whether you’re craving world-class cuisine, drawn to the quality of life, or dreaming of truly understanding French culture, somewhere there’s a city that will feel like home.
You may be looking for the tranquility of small towns, or prefer bustling metropolitan areas. Either way, we’ve got you covered; here’s Remitly’s list of France’s best cities for USA expats.
Table of contents
Why these cities?
We chose these places based on what matters most to expats:
- Welcoming international communities.
- Affordable cost of living with great amenities.
- Strong job opportunities and high-quality international schools.
- Diverse lifestyle options.
- Easy access to neighboring European countries like Spain and Italy.
Let’s dive in!
Paris—the City of Lights and endless opportunities
Paris is more than the Eiffel Tower and chic cafes. It’s the largest city in France, a global powerhouse of culture, business, and education.
Pros
- A well-connected public transportation system makes getting around easy.
- Strong expat community with networking opportunities.
- Calendar filled with cultural events and lively nightlife.
- Easy access to other European capitals such as London.
Cons
- Expensive living costs that challenge even well-prepared budgets.
- A fast-paced lifestyle that isn’t for everyone.
From its storied past to its modern-day buzz, it’s no wonder that Paris is a top pick amongst expats.
Lyon—an affordable culinary haven
France’s capital of gastronomy offers a slice of authentic French culture and cuisine without the Parisian price tag.
Pros
- Budget-friendly living with excellent public transportation and services.
- A world-renowned food scene, from traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in the “bouchons” to Michelin-starred dining.
- Easy access to the natural beauty of the Rhône region and outdoor activities in the Alps.
Cons
- The weather can feel a little gloomy in winter.
- Fewer English speakers compared to Paris.
Overall, in Lyon you get the best of both worlds—fantastic culture, affordable prices, and immense natural beauty.
Nice—the Côte d’Azur’s crown jewel
With its sun-drenched Mediterranean climate and French Riviera glamor, Nice is a dream for anyone craving outdoor adventures and a chilled-out atmosphere.
Pros
- Endless sunshine and access to the Mediterranean Sea allow for a year-round outdoor city life.
- Fresh food markets and a breathtaking coastline.
- Close proximity to Monaco, the Pyrenees, and the French and Italian Alps for easy European exploration.
Cons
- Crowds of tourists can be overwhelming during peak summer months.
- Coastal property prices are significantly higher than in inland areas.
Nice offers a transformative lifestyle opportunity, with a chance to explore Europe’s most coveted coastline and a quality of life that balances leisure and adventure.
Toulouse—the Pink City
Known as La Ville Rose for its iconic pink-toned architecture, France’s fourth-largest city is also home to a thriving aerospace industry.
Pros
- Home to Airbus, driving a robust tech job market with global job opportunities.
- Significantly lower living costs compared to Paris, perfect for budget-conscious expats.
- A lively nightlife scene, thanks in part to a large student population.
Cons
- Toulouse’s inland location and the Pyrenees mountains mean summer heat can get quite intense.
- Limited English-speaking infrastructure outside professional and expat networks.
In Toulouse, France’s aerospace hub, you can enjoy a strong job market paired with plenty of sunshine and a thriving social scene.
Bordeaux—elegance, wine and relaxed living
Bordeaux is synonymous with world-class wine but has so much more to offer. Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the pace of life here is refreshingly relaxed.
Pros
- Affordable housing compared to Paris and the south of France.
- Stunning vineyard landscapes and outdoor adventures on your doorstep.
- A growing expat community and proximity to the Atlantic coast.
Cons
- The relaxed pace might frustrate high-energy professionals.
- Nightlife options are more limited compared to larger metropolitan areas.
In Bordeaux, sophisticated European living meets an affordable, laid-back lifestyle surrounded by history and natural beauty.
Strasbourg—the crossroads of European cultures
Located at the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg combines both cultures in the best way possible.
Pros
- Thriving job market, especially within EU institutions.
- The old town is straight out of a storybook, with canals and cobblestone streets.
- There’s always something going on, with a rich calendar of cultural events year-round.
Cons
- Winters can get pretty chilly.
- The expat scene is smaller compared to bigger cities.
Strasbourg, much like similarly sized Lille, has the perfect mix of international vibes and small-town charm that makes it feel like home.
Rennes—affordable living with Breton charm
Tucked away in the heart of Brittany, Rennes balances medieval charm, outdoor green spaces, and historical significance.
Pros
- Surprisingly affordable cost of living and excellent healthcare.
- Access to gorgeous coastal scenery, outdoor activities, and Nantes for weekend adventures.
- A growing community of expatriates means you’ll hear more English than you might expect.
Cons
- The rain can feel never-ending at times.
- Very limited international travel options; you’ll probably have to head to one of the nearest major cities first.
Rennes is a hidden gem for families and retirees who want a laid-back lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Key tips for Americans moving to France
Making the move to France is an exciting adventure, but there are a few essentials you need to know before packing your bags.
Important legal stuff: First things first, you’ll need the right visa for your situation, whether it’s for work, study, or retirement. Make sure to register for France’s healthcare system once you arrive. It’s affordable and recommended, but you need to sign up to access it.
Cultural tips: While many French people speak English, learning some basic French phrases will go a long way in helping you settle in and feel welcomed. And keep in mind, French bureaucracy operates at its own (often slow) pace, so patience is key when dealing with paperwork.
Cost-saving tips: To save money on groceries, stick to shopping at local markets and opt for seasonal produce instead of imported goods. French people are very in tune with what produce is available at what time of year, so follow their example.
Renting outside the city center is another way to keep your housing costs manageable while still enjoying the lifestyle.
Quick wins for settling in: Use apps like Meetup or join Facebook groups to connect with local expats. Signing up for a local language class isn’t just a surefire way to improve your French—it’s also a fantastic way to meet new people and feel at home faster.
Check out our guide on how to open a bank account in France for a seamless process. And don’t forget, if you’re relocating overseas, let Remitly help you stay connected with secure, simple money transfers.
FAQs
American expats tend to gravitate toward Paris, Nice, and other French cities that have strong international communities and networking opportunities.
The South of France is another top choice for retirees, with regions like the Dordogne and Aix-en-Provence, and cities like Marseille and Montpellier, offering a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
It depends on your priorities. Lyon, Bordeaux, and Toulouse are popular destinations for their balance of affordability, rich culture and excellent quality of life.
France has a bit of everything, whether it’s the modern energy of a historic city, the charm of a countryside village or the glamor of the French Riviera.