Retiring in France as an American might start as a romantic idea: sun-drenched vineyards, fresh baguettes from the boulangerie, weekend strolls through medieval towns. Maybe you visited Nice once, years ago — on a Mediterranean cruise, or during that unforgettable summer vacation. And maybe, ever since then, the idea of retiring in France has lived quietly in the back of your mind.
A sweet, impossible dream.
A fantasy, right?
But then… you stumble upon a story. You hear someone talk about their real life in the French countryside. Maybe you land on a blog post from International Living, or you discover a video like this inspiring interview with an American retiree who shares what it’s really like to move to Paris — the challenges, the joy, the practical steps, and the emotional journey. And suddenly it clicks: people are really doing this. Americans retiring in France, learning the language, figuring out the visa process, navigating the healthcare system — and building a whole new life.
That’s when the fantasy starts to feel real.
And possible.
Every year, more and more Americans are turning that dream into reality. They’re searching for answers: how much money do I need to retire in France? what are the healthcare options for retirees in France? what are the tax implications of retiring to France? Whether you’re looking for the best place to retire in France or trying to understand the 2024 France retirement visa income requirement, the questions are real — but so is the dream.
This message is for you, wherever you are on that journey.
A Personal Message to Those Retiring in France or Just Starting to Dream
Any retirees already living in France or dreaming of France among you?
If so, this message is especially for you.
I hope you’re enjoying this moment, whether you’re already in France or still in your home country.
A new… You?
A new country.
A new culture.
A new language. (Vive le français !)
You packed your bags, but didn’t expect to unpack yourself.
Moving abroad isn’t just a journey… it’s a reinvention.
A new YOU? Oh yes. Oui, Oui!
Let’s face it, this sound like the most exciting project of all.
The ups and downs
Of course, I know it’s not all idyllique and romanesque. This journey also comes with its fair share of challenges: the ups and downs, the infamous French bureaucracy, the endless paperwork, the fear of the unknown, the emotional rollercoaster of adapting to a new life, the many goodbyes… and, of course, this beautiful but tricky new language to learn (ohlala). The concept of masculine and feminine, the impossible r to pronounce, the whole driving-on-the-right story…
It’s worth it
But beyond the hurdles awaits a beautiful adventure: a more affordable healthcare system, the joy of wandering through stunning historical towns, visiting castles, sipping delicious Bordeaux wines that don’t break the bank (hummm… a Saint-Émilion, maybe?), going to the marché du dimanche and chatting with the commerçants while buying a creamy fromage de chèvre au lait cru (I bet you can’t do raw milk in the U.S., right?).
It takes some courage
I think it’s so inspiring that you’ve dared to embark on such a journey. It takes courage. And to me, it shows that you’re choosing to open the doors of retirement wide open, not to slow down, but to keep growing. To keep discovering. To keep evolving.
A new chapter
Maybe living abroad is a new chapter for you. Maybe not. Either way, I’m so happy you’re here — part of this small but growing community, ready to share your story.
Meant to work with you
When I taught my first retired student — from California — I was so moved by our encounters. Being there for her, witnessing her adventurous life, full of anecdotes and reinvention, made me realize how much I wanted to work with you, retirees in France.
Americans Retiring in France: Share Your Story on the Podcast
To celebrate this incredible journey, I’m launching a new podcast series where I interview English-speaking retirees who are already living in France.
We’ll talk about the real stuff: the wins, the surprises, the things no one tells you. The good, the tricky, the very French. It’s relaxed, casual, in English with just a touch of French — and full of heart.
✨ If you’re retired in France and your story might inspire someone else, I’d love to hear from you.
📩 Just send me a message at deborah@feelgoodfrench.com and let’s chat.
You don’t need to be a “perfect expat.” Just be yourself. And if you’d like to connect with fellow retirees in France, join our Facebook community— a place to ask questions, share tips, and connect with others walking the same path:
Connect, Learn, and Be Inspired… You’re Not Alone
Whether you’re preparing to move or already building your life here, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
And this spring, enjoy my special offer: private French lessons for two people on one screen, for the price of one. Perfect for couples or friends who want to learn together. Send a quick message to deborah@feelgoodfrench.com to start or book a discovery call here.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore these articles designed to support and guide Americans retiring in France:
Whatever your pace, whatever your plans, I’m here — cheering for you every step of the way.
Il est temps de vivre ses rêves…
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À très bientôt,
Déborah, Your French Teacher
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