Sun-drenched region in France is a magnet for expats seeking ‘diverse landscapes’ and ‘lower costs’

France's Provence region is popular with expats

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Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 16/05/2024

- 13:54

The region is renowned for its unmatched beauty and slow pace of life

France is a top destination for expats because it offers a significantly higher quality of life than many of its neighbouring countries.

Certain regions hold more allure than others thanks to their slow pace of life and local communities. Fortunately, expats have pinpointed where these regions are.


In a recent clip, expat Skerry Harry offered a breakdown of the best spots in the country for those considering a life abroad.

Among the 12 regions mentioned in the video, Provence Alpes in Cote D’azur was crowned the best region to live in France.

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Provence attracts visitors from around the globe

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“This is the most prime region in France,” said the YouTuber. “Provence is in the South Eastern part, opening up to the Meditteranean Sea. It is best known for its diverse landscapes."

From the southern Alpes in Camargue to rolling vineyards, the region is covered in acres of pine groves and lavender fields.

The southern stretch of the Cote D’Azur, best known as the French Riviera, is home to the glamorous city of Nice and splendid towns such as St Tropez and Cannes.

“The capital of this region is Marseilles, which is famous for its significant cultural outputs and history," noted Skerry.


“This region has been an inspiration for many francophiles wanting to pack their bags and move to France."

However, not everyone can choose to retire anywhere in this region, as the average cost of living in most of its cities in major cities can be high.

“Nonetheless, most people tend to gravitate to the region’s small villages, as they offer lower costs and are famous for their local charm and rustic way of life," noted the YouTuber.

The climate and cultural heritage in the south of France have put the region on the map for many retirees looking to build a new life abroad.

Another region highly recommended by expats is Rennes, which was highlighted in a recent clip by digital nomad entrepreneur Kristin Wilson.

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Nice, France

The South of France is renowned for its slow pace of life

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She said Rennes “was voted the happiest place to live in France by French people in a nationwide survey”, adding: “You’ve got locals vouching for it as well as foreigners.

“An expat newspaper called ‘The Local France’ has also ranked as the best place for foreigners to live for its amenities, cheap housing and small city feel.”

Brittany’s capital is particularly popular with British expats because its proximity to the UK is a bonus for those with business obligations.

“Rennes is also really well connected to other cities in France with multiple trains to Paris daily, and it’s also a great place to immerse yourself in nature, with its rugged coastline, ancient forest and diverse landscapes,” explained Kristin.

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