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The True Cost of Living in France in 2026 (With Real Examples)
One of the biggest questions anyone asks before moving to France is simple: how much does it actually cost to live there? The answer is… it depends. France can be surprisingly affordable in some areas and significantly more expensive in others. Paris and the south coast sit at the higher end, while rural regions and smaller towns offer far better value. But to give you a realistic picture, let’s break it down properly using real 2026 figures across the key areas that matter
A New Life
May 293 min read
Is France Expensive to Live In?
It’s one of the most common questions people ask when considering a move: is France actually expensive to live in? The honest answer is… it depends. France can be both surprisingly affordable and unexpectedly costly, often at the same time. Your lifestyle, location, and expectations will play a huge role in determining your monthly outgoings. In this guide, we’ll break down the real cost of living in France, from housing and groceries to healthcare and lifestyle, so you can d
A New Life
May 184 min read
What a Typical Day Looks Like Living in Rural France
For many people dreaming of moving to France, it’s not just about the house or the location. It’s about the lifestyle. It’s the idea of slower mornings, fresh food, open space, and a rhythm of life that feels more balanced and more enjoyable. But what does that actually look like day to day? While every experience is different, here’s a realistic glimpse into what a typical day might feel like when you’re living in rural France. A Slower Start to the Morning Mornings in rural
A New Life
May 133 min read
Winter vs Summer in France: What Expats Should Expect
One of the most common surprises for people moving to France is just how different life feels between summer and winter. France is not one climate or one lifestyle. It changes dramatically with the seasons, especially if you are living in rural areas or smaller towns. Understanding these differences is important, not just for comfort, but for deciding where in France you want to live and whether the lifestyle suits you year-round. Here’s a realistic look at what expats can ex
A New Life
May 64 min read
Happy Families
Following the isolation felt by so many people during the Covid lockdowns where extended families were not allowed to see each other, there followed a huge wave of clients looking to buy properties that offered the chance of multi-generational living. The opportunity for grand-parents, parents and children to live together and make up for lost family time from Covid proved extremely tempting for both French and international clients alike. Since then, rising living costs and
Beaux Villages Immobilier
May 16 min read
Buying in France? Watch Out for Solar Farms
This week on A New Life in France, Phil is back to talk about an increasingly important topic for buyers — solar farms in France and the potential impact they can have on property. 🌞🇫🇷 As renewable energy projects become more common across the country, it’s important to understand how nearby solar developments could affect your property purchase, lifestyle, and even future resale value. If you’re considering buying in France, this is a topic worth understanding before maki
A New Life
Apr 261 min read
City vs Countryside: Where Should You Live in France?
One of the most exciting parts of planning your move to France is choosing where to live. But it can also be one of the most difficult decisions. Do you picture yourself sipping coffee in a bustling town square, surrounded by cafés and culture? Or are you drawn to quiet mornings, rolling countryside, and a slower pace of life? France offers both in abundance, and each comes with its own lifestyle, costs, and social dynamics. The key is finding what suits you . Let’s explore
A New Life
Apr 194 min read
Easter in France: What to Expect When Living Here
Easter in France is a slow unfolding of spring, faith, food, and family, woven together with centuries of tradition and just enough whimsy to make it uniquely French. It is quieter than Christmas, less flamboyant than summer festivals, yet somehow richer in atmosphere. To experience Easter in France is to witness a country gently waking from winter, guided by church bells, chocolate, and long, lingering meals. A Season of Bells, Silence, and Return In France, Easter ( Pâques)
A New Life
Apr 14 min read
Christmas Markets in France
A Winter Tradition of Light, Warmth & Timeless Magic Every winter, as the nights draw in and the first frosts dust the rooftops, France transforms into a country of glowing chalets, spiced aromas, and festive bustle. Christmas markets— les marchés de Noël —are now synonymous with the French holiday season. But behind the mulled wine and twinkling lights lies a tradition steeped in centuries of history, regional pride, and a deep cultural love for craftsmanship and convivialit
A New Life
Dec 10, 20255 min read
Getting Internet in France: What to Expect in Cities, Towns & Rural Areas
When you move to France—whether to a Paris apartment, a peaceful village in Dordogne, or a farmhouse deep in the countryside—one of the first practical questions you’ll face is: How do I get reliable internet? France is well connected compared with many European countries, with one of the fastest fibre-optic rollouts in the EU. But the experience can vary dramatically depending on where you live. From ultra-fast fibre in cities to creative solutions like 4G routers and Starli
A New Life
Dec 3, 20254 min read
Bin Collection & Déchèteries in France: How Waste Disposal Really Works
Moving to France comes with many charming discoveries — village markets, quiet mornings, long lunches — and then a few practical realities. One of the most important (and often most confusing) day-to-day systems to understand is how bin collection and waste disposal works . France takes recycling and waste management seriously, but the rules differ from one region to another, and newcomers often find themselves wondering: When do the bins go out? Why are there no wheelie bins
A New Life
Nov 19, 20254 min read
A look at skiing in France - A full guide
🏔️ The History of Skiing in France Skiing in France has deep roots that blend tradition, innovation, and a touch of Alpine romance. What began as a practical means of winter travel evolved into a national passion and a cornerstone of France’s mountain culture. Early Beginnings The origins of skiing in France trace back to the late 19th century , when Scandinavian influences reached the French Alps. Norwegian officers stationed in the Jura mountains introduced wooden skis as
A New Life
Nov 12, 20256 min read
The Weather in France – A Country of Contrasts
France is blessed with an extraordinary variety of climates, making it one of Europe’s most geographically and meteorologically diverse countries. From the sun-baked shores of Provence to the misty Atlantic coast and the snow-capped Alps, the weather can change dramatically from one region to another. Understanding these regional variations helps not only with planning your move, but also with choosing the lifestyle that best suits you. 🇫🇷 The Four Main Climate Zones 1. Oce
A New Life
Nov 12, 20253 min read
Visiting and Living in the Lot, France
Set in the heart of south-western France, the Lot (department 46) is a place of timeless beauty where history, nature and a slower rhythm of life blend effortlessly. Named after the river that winds its way through dramatic gorges, medieval villages and fertile valleys, the Lot captures the very essence of rural France — tranquil, welcoming, and full of quiet surprises. A Landscape of Rivers and Limestone Cliffs The Lot’s landscapes are breathtakingly varied. To the north, t
A New Life
Oct 28, 20254 min read
Finding the Perfect Apartment in Nice: A Comprehensive Guide
Nice, the sun-drenched gem of the Côte d’Azur, is renowned for its turquoise sea, grand Belle Époque architecture, vibrant markets, and...
A New Life
Jul 30, 20253 min read
Le Tour de France: The Ultimate Test of Human Endurance and National Pride
Every summer, the roads of France—and sometimes its neighbouring countries—become the stage for one of the most grueling and spectacular...
A New Life
Jul 21, 20254 min read
Bastille Day: A History and Celebration of French Freedom
Bastille Day, or La Fête Nationale as it’s officially known in France, is celebrated every 14th of July. It marks the anniversary of the...
A New Life
Jul 14, 20253 min read
10 Wonderfully French Things That Will Surprise You (In the Best Way)
So you’ve packed up your life and headed to France or maybe you’re still dreaming about it from your kitchen table with a croissant in...
A New Life
Jun 24, 20254 min read
Your First Month in France: What to Do (and What Not to Panic About)
So, the move is done. The boxes are (mostly) unpacked, you’ve had your first croissant in a proper French boulangerie, and now you’re...
A New Life
Jun 18, 20254 min read
Do You Need to Speak French in Paris?
Paris is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, attracting millions of visitors and expats every year. If you're planning a...
A New Life
May 27, 20251 min read
Obtaining a SIRET number
Demystifying the Process: Obtaining a SIRET Number in France to Start Your Business Starting a business in France is an exciting...
A New Life
Key difference between estate agents in France compared to UK
The big difference between UK and France is most agents in France are self-employed. Commission only self-employed estate agents. And...
Chris Summers
Step one in your journey to France
Embarking on Your French Adventure Congratulations on taking the exciting decision to move to France! Whether you're drawn to the...
A New Life
Exploring the charms of Bellac
A Guide to Life in this Quaint French Town Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Limousin region, Bellac beckons with its idyllic...
A New Life
TOP 4 POSTS:
Discover the latest insights and inspirations from our top posts on the New Life Blog! Explore a wealth of valuable information and engaging narratives that illuminate the journey to a new life in France. From practical tips to inspiring stories, our top posts offer a comprehensive guide to navigating the joys and challenges of relocation.
Are you considering a move to France and not sure where to start?
Welcome to the New Life in France blog, your go-to destination for a wealth of insights, stories, and practical guides to living your best life in France. Regularly updated with contributions from collaborators, experts, and real-life experiences on the ground, our blog offers a comprehensive resource for anyone considering or embarking on the journey of relocation. From simple how-tos to in-depth guides covering everything from finding a home and navigating the French rental market to starting a business and embracing the local culture, we've got you covered.
Have a topic in mind that we haven't covered yet? Drop us an email, and we'll work on bringing you the information you need. Join us as we explore the diverse facets of life in France and discover the possibilities that await you in your new adventure!
A NEW LIFE IN FRANCE
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