Our Home in Provence Cost $200,000: Affordable Living in France

Curious about what it's like to swap the fast-paced American lifestyle for the charm and tranquility of the South of France? Tuula Rampont did just that, and in this video, she shares her story of why she moved to France.

Discover why she chose the South of France, the hurdles she overcame while adjusting to a new culture, and how slowing down in France has brought her more joy and fulfillment.

Whether you’re planning your own move abroad, living the expat life, or simply curious about what life in France is really like, this video will give you a glimpse into the rewards of a slower, richer lifestyle.

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Thanks for watching!

#southoffrance #movetofrance #expatinfrance

[internationalliving]

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[stephancolantonio]

I would like to write to you to share an observation concerning the growing presence of English-speaking visitors and residents in France. It is with sincere pleasure that I see many English speakers settling and visiting our country, thus contributing to its cultural wealth. However, it seems to me that many of them make little effort to adapt linguistically, often not speaking even basic French.

The French language is at the heart of our cultural identity, and it is essential to promote it to preserve linguistic diversity. I am convinced that everyone would benefit if English speakers in France made more effort to learn and use French in daily life. This would not only facilitate their integration but also encourage a richer and more respectful cultural exchange.

[GinaLawson-yc]

*I wasn't financial free until my 40’s and I’m still in my 40’s, bought my third house already, earn on a monthly through passive income, and got 4 out of 5 goals, just hope it encourages someone's that it doesn’t matter if you don’t have any of them right now, you can start TODAY regardless your age INVEST and change your future! Investing in the financial market is a grand choice I made.*

[inmytravelstoday]

The key to connecting with the French is through their language. The language is the culture and the culture is the language. This is usually my very first lesson that I teach adult learners when I teach French. Without it, you will feel lonely and cast aside.

[kath]

It takes a long time to know us and for us to like people but once we do, it’s forever. And it’s true we do not smile every 5 seconds and we do not find everything awesome for no reason. It’s suspicious to us. But learn the language. That will get you a long way if you want to connect with us 😊

[graerindley]

I have holidayed in France 5 times in my life and I have always had a very pleasant experience, and I don't speak much French. I always try to smile and be friendly, I get on very well with french people in France.

[thehealthinsight]

OMG. When you said you couldnt realize how hectic your life was in SoCal ... as a North East Coaster I literally burst out laughing ... love your video and thanks so much for this extremely useful explanation of living in France!!

[SAGUY]

Thanks for the video. Watched two of them today. Am considering France as a retirement option from the US. Have been in Paris and then spent a week in Provence, and being more of a country guy, I LOVED Provence and the super kind and hospitable French people that we met. Being in California, I definitely appreciate the warmer climate, Olive groves, vineyards, lavender fields and in general the more arid landscape. I appreciate all the info on the visa process . Hoping to do another trip to France in 2025 to scout out more regions .

[uweinhamburg]

We here in Germany use two terms 'Lebensstandard' standard of living - very similar to the US/international usage of the term and 'Lebensqualität' quality of living, an idea much more centered around the topics of your video!
A slower pace of living, a good work/life balance, more focus on having a good time than on having money..

Enjoy France - i hope you never get bored 😃 (and no matter what - continue to learn the language!!)

[guinealove]

Congratulations! I have a small place in Central France that I purchased awhile back as a pied e terre for retirement. It has not been easy but I wouldn't change my decision for anything in the world. Great video

[AlexanderBonello-uu]

What many just do not realise is than in France it is considered rude and an invasion of one's privacy if you just talk to strangers. So absolutely nothing to do with being unfriendly or snobbish. On the contrary, just barging in on strangers is considered rude in France.

[JLTravels]

Tuula, great video! I lived east of you in Le Trayas overlooking the sea — a village close to Cannes. Absolutely agree with your take on life in Provence!

[iandeynzer]

Great video. We briefly stayed in the Le Mourillon area in Toulon on our way to Menton and wished we had stayed longer. A much underrated, less touristy location with beautiful local beaches, lovely picturesque walks, friendly locals and affordable prices for accommodation & meals.

[salestowelpros]

Hello from Santa Barbara! We are visiting Toulouse in mid July. Retiring mid 50's couple and after paying $1700 per month for insurance and paying 5K for cataracts, we are about done with the U.S. system of "for profit" healthcare. We love walking/biking, public transportation, etc. We may apply for the long term visa later this year! Thank you for the great info!

[worldwanderingwoman]

Thank you so much for your information. I am moving to France February 2025 and will be scouring and buying a home as a retiree. Any information you give us helps us so much.

[drTAMU-T]

I visited Cote d’Azure and Paris back in 2010. I was always tying to ask questions and make small talk with the little French I know since high school. Theirs faces would light up and go out their way to be helpful and hospitable. Just respect the local culture and you will go long ways ….😊

[StephanieHughesDesign]

Je ne pourrais pas etre plus d'accord avec toi. Je souhaite a acheter petit maison en sud de la france, aussi. Merci beaucoup pour votre excelente video. Chapeau !

[artbuehler]

Thanks for that information. Even though I have been to France 30+ times, I learned so much! Merci

[ladeutschevitabyGraziaCosta]

I absolutely love the South of France; I feel like I’ve truly found myself there. My hope for the future is to be able to live there. You're living my dream, girl—many blessings to you!

[daniahjean-francois]

Thanks for the video. Planning a live my life in South of France, and have been taking in all these videos.
My only negative feeedback is... you should expect to learn a language when coming to any country for short or long term. The experience is better.