Billionaires in France primarily reside in ultra-exclusive enclaves on the French Riviera, such as Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (the "Peninsula of Billionaires") and Saint-Tropez (specifically Les Parcs), as well as in Paris, particularly the 7th and 16th arrondissements. Other key, high-profile locations include Cap d'Antibes and affluent areas near Bordeaux.
Saint-Tropez, located on the French Riviera, has been a playground for the rich and famous since the 1950s. What was once a quaint fishing village has transformed into a global symbol of glamour, attracting billionaires with its luxurious villas, private beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
In 2024, the top three most expensive cities in France are all seaside resorts on the Côte d'Azur: Ramatuelle (average price of €16,083 per m²), Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (€15,819 per m²), and Saint-Tropez (€14,400 per m²). This ranking, published by FNAIM in July, places all three in the coveted top positions.
If there's one city that consistently earns a reputation for friendliness, it's Montpellier. This youthful, sun-soaked city in Occitanie combines Mediterranean flair with a forward-thinking spirit.
Where is the best place for Brits to live in France?
The Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, particularly the departments of Dordogne, Charente, and Deux-Sèvres, has long been a top destination for British expats. Often nicknamed “Dordogneshire”, this area blends countryside, historic towns, and a well-established English-speaking community.
Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur (PACA) came out on top, with 48% saying they are “completely happy” to be living there. Brittany was also a favourite, at 47%.
1. Paris. Unsurprisingly, Paris tops the list as the most expensive city for real estate in France. As the capital city and a global hub for fashion, culture, and business, Paris remains a dream destination for property buyers.
The UK's economy is currently larger than France's in total GDP, but figures can fluctuate, with some reports suggesting France has slightly overtaken the UK in wealth per capita or by specific metrics, while the UK often shows higher GDP per person in other analyses, highlighting very similar economic standing with comparable GDP per capita and living standards, though France has greater overall household wealth and the UK higher financial asset wealth. Both are major European economies, often ranking closely in global lists for overall size and wealth per person, with recent data showing the UK's GDP slightly ahead (around $3.96 trillion vs France's $3.36 trillion for 2025 estimates) but differing perceptions based on various metrics like GDP per capita or wealth distribution.
As of 2025, the New York metropolitan area is the world's principal fintech and financial centre and the largest metropolitan economy in the world, with a nominal gross metropolitan product of just under US$2.3 trillion. This is a list of cities in the world by nominal gross domestic product (GDP).
Neuilly is mainly made up of residential neighborhoods and hosts several corporate headquarters and foreign embassies. One of the most affluent areas of France, it is the wealthiest and most expensive suburb of Paris.
Alsace is a region in north-eastern France that borders Switzerland and Germany. In fact, it is so close to Germany that you can travel by tram from the regional capital Strasbourg, to Kehl, the nearest German city, in just 15 minutes. Although Alsace is part of France, its borders have not always been clear.
Generally speaking, the cost of living in France is relatively inexpensive compared to the UK. Most retired couples could live comfortably on €3,000 per month (excluding accommodation), although this will depend on location and lifestyle. Housing costs in France vary greatly depending on location.
Paris, Nice, and Lyon stand out as the most English-friendly cities, offering a welcoming atmosphere for expats. To ensure a stress-free move, consider professional removals to France services that can handle all aspects of your relocation, from transportation to customs clearance.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in France?
To live comfortably in France, you'll likely need at least €1,800 – €2,000 per month to live in Paris and around €1,400 – €1,700 in other metropolitan cities.
Seine-Saint-Denis (French pronunciation: [sɛn sɛ̃ d(ə)ni]) is a department of France located in the Grand Paris metropolis in the Île-de-France region. In French, it is often referred to colloquially as quatre-vingt treize or neuf trois ("ninety-three" or "nine three"), after its official administrative number, 93.
Iceland is the country with the least number of cheaters (9%). Some people prefer one-night stands with strangers! In fact, most respondents from Thailand, France, Russia and Australia said they've slept with a stranger behind their partners back.
