The French countryside is attracting a growing number of Americans, who are seeking a different lifestyle and a safer, more inclusive society. This trend has seen the number of Americans settling in France more than triple since the start of the pandemic.
The reasons behind this shift are varied and complex, but many Americans point to a desire for a slower pace of life, a robust healthcare system, and a more stable political environment. The election of Donald Trump as President in 2016 and the events of January 6, 2021, appear to have played a significant role in driving Americans away from their home country.
A Growing Trend
The numbers speak for themselves. The number of first-time residency cards issued to Americans now surpasses those given to people from former French colonies in North Africa. In 2022, over 12,000 residency cards were issued to Americans, placing them as the fourth most common nationality, behind Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This figure surpasses the number of cards issued to Britons, who are now required to apply for residency following Brexit.
This trend is not new. While the peak in residency card applications occurred in 2018, immigration lawyers and experts agree that the decision to move was often made in the wake of the 2016 election. The increase in applications in 2021 and 2022 can likely be attributed to the effects of the pandemic and the easing of travel restrictions.
Why Are Americans Moving to France?
There are numerous reasons why Americans are choosing to make France their new home.
- A Desire for a Slower Pace of Life: Many Americans are seeking a more relaxed and less stressful lifestyle, which they find in the French countryside.
- A Robust Healthcare System: The French universal healthcare system provides access to quality medical care for all citizens, a significant advantage over the American system.
- A Stable Political Climate: The political climate in France, while not without its own challenges, is perceived by many Americans as more stable and less divisive than the current political environment in the United States.
- The Rising Dollar-to-Euro Exchange Rate: The exchange rate between the dollar and the euro has favored Americans in recent years, making it more affordable to live in France.
- The Rise of Remote Work: The shift to remote work has allowed many Americans to maintain their jobs while living abroad, making relocation more feasible.
- Attractive Immigration Policies: The French government has actively encouraged “chosen immigration” for a decade, targeting highly skilled individuals and entrepreneurs, many of whom are Americans.
- Access to a Rich Culture: France offers a rich culture, diverse languages, and a vibrant arts scene, which is a draw for many Americans.
A Shift in American Perspective
The growing number of Americans moving to France reflects a changing perspective on America. Many Americans are disillusioned with the current political climate, the gun violence epidemic, and the lack of social progress in their own country. France, with its robust social safety net, commitment to social justice, and peaceful political system, offers a stark contrast to the current state of affairs in the United States.
The trend of Americans moving to France is likely to continue, fueled by the growing discontent with the current political and social climate in the United States. As the world continues to evolve, France may become an increasingly appealing destination for those seeking a better life for themselves and their families.
