How Much Does It Cost To Move to France From the US?
Fact Checked by: The cost to move to France from the US is typically between $7,000 and $10,000, depending on where in the country you’re moving, the time of year of your move, and how much stuff you have.
Here’s a closer look at costs:
- Shipping options: The cost of moving to France from the US will depend heavily on how you ship your belongings — by sea or by air. Air freight is faster but much more expensive than sea freight.
- Airline tickets: You’ll need to factor in the cost of flying to your new home in France, since international flights can be pricey.
- Visa & residency fees: It costs about $110 per person for a long-stay visa in France.
- Housing: You may need to make arrangements for temporary accommodations — like a hotel or Airbnb — when you first arrive in France if you have already secured permanent housing. Rent in France is typically lower than in the US, but this depends on the city you’re in and kind of housing you want.
- Living expenses: Ideally, you should arrive in France with enough money to cover your first couple months there. This includes start-up costs like rental deposits, as well as utility bills, groceries, and transportation. Healthcare is not free in France and is limited for visa-holders, so you’ll need to budget for private medical coverage.
Keep reading for cost of living comparisons between France and the US, as well expert relocation tips and our picks for the best international movers and car shippers to help get you situated in your new home across the pond.
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Average cost of moving to France from the US
If you’re moving from the US to France, expect to spend $3,500–$6,100 with an international moving company. The lower end of that estimate is for a 20-foot container shipment. You’ll pay closer to $6,100 for a 220-pound air freight delivery.
Just a heads-up: Extra services from your movers will bump that number up. If you want to save, pack yourself instead of paying a pro mover to do it (check our guide to packing for an overseas move for tips). It’s also good to downsize before the move. And if you plan on returning to the states at some point, renting long-term storage in the US might be worth it.
Sea freight costs from the US to France
Most people shipping internationally go with sea freight — it’s usually the most budget-friendly option. Moving companies will typically recommend this route first.
Here’s what it could cost to send a 20-foot container (enough space for most two- to three-bedroom homes) from major US cities to France:
| From | To | Container Cost | Delivery Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC | Paris | $3,070 | 23–38 days |
| Miami | Paris | $3,070 | 29–42 days |
| Los Angeles | Paris | $3,940 | 52–62 days |
| NYC | Marseille | $2,822 | 31–41 days |
| Miami | Marseille | $3,070 | 29–42 days |
| Los Angeles | Marseille | $3,900 | 52–62 days |
Source: Freightos (March 2025)
Air freight costs from the US to France
Air freight is the fastest way to get your stuff overseas, but it’s also the priciest. If you don’t want to wait weeks for your belongings to arrive by sea, consider sending just your essentials by air. It’s a great way to avoid being without the basics while you wait.
Just remember — you’ll have significantly much less space on an airplane than you would with a 20-foot container. A container can handle up to 9,000 pounds of stuff, while air freight is typically limited to 220 pounds maximum.
| From | To | Container Cost | Delivery Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| NYC | Paris | $771–$1,028 | 3–6 days |
| Miami | Paris | $771–$1,028 | 3–6 days |
| Los Angeles | Paris | $915 | 6–8 days |
| NYC | Marseille | $771–$1,028 | 3–6 days |
| Miami | Marseille | $771–$1,028 | 3–6 days |
| Los Angeles | Marseille | $915 | 6–8 days |
Source: Freightos (March 2025)
How much does it cost to live in France?
On the whole, France is cheaper than the US. According to data from Numbeo, monthly living costs are about 6% lower in France. When you add in rent, the savings jump to almost 26%.
That said, salaries in France tend to be lower, too. After taxes, the average monthly income is about $2,483 in France, compared to $4,373 in the US — a 76% difference.
Housing costs in France
Renting in France is much more affordable than in the US. The national average for rent on a one-bedroom apartment within city limits in France is $768, almost $1,000 less a month than the US average of $1,742. Of course, the cost of housing will vary depending on where in France you decide to live, with major cities being naturally pricier than smaller towns and rural areas.
If you’re looking to buy a home in France, property values per square foot can be a lot higher.
| Apartment | Atlanta | Lyon | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR rental | $1,812 | $1,010 | +44.3% |
| 3BR rental | $3,067 | $1,895 | –53.9% |
| Price per sq. ft. (for purchase) | $253 | $609 | +140.6% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Lyon and Atlanta (March 2025)
To rent as an American in France, make sure you’ve got all your documents in order.
You’ll typically need:
- A valid passport or ID
- Proof of employment
- Bank statements or proof of funds
- Your visa certificate
- Rental history (if available)
Not sure where to live? These cities are top picks for American expats:
- Lyon: While pricey by French standards, Lyon is still a favorite for expats thanks to its food scene and cultural events.
- Paris: It’s no surprise Paris is a top choice — world-class amenities, great public transit, and a huge international community make it a popular landing spot.
- Nice: Located on the southern coast, Nice has great weather, solid healthcare, and efficient public transportation.
Utilities costs in France
Utility bills tend to be higher in France, but internet and phone plans are a lot more affordable than in the US.
| Utility | Atlanta | Lyon | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| *Basic housing utilities | $193.35 | $267.54 | +38.4% |
| Internet | $71.37 | $35.19 | –50.7% |
| Monthly cell phone plan | $57.65 | $22.97 | –60.2% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Lyon and Atlanta (March 2025)
*Based on the combined cost of electricity, water/sewer, and trash for a 915 square foot apartment (March 2025)
Food costs in France
Eating out is generally a little cheaper in France, especially at sit-down restaurants. However, some grocery staples like beef, cheese, and milk can cost more.
It should be noted that, while you’re paying more, you’re also likely getting a much better product, since France follows stringent regulations on food safety and quality and promotes locally sourced meat, dairy, and produce.
| Food | Atlanta | Lyon | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast food meal | $12 | $11.96 | –0.3% |
| 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant | $90 | $70.68 | +21.5% |
| Gallon of milk | $3.92 | $5.40 | +37.9% |
| 1 dozen eggs | $4.07 | $3.96 | –2.8% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Lyon and Atlanta (March 2025)
Transportation costs in France
Like many EU countries, France has an excellent public transportation system, so having a car is not necessarily a must (unless you plan to travel the country or live in a remote locale). Gas is much higher in France — even more incentive to take a tram, train, or taxi wherever you need to go.
| Transportation Mode | Atlanta | Lyon | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-way public transit ticket | $2.50 | $2.17 | –13% |
| Monthly public transit pass | $95 | $78.30 | –17.6% |
| One gallon of gas | $3.26 | $7.31 | +124.3% |
| New car* | $25,641 | $34,812 | +35.8% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Lyon and Atlanta (March 2025)
*Based on the cost of Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort or equivalent new vehicle (March 2025)
Education costs in France
Education is one of the areas where you’ll see major savings. Even though France didn’t make our top five list of best countries for families, the fact that both preschool and private elementary schools are so affordable may appeal to parents wanting to pick up roots and raise their kids overseas.
| Type of Education | Full-day private preschool/kindergarten (monthly) | International primary school (annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | $1,363 | $27,345 |
| Lyon | $609 | $11,237 |
| % Difference | –55.3% | –58.9% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Lyon and Atlanta (March 2025)
France’s visa & immigration requirements
To move to France, you’ll first need a residence permit, also known as a VLS-TS visa. This will allow you to live and work in the country for up to one year. After that initial year, you can apply for a multi-year residency permit, but the duration will depend on your stated purpose for living in France.
Here are the main types of residence permits in France:
- Student: Visas can be renewed for the length of your studies in France
- Work: For people who already have a job lined up in France. Your employer will apply for this permit on your behalf, but you’ll have to provide documentation, including proof of housing, financial means, and health insurance.
- Family reunification: To join family members who are French citizens or legal residents.
France also offers a “Talent Passport,” a unique visa that targets high-value foreign employees and self-employed foreign nationals. If you can demonstrate that you’ll be able to make a significant contribution to France — whether economically, culturally, or through innovations in science, technology, and other fields — you’ll get a four-year residence permit.
While most visas come with travel restrictions, the Talent Passport allows you to travel for up to six months to any country in the Schengen Area. Spouses and children of Talent Passport holders are granted automatic access to live and work in France, as well.
You’ll need to validate your visa within three months of arriving in France, and you’ll also have to sign a document promising to follow French laws. If you’re thinking long-term, you can apply for permanent residency after five years.
Moving to France from the US
Before anything else, try to lock down a job (if applicable) and a place to live. Many landlords in France won’t consider your rental application without proof of employment or income, so getting that sorted early will make the whole process smoother.
Once you’ve secured work (remote or local), applied for your VLS-TS visa, and figured out where you want to live, it’s time to start getting quotes from international movers.
Top international moving companies
Moving to a new country is a big deal, and hiring an experienced moving company can make a world of difference. The best international movers take a lot of the stress off your plate by arranging and tracking your overseas shipment, handling customs clearance and other hurdles, and providing you with helpful international relocation resources.
We like these companies for your move from the US to France:
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Shipping your vehicle to France
If you decide to bring your ride with you, some moving companies — like JK Moving Services and International Van Lines — can handle shipping your car overseas as part of your total moving package. You can also check with independent auto shippers for more options and, potentially, lower rates.
Start by getting quotes from these top-rated car shipping companies:
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Tips for moving to France from the US
Moving internationally takes planning—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Get ahead of the chaos by mapping out a strategy early on.
Here are some tips to help things go smoothly:
- Handle packing yourself. Taking your time to pack lets you stay organized and saves money on moving services.
- Declutter first. The less you bring, the less you’ll pay. Plus, starting fresh in a new country feels great.
- Compare moving quotes. Don’t go with the first quote you get — shop around with at least three pro movers to find the best services for the best price.
- Secure work and housing early. Getting a job offer or a place to live upfront makes your visa process and overall move much easier.
FAQ
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