How a Working in France Could Actually Make You Wealthier

Between healthcare savings, lower taxes, and affordable education, your quality of life — and real wealth — may grow faster in France.

Forget dollar signs—think peace of mind.

1. Healthcare Isn’t a Budget-Buster

In the U.S., the average American spends $12,914/year on healthcare (OECD, 2023).
In France? $5,496/year—and most of that is publicly funded.
Co-pays are tiny, and nearly 92% of French people have top-up insurance (called mutuelle) that covers the rest.

2. Higher Education Won’t Sink You

A four-year college degree in the U.S. can cost over $100,000+—and that’s before grad school.
In France? A year at a top public university costs about €170–€380 in tuition. That’s not a typo.

3. Childcare Is Subsidized

In the U.S., full-time childcare can run $10,000–$15,000 per year per child.
In France, crèches (nurseries) are state-subsidized, and fees are scaled to income. Many families pay just €300–€600/month or less.

4. Public Transport Replaces the Second Car

Americans often rely on two vehicles per household. In France, city infrastructure and walkability mean many families get by with just one—or none.
Monthly metro pass in Paris? €84.10. Try getting around L.A. or Dallas for that.

5. Housing Costs Are Stabilized

Renting in Paris isn’t cheap, but housing costs across France are generally 25–50% lower than major U.S. cities when adjusted for space and services.
Plus, tenants have legal protections and annual rent increases are capped.

6. More Vacation, Less Burnout

Americans average 10–14 vacation days/year—many go unused.
In France, it’s 5 paid weeks minimum, and people take them.
Your time is yours—and no guilt.

7. Food Costs Are Surprisingly Reasonable

Thanks to local markets and food subsidies, a healthy Mediterranean-style diet costs less in France than it would in the U.S.
And yes, a baguette still costs around €1.

8. Retirement Isn’t Just a Dream

The average French retiree doesn’t fear medical bankruptcy. Pensions are stable, and the system is designed to maintain dignity, not just survival.

9. The Mental Load Is Lighter

With fewer hidden costs and less fear around essentials, many French people report lower stress levels and greater life satisfaction (OECD Better Life Index, 2023).

10. You Can Live Without the Hustle

In France, wealth isn’t just what’s in your bank account—it’s time for family, fresh air, shared meals, and yes, village life.
And that’s priceless.