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Moving to Cannes, France | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Cannes, France

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 02, 2023

Summary: Expats move to Cannes, France for its beautiful Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. The city is known for its luxury lifestyle, with a wide range of high-end restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Cannes is also a popular destination for business travelers, as it is home to many international conferences and events. Additionally, the city offers excellent educational opportunities, with a number of international schools and universities.

French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

What do I need to know before moving to Cannes?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cannes, they said:

"1. Be prepared to embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle; Cannes is a quaint seaside town with a healthy subtropical climate, surrounded by beaches and warmer temperatures year-round. 2. Cannes is the second largest French city after Paris and is known for its nightlife and festivals, such as the Cannes Film Festival. Be ready to take part in the cultural festivities. 3. English is widely spoken in Cannes, however French is the official language and learning some of the basics can help make everyday interactions smoother. 4. The cost of living in Cannes is relatively high, but the city offers public transport and other amenities to make life simpler. 5. Healthcare services in Cannes are of a high standard and there are many public and private health providers for residents and expats alike. 6. While Cannes has great food, some items can be expensive, so it's wise to explore the local markets for a more cost-effective diet. 7. If you are moving to Cannes from another country, be sure to check all the necessary visa and immigration requirements before arriving," remarked one expat in Cannes, France, France.

How do I find a place to live in Cannes?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Cannes is a popular destination for tourists and film industry professionals alike. As such, there are a variety of housing options available in the city. One way to find a place to live in Cannes is to search online classifieds, such as Airbnb and Airbnb Experiences, where locals, expats, and tourists are all advertising short-term and long-term rental options. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in Cannes who can help you find the best housing options in the city. Of course, you can always reach out to friends, family, and colleagues who may already have connections in the area and may be able to help you find the perfect place. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect place to live in Cannes and make the most of your stay in the beautiful city," said one expat in Cannes, France.

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We are the best possible negotiator to help our expatriate clients to safely, efficiently and effectively find the right property in the right place in the French Riviera. Whether buying or renting, French Riviera House Hunting's objective is to find the best place for you, making sure that there are no hidden problems in the acquisition or renting process!

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cannes?

"Expat homes and apartments in Cannes tend to be centered in tranquil, tree-lined neighborhoods, and range from traditional stone buildings with terracotta tiled roofs to sleek, modern complexes with swimming pools and communal spaces. Many of the available properties have stunning views of the bay, the skyline and the nearby mountains, as well as excellent amenities such as balconies and terraces, gardens, and spacious interiors with large windows that offer plenty of natural light. In addition, living in Cannes provides access to a variety of leisure activities, including the picturesque beaches, mountain trails, exciting nightlife, and the numerous shopping and dining options in the area," said one expat in Cannes, France.

What is the average cost of housing in Cannes?

If you are thinking about moving to Cannes, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Cannes, can vary greatly depending on the size, location and type of property. Generally, buyers can expect to pay an average price for a two-bedroom apartment of somewhere between 950 and 1300 euros per month, plus an additional one-time charge in real estate fees. Prices for larger properties tend to be much higher than this," explained one expat living in Cannes, France, France.

Should I buy or rent a home in Cannes?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Cannes, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"If you are looking for a more long-term investment and commitment, then buying a home in Cannes could be the right choice for you. The area has a lot to offer, from its stunning Mediterranean coastline, to its rich and vibrant culture, and the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of Cannes itself. On the other hand, if you are not interested in making a long-term commitment and just want to experience Cannes for a shorter period of time, then renting a home may be the better option. Renting can also give you more flexibility and the ability to move around more easily if desired," explained one expat living in Cannes, France, France.

What should I pack when moving to Cannes?

We asked people living in Cannes to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Cannes, it is important to pack the right items to make your transition as smooth as possible. Make sure to pack warm, comfortable clothing for the cooler winter months as well as for the slightly milder summers. Bring formal yet stylish clothing for any occasions where semi-formal attire may be required. Don't forget to pack basics such as towels, toiletries, and any electronics you'd like to bring with you. Pack a universal travel adapter to make charging your electronics easy. Also make sure to bring essential documents such as your passport, almost empty luggage to fill with souvenirs, and a photo ID for identification purposes," commented one expat who made the move to Cannes, France.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cannes?

We asked people in Cannes if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be respectful of local customs when visiting a foreign country. In Cannes, remember to always use polite language when speaking to someone and to be mindful of when it is appropriate to speak. Never comment on someone's appearance or make negative remarks about another culture. Additionally, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees in public, and avoid kissing and hugging in public, as this can be considered too intimate. Pay attention to when it is customary to use a certain form of address, as this can vary from culture to culture. Finally, remember to be patient and kind when requesting help from local shop-keepers and other officials, as this will make for a friendlier interaction," remarked one expat who made the move to Cannes, France.

Why do people move to Cannes?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Cannes, they responded:

"Cannes is an incredibly desirable location to live due to its vibrant culture and stunning beaches. Its position near the Mediterranean Sea makes it a great place to explore, while its close proximity to other French cities and Italy, Monaco and Switzerland offers many opportunities for adventure. With all the luxury of the French Riviera, Cannes is an attractive option for expats who are looking for the perfect combination of lifestyle, culture and comfort. Cannes is a land of opportunity, offering jobs in the tourism or service sectors, or the chance to start a business in the vibrant city centre. The city also hosts many international events and festivals throughout the year, which make it an ideal destination for expats looking for exciting and diverse experiences," replied one expat when asked about moving to Cannes.

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How are healthcare services Cannes?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cannes, they replied:

"Cannes offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens and visitors. The city has several public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The public hospitals in Cannes are run by the French National Health Service and offer free or low-cost medical care. Private hospitals and clinics offer more specialized services, such as cosmetic surgery, and may charge higher fees. In addition, Cannes has a number of pharmacies, opticians, and other health-related services. The city also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care," said one expat living in Cannes, France.

What are medical services in Cannes like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cannes, they replied:

"Cannes offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide a variety of treatments and services, including general medicine, emergency care, and specialized care. There are also a number of pharmacies located throughout the city, providing access to medications and other medical supplies. Additionally, Cannes has a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, from general check-ups to more specialized treatments," commented one expat living in Cannes.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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