- Javier Vazquez
Some tips on language classes and translation services for Côte d'Azur expats from the folks on InterNations proved a godsend.
Get together with American expats in Nice
Are you an American living in Nice or planning to move? Join our community to connect with fellow expats and get practical tips on life in the city. Moving abroad comes with challenges, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Meet people who understand your experience, share advice, and make life in Nice even better. Plus, read on to get the inside scoop about what Nice is like for American expats.
Why you'll love InterNations in Nice
and countless possibilities for fun and friendship!
Pros & Cons of living in Nice: American views
No place is absolutely perfect. There’s always the good, the bad and the ugly — read about what our American members love about Nice as well as the challenges they face.
Pros:
Lifestyle and pace: Life in Nice is more relaxed than in most US cities. Long lunches, shorter work hours, and a strong focus on leisure make for an enjoyable work–life balance.
Healthcare: France’s healthcare system is top-notch and more affordable than that in the US.
Walkability and transport: You won’t need a car. Nice is compact, highly walkable, and well-connected with buses, trams, and trains to the rest of the Riviera.
Food and wine: From fresh markets to bakeries and local wines, eating well in Nice is often more affordable than in the US.
Optional tipping culture: No need to calculate 20% at every meal. Service is included in the bill, so tipping is optional and usually just small change.
Cons:
Bureaucracy is slow: In the US, things like opening a bank account or setting up utilities can be done online in minutes. In France, expect paperwork, in-person visits, and long wait times.
Shops close early: Unlike the US, where you can shop late or even 24/7, many stores in Nice close by 7 pm, while all shops are closed on Sundays.
Renting is a headache: In the US, a good credit score and a deposit usually get you an apartment. In France, landlords expect a thick file of paperwork, and the process is much slower.
Air conditioning isn’t common: In the US, AC is standard almost everywhere. In Nice, many homes and even restaurants don’t have it, which makes summers uncomfortable.
English isn’t always enough: In Nice, basic French is needed for visits to the doctor and government offices.
Join weekly events with US expats in Madrid
Adjusting to a new city can be challenging, but at InterNations Nice, you'll find it easier to connect. Our events are a relaxed way for you to meet other expats. You can easily introduce yourself, share your experiences, and get insights about living in Nice.
Check out our upcoming events and join Nice’s expansive expat community. Our Newcomers’ Events are perfect for those new to the city. Our Ambassadors are there to welcome you and help you mingle with both new and long-time expats.
Want to meet other Americans at our events?
Frequently asked questions about life in Nice
The easiest way to meet other Americans is by attending an InterNations Newcomers’ Event. It’s designed for people who are new to the city, so you won’t feel awkward showing up alone. You’ll meet fellow expats, including plenty of Americans, and get tips on making life in Nice easier.
If you prefer a more casual setting, Ma Nolan’s Irish Pub is a solid bet, especially for big American sports events like the Super Bowl. Wayne’s Bar is another popular spot, especially on weekends when it’s packed with English speakers.
For something more community-driven, The Riviera American Club organizes occasional meetups. Local Facebook groups
Americans in Nice tend to live in areas that are lively, well-connected, and easy to navigate. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods:
Carré d’Or: A central, walkable area near the beach, full of shops, cafés, and restaurants.
Mont Boron: A quieter, upscale neighborhood with great sea views. Perfect if you want more space and fewer tourists.
Vieux Nice (Old Town): If you like narrow streets, markets, and nightlife, this is a great choice — just expect some noise.
Fabron: A little further out, but with modern apartments, sea views, and good public transport connections.
The average salary in Nice varies by industry, but to live comfortably as a single person you should aim for at least 2,500–3,500 EUR per month (gross). If you have a family, a higher income is recommended, especially for larger housing. A salary of 4,500–6,000 EUR is generally considered good for a family.
Here’s an overview of the monthly cost of living in Nice:
| Expense | USD | Local currency |
Rent for a studio apartment | 1,100 USD | 1,000–1,500 EUR |
Rent for a small family home | 2,200 USD | 1,800–2,800 EUR |
Utilities (power, water, etc.) | 120 USD | 100–150 EUR |
Public transportation (monthly pass) | 45 USD | 40 EUR |
Basic health insurance (public) | Covered by taxes | Covered by taxes |
Mobile phone & internet | 50 USD | 45–60 EUR |
Groceries (per person) | 350 USD | 250–400 EUR |
Meal at a restaurant (per person) | 20–55 USD | 15–50 EUR |
Keep in mind that Nice is one of the more expensive cities in France, especially in terms of rent. However, compared to major US cities, healthcare and public transport costs are significantly lower.
Nice is a city with many tourists, so you can manage with limited French. However, you might struggle without it for tasks like paperwork, finding a flat, or seeing a doctor.
Overall, 61% of respondents in France in our 2024 Expat Insider survey find it difficult to get by in the country without speaking the local language. Therefore, learning some basic French can help. There are many affordable schools and apps that let you learn at your own pace.
To help English speakers, here are some useful services in Nice (not affiliated with or endorsed by InterNations):
General practitioner (GP) |
Clinic with English-speaking staff. |
Dentist |
Dentist with English-speaking staff, central location. |
Urgent care | Doctorsa 24/7 access to English-speaking doctors, and you can get prescriptions online. |
Immigration assistance | Zlokazov & Company They offer services in English, French, and Russian, making them a great option for expatriates. |
Tax advisor | Sanders US Tax Services A tax advisory with experience in both the US and French tax system. |
Instant interpreting service | DayInterpreting Connect to a French speaker and use your phone’s loudspeaker to have an instant interpreter with you. |
Meet other Americans in Nice
Our Global Partners
Discover hobbies in Nice
Want to engage with your hobbies or explore new interests in Nice? InterNations Groups are perfect for connecting with fellow expats through shared activities. Our groups are managed by active Consuls and offer a variety of monthly events like dining out, local tours, and fun game nights.
Popular groups in Nice include Thinking, Fun and Leisure, Tourism & Speak French, and Social Sharing. Whatever your interest, there’s a group that fits. Join us to make new friends and enjoy your passions!
Find other Americans to share your hobbies with
Enjoy the international experience with InterNations
We’re not just active in Nice — InterNations offers lively communities in most of France’s major cities. If you’re travelling or moving to another city in France, check out our American communities in Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Marseille, or Cannes.
But that’s not all: If you’re in the mood for a night out while travelling further abroad, we have communities in over 420 cities worldwide. Browse all InterNations Communities.
- Javier Vazquez
Some tips on language classes and translation services for Côte d'Azur expats from the folks on InterNations proved a godsend.
- Ida Hagen
Was a bit afraid of the 'posh' expat set at the French Riveria, but I got such a warm welcome in the Côte d'Azur Community! :)
