Real estate continues to be a hot topic here on the French
Riviera—whether you’re a local, an agent in the business, or just
visiting the region.
Following up on my last post about the so-called "Trump Effect"
and how it's influencing real estate here, more news this week has
highlighted why Americans—especially from the U.S.—are arriving in
growing numbers.
The French Riviera, especially Nice and
its surrounding areas, has become increasingly popular among affluent
American tourists and expatriates. In fact, recent trends show that
nearly one in every two property sales in Nice involves a U.S. buyer.
Since the pandemic, the number of American visitors to the Côte
d’Azur and Monaco has risen dramatically. While they were nearly absent
during the Covid years, they're now returning with enthusiasm, financial
means, and—quite notably—genuine interest in living here, at least
part-time.
Local tourism authorities are embracing this shift.
According to Côte d’Azur France Tourisme, Americans accounted for
620,000 hotel stays in 2024, a 10% increase compared to 2019. That
growth puts them ahead of traditional European travelers from the UK,
Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy, giving local tourism and property
professionals even more reason to focus on this demographic.
It’s
not just the sunshine, sea, and incredible lifestyle drawing them in.
New direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Philadelphia,
and Atlanta into Nice have made the region far more accessible. Nice
Côte d’Azur Airport reported a 40% increase in passenger traffic between
the U.S. and the Riviera in 2024 alone.
Naturally, the
hospitality sector has responded quickly—adding new hotels near the
airport and expanding high-end accommodations in central Nice to meet
the growing demand.
The real estate market has certainly felt the impact. As a North
American myself (from Canada), it's no surprise that most of my
clientele also comes from across the Atlantic. And I'm always excited to
introduce them to the balance of work, life, and leisure that the
Riviera so effortlessly offers.
I wholeheartedly agree with Olivier Roquin of Nice’s Agence Winter, who recently told France 3 Côte d’Azur that he’s seen a major uptick in American buyers, stating, “One in two sales [in the city] is with Americans.”
These
LGBTQ+ buyers are typically over 50, financially comfortable, and have
the luxury of time. They're often drawn to Belle Époque-style properties
in the €400,000 to €800,000 range, especially those within walking
distance to shops, restaurants, and the beach.
Roquin attributes
this trend to a mix of political and lifestyle factors, explaining,
“Politics may be the trigger, but the decision to come to Nice is about
the setting. And they admire President Macron, who represents European
stability.”
From my own experience, many American clients say the same thing:
they’re looking for peace of mind—safety, security, and a healthier pace
of life—even if it’s just for a few months a year.
Monaco, too,
is seeing a gradual rise in American residents. According to the
Monegasque Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (IMSEE), there
were 449 American residents in the Principality in 2023, up from 366 in
2016. While the increase is modest, it’s consistent.
However, some
hurdles remain. U.S. tax obligations and strict banking rules under
FATCA have made it difficult for Americans to open accounts in Monaco.
As a result, many choose to settle in nearby French towns that offer the
best of both worlds: Riviera charm with close access to Monaco’s
services and lifestyle.
If you’re considering a lifestyle
change—whether it’s a relocation, a second home, or just exploring your
options here in the Côte d’Azur—don’t hesitate to reach out to me and my
team at Experience The French Riviera. We’re ready to offer you honest, detailed, and realistic insights to help you make the right decision.
