Is Marseille a good place to live?
Marseille offers a mix of advantages and challenges for residents:
Pros:
- Mediterranean climate with 300 sunny days per year
- Rich cultural scene and historical architecture
- Excellent public transportation system
- Lower cost of living compared to Paris
- Beautiful coastal location with access to beaches and calanques
Cons:
- Higher crime rate compared to other French cities
- Slower pace of life, which may not suit everyone
- Language barrier for non-French speakers
- Some areas can be crowded and touristy
Overall, Marseille can be a good place to live for those seeking a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle with a lower cost of living than other major French cities.
Can I move to Marseille?
Yes, you can move to Marseille, but the process depends on your citizenship:
- EU citizens: Can move freely without a visa
- Non-EU citizens: Need to apply for a long-stay visa or residency permit
Key steps for moving:
- Secure accommodation (average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: €800-€900)
- Obtain necessary visas or permits
- Register with local authorities upon arrival
- Set up essential services (banking, healthcare, etc.)
Is it expensive to live in Marseille?
Marseille is relatively affordable compared to other major French cities:
- Average monthly cost for a single person: €1,185 (without rent)
- Average monthly cost for a family of four: €3,989 (including rent)
Key expenses:
- Rent: €550-€760 for a single person, €900-€1,350 for a family
- Food: €250-€350 for a single person, €400-€600 for a family
- Transportation: €45-€50 for a single person, €80-€100 for a family
- Utilities: €55-€150 per month
Marseille is approximately 33% cheaper than Amsterdam and significantly more affordable than Paris. A salary of €2,387 after tax is considered average.
Is Marseille LGBT friendly?
France generally has progressive laws protecting LGBT rights. Marseille, as a large, diverse city, is likely to be relatively LGBT-friendly. However, attitudes can vary in different neighborhoods and social circles.
Key points:
- France legally recognizes same-sex marriages and partnerships
- Large cities tend to be more open and accepting of the LGBT community
- Marseille hosts annual LGBT events and has a visible LGBT scene
Can you move to France without a job?
Yes, you can move to France without a job, but there are specific requirements and options to consider:
- Long Stay Tourist Visa: This visa allows you to stay in France for up to one year without working for a French company. You’ll need to prove sufficient funds to support yourself.
- Student Visa: Enroll in a French university program to stay and work part-time (up to 964 hours per year).
- Self-employed or Liberal Activity Visa: Start your own business or work as a freelancer in France.
- Retirement: If you have a retirement fund or savings, you can apply for a long-stay visa as a retiree.
- Digital Nomad: Work remotely for a non-French company while living in France.
Key requirements:
- Valid passport
- Proof of financial resources (bank statements, employment letter, or business license)
- Health insurance
- Accommodation proof
