What It’s Really Like to Live in Paris as an American

I’m an American woman living in Paris and I want to give you the lowdown on what it’s really like. I’ve lived in France for over a year now, and in Paris for about 9 months at the time I’m writing this. It’s not all macarons and museums, but it is magnificent – flaws and all. Keep reading for 7 truths about what you can expect from living in the City of Lights as an American expat.

1. More French People Like Americans Than You Might Think

Contrary to popular belief, many French people are genuinely excited to meet Americans. I’ve often been met with enthusiasm when I tell locals where I’m from. They tell me how they loved visiting California, or how they always dreamed of visiting NYC…plenty of French folks find the US captivating. The stereotype that Parisians dislike Americans is somewhat a myth—what they do dislike (and same here) is poor behavior from obnoxious tourists, which we have to admit is 100% justified. The truth is, Parisians, like anyone else, appreciate kindness and respect.

I’ve found that Parisians are actually quite welcoming, but it helps if you show a little respect for their culture. A big part of this is trying to speak French, even if it’s just a few words. Simply barging into a café or shop and speaking English without any attempt at French can come off as entitled. Trust me, a little effort goes a long way, and you might be surprised at how warm and friendly Parisians can be when you show that you’re making a little effort to blend in.

2. Learning French Really Is Essential to Fit In

To my previous point, learning French is crucial for anyone who truly wants to integrate into Parisian life. While I’m not fluent yet, my efforts to learn the language have paid off in more ways than I expected. There are plenty of American expats who stick to English-speaking circles, but they often miss out on the full Parisian experience.

By learning French, I’ve been able to form genuine friendships with locals and navigate the city with more confidence. Even service professionals in stores and restaurants are more likely to warm up to you if you make an effort to speak their language. Remember, you’re in France—embracing the language is part of embracing the culture. Just because most people can speak some English, doesn’t mean it’s easy. It can be exhausting to switch between languages (something I’ve finally come to appreciate and understand myself).

3. Finding a Permanent Job Can Be Tough

Job hunting in Paris is no easy feat, especially for non-natives. Despite being qualified, it can be challenging to secure a permanent position, and this isn’t just an issue for Americans. The language barrier is a significant hurdle, so having a professional level of French is essential unless you’re aiming for a role in an international company. And let’s be real—most of those opportunities are concentrated in Paris, which is good news if that’s where you want to be, but it does add to the competition.

4. Finding an Apartment Is Almost Harder Than Finding a Job

If you thought job hunting was hard, wait until you start looking for an apartment. The Parisian real estate market is notoriously competitive, and you might find yourself grappling with lifestyle adjustments that the American mind cannot comprehend. For example, shared toilets in the hallway are not uncommon in budget apartments. Even for places that cost around 800 euros a month, the amenities might not match what you’d expect back in the States.

And don’t even think about expecting to find A/C…

5. You Will Definitely Be Told You’re Being Too Loud, At Least Once

One thing I quickly learned is that Americans tend to speak louder than Parisians, and this can draw some polite requests to keep it down. I’ve had my volume checked on two occasions in the first 6 months of living here—once by an elderly woman at a café and another time at a restaurant when I was catching up with an old friend, so naturally our energy was escalated. It happens! Even beyond speaking volume, thinks like music tend to be quieter in French restaurants than in US restaurants.

It’s a cultural difference that’s hard to ignore, and over time, I’ve noticed my speaking volume has naturally adjusted. After over a year here, I now find myself also thinking Americans speak very loudly when I cross paths with a group of out-of-towners.

6. You Will Never Leave Your House Underdressed

Paris is a city where style matters, and that’s something I’ve come to really appreciate. Back in the US, leggings might have been my go-to for running errands, but in Paris, I’ve upped my standards. What used to be my “dinner-out-with-friends” wardrobe in the States is now my baseline for a lazy weekend in Paris. This shift in mindset has been a positive change—I’ve come to enjoy the feeling put-together, even if I’m just going to the grocery store (besides, you never know when you’ll run into a cute French guy to solve all your visa troubles once and for all…).

7. You Get Comfortable in Discomfort and Inconvenience

Living in Paris means adjusting to a different pace of life, one that might seem inconvenient by American standards. From the city shutting down in August to limited operating hours on Sundays and holidays you’ve never even heard of, the French lifestyle prioritizes balance over convenience. While it can be frustrating at times, I’ve learned to appreciate this aspect of Parisian life. It’s a reminder that life isn’t all about efficiency—sometimes, it’s about taking the time slow down and live well.

Living in Paris is Always Worth It

Living in Paris as an American is an adventure full of contrasts. It challenges you to adapt, to embrace a new culture, and to see the world from a different perspective. While there are hurdles to overcome, from language barriers to finding an apartment, the rewards are well worth it. Paris has a way of transforming you, and if you’re open to it, you’ll find that the city has even more to offer than just its famous landmarks and cuisine.

Before Paris, I was living in Milan, Italy and then Cognac, France. If you want to discover more about this cities as well, check out the curated city guides here.