Leave the U.S. and Retire Where Life Is Richer
(But Costs Less)
Get weekly tips for retiring in Europe — from visas and taxes to affordable homes in dreamy towns across France and Italy.
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What You'll Get In The Newsletter
Affordable Homes + Hidden Gems:
Get weekly finds on quaint homes under $300K and charming towns you’ve never heard of — but will want to retire to.
Tax Tips for U.S. Retirees:
Understand how your Social Security, 401k, and investments are taxed in France or Italy — and how to avoid costly mistakes.
Visa and Residency Updates:
Stay ahead of changing visa rules so you can retire in Europe legally, easily, and with confidence and clarity.
Healthcare for American Expats:
Learn how to access top-tier, low-cost healthcare in France and Italy — even if you’re not a citizen.
Why France and Italy?
Two countries. One dream life — and smart tax perks to match.
Think: long walks through vineyard-covered hills, $2 cappuccinos on a sunlit piazza, and outdoor markets that feel like scenes from a movie. Whether you crave the rustic romance of Italy or the refined charm of France, both offer the kind of lifestyle most Americans dream about — for a fraction of the cost.
But it’s not just the beauty or the baguettes. Both countries offer incredible tax advantages for U.S. retirees:
- France doesn’t tax your U.S. Social Security or retirement account withdrawals.
- Italy’s 7% flat tax can dramatically reduce your bill if you move to the right regions.
- And both have a lower cost of living than the U.S., especially outside the big cities.
You can upgrade your lifestyle while downgrading your expenses — a rare and powerful combination — and the reason thousands of Americans are making the move.
Who Am I?

Me and my baguette in Reims, France
I'm a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional helping Americans transform their European retirement dreams into reality.
My month living with a French family in Bordeaux while playing soccer sparked a lifelong love affair with Europe. Later explorations only increased my appreciation of the lifestyle and people.
Join me almost 10,000 others on my weekly newsletter.
Tommy Sikes, CFP®
Leave the U.S. and Retire Where Life Is Richer (But Costs Less)
Join me and 9,683 others planning our affordable European retirements.