Living in Rural France for a Month: My Experience

Timing is Everything

When I first toyed with the idea of spending a month in the French countryside, I quickly learned that timing could make or break the budget. July and August? Forget it. Those months are prime vacation time in France—locals flock south in droves, turning quaint little towns into bustling hubs, and prices skyrocket accordingly.

So, I decided to beat the crowds and booked my stay for late September. The weather? Still absolutely lovely, with warm days and crisp evenings. And the prices? Much more manageable. This is the sweet spot—just after the high season but before the chill of fall sets in. Plus, there’s something special about experiencing the slower pace of French village life without the throngs of summer tourists.

Finding the Perfect Place

Let’s talk accommodations. I knew I wanted something cozy and authentic—a place where I could imagine myself living like a local, even if just for a month. After some serious Airbnb browsing, I zeroed in on Cucuron, a ridiculously charming village in the Lubéron region. Picture pastel-colored houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and the kind of peaceful ambiance that makes you want to slow down and soak it all in.

I found a small house that ticked all the boxes—rustic charm, a cute little kitchen, and plenty of character. It wasn’t the cheapest option at around 1350€ for the month, but it had that certain “je ne sais quoi” that made it feel worth every euro. Plus, waking up each morning to the view of rolling vineyards? Priceless.

Getting Around: To Rent a Car or Not?

Now, let’s talk logistics. I quickly realized that while living without a car in these tiny villages is technically possible, it’s not something I’d recommend unless you’re okay with being pretty much stuck in one spot. Sure, there are buses, but they run on what I like to call “village time”—infrequent and unpredictable.

So, I bit the bullet and rented a car. It set me back about 750€ for the month, plus another 300€ for gas, but it was totally worth it. With my trusty little car, I could explore all the hidden gems of the region, from lavender fields to medieval castles, at my own pace. And let’s be real—nothing beats the freedom of taking a spontaneous detour down a country road just because it looks pretty.

Food and Daily Expenses

If there’s one thing I was determined to do during my stay, it was to eat well. I budgeted around 500€ for food and daily expenses, which turned out to be more than enough to enjoy all the local delicacies. Mornings usually started with a visit to the local market, where I’d pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, and maybe a baguette or two. Lunch was often a simple affair—some cheese, fresh bread, and a glass of wine.

Dining out was a treat I indulged in once or twice a week. The village had a couple of charming little restaurants where I could savor traditional Provençal dishes without breaking the bank. And let’s not forget the pastries—because what’s a stay in France without indulging in a few (or more) croissants?

The Final Tally

After a month of living my French countryside dream, I tallied up my expenses. In total, I spent around 2,900€. Yes, it’s more than what a local would spend, but for me, it was money well spent. The experience was a perfect blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and, of course, delicious food.

Living in rural France for a month wasn’t just about ticking off a bucket list item—it was about slowing down, savoring the simple pleasures, and fully immersing myself in a way of life that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city living. If you’re dreaming of a similar escape, I say go for it. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, the French countryside offers an experience that’s both enriching and unforgettable.