At 63, she changed her life and finally found happiness on an island where her retirement income is enough. ☀️🌴 Read more below. 👇👇
At 63, I decided to start over with a €1,100 monthly pension: on this Mediterranean island, I’m living far better than I ever did in France
For many French retirees, living comfortably on €1,100 a month has become increasingly difficult. Between rising rent, grocery bills, and ever-increasing utility costs, enjoying retirement can feel almost impossible. Yet some have found an unexpected solution: leaving France for a place where their pension allows them to enjoy a much better quality of life.
That’s exactly what Monique, 63, decided to do. After spending years carefully counting every euro, she chose to move to the island of Gozo, part of the Maltese archipelago. The decision completely transformed her daily life.
A Pension That Was No Longer Enough in France
For many years, Monique lived alone in a small town in southwestern France. Her monthly pension of €1,100 barely covered her essential expenses. Once she had paid her rent, electricity, insurance, and groceries, there was very little left for leisure activities or unexpected costs.
Like many retirees, she felt she was merely surviving instead of enjoying what was supposed to be one of the most carefree periods of her life.
Gozo: A Peaceful Island Where Living Costs Less
After several months of research, she discovered Gozo, Malta’s second-largest island. Less famous than the main island, it offers a peaceful lifestyle, a mild climate for most of the year, and, above all, a more affordable cost of living.
In some of the island’s inland villages, it is still possible to rent a comfortable apartment for significantly less than in many French cities. Thanks to these lower housing costs, Monique can now devote a much larger share of her budget to hobbies, outings, and everyday pleasures.
A Better Quality of Life Every Day
Beyond cheaper housing, it was the local lifestyle that helped her save even more money. Farmers’ markets offer fresh produce at attractive prices, while many small shops focus on locally grown products.
Fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, Mediterranean fruits, and regional specialties now make up most of her diet. As a result, she spends less while eating healthier than ever before.
Today, Monique enjoys long walks by the sea, takes part in local community activities, and regularly welcomes friends who come to visit her.
Careful Planning Is Essential Before Moving Abroad
Experts nevertheless advise against making such a life-changing decision too quickly. Before relocating, it is important to spend several weeks in the destination to ensure the lifestyle truly matches your expectations.
It is also essential to carefully review administrative procedures, tax regulations, and healthcare arrangements. Access to medical services, insurance costs, and residency requirements should all be thoroughly examined before making a permanent move.
Monique’s experience shows that having a modest pension does not necessarily mean living with constant financial hardship. With careful planning and the right destination, it is possible to enjoy greater comfort, peace of mind, and a higher quality of life—all while living on the same monthly income.
