The growing appeal of Nice for Americans: a trend reshaping the real estate market

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Once just a stopover on the way to the French Riviera, "Nissa la Bella" has now become a destination in its own right. With a rise in American tourism and a growing interest in Nice real estate, this trend is gaining momentum in 2025.

Why do Americans love Nice so much? Who are these buyers? And how is our Winter Immobilier agency adapting to this international clientele? Here is our analysis.

Nice: a city full of appeal for American buyers

For American clients seeking lifestyle, culture, and elegance, Nice is an obvious choice. Its attractiveness continues to grow, and not just for tourism.

Long seen as a gateway to Cannes or Monaco, Nice is now preferred by a growing number of Americans as a city worth staying in. In 2024, Americans became the top group of foreign visitors in the city, ahead of the British, Germans, and even Italians.

The increased number of direct flights between Nice and major US cities (New York, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Washington) plays a key role in this dynamic. Air connections have expanded significantly, with a 40% increase in transatlantic traffic in 2024. This is a major advantage for travelers who value comfort, speed, and international access.

Once in Nice, the city’s charm works instantly. Colorful alleys in the Old Town, the beauty of the Promenade des Anglais, private beaches along the Mediterranean, a sunny climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year, delicious local cuisine, greenery everywhere from public gardens to Castle Hill, and museums like Chagall and Matisse all help create a lasting impression. Americans are drawn to the warm, lively, walkable atmosphere which is a true luxury for those used to large, car-oriented cities. The cost of living is also lower than in many parts of the United States.

In addition, the upgrade of the hotel offering enhances the city’s image. Five-star hotels, lifestyle concepts, spas, and fine dining options have emerged across the city to meet the expectations of a demanding international clientele.

The result is clear. Nice has become a reliable destination on the French Riviera, attractive all year round.

Nice: a new paradise for American property buyers

What has stood out in recent years is the shift from tourism to property ownership among American visitors. Impressed by the local lifestyle, many are now choosing to invest in a pied-à-terre, a rental property, or a new beginning in Nice.

A well-informed and decisive buyer profile

American buyers in Nice share many similarities. Most are over 50, have strong purchasing power, and tend to buy without financing. Their plans are usually well thought out and they know exactly what they are looking for. Budgets often range from €400,000 to €800,000, and decisions are made very quickly.

Their top priorities include proximity to the city center, sea or open views, and above all, historic charm. Bourgeois buildings, Belle Époque or Art Deco styles, high ceilings, and original hardwood floors all embody the French dream.

A rare balance between prestige and affordability

Nice’s real estate strength lies in the balance between lifestyle and affordability. While a suburban home in California or Miami may cost close to one million euros, Nice offers comparable or even more elegant living for a controlled budget.

Living in a prestigious apartment with sea views in a Belle Époque building is highly attractive to Americans who are often tired of impersonal new constructions.

The excellent price-to-quality ratio and the beauty of the setting make Nice a top choice for American buyers.

Winter Immobilier’s tailored service for American clients

At Winter Immobilier, we have seen a sharp increase in American clients since 2023. In fact, nearly half of our current transactions involve American buyers.

To meet the needs of this international and discerning clientele, we have developed specialized expertise to provide support at every stage of the process.

A bilingual, responsive, and attentive team

At Winter Immobilier, fluency in English is just the starting point. We offer personalized support based on active listening, responsiveness, and transparency. These are qualities that American buyers particularly value, as they are used to highly professional and structured real estate services.

From the very first contact, our team ensures a smooth and reassuring experience, taking into account time differences, limited time on site, and the need to make fast, remote decisions when necessary.

We also work with exclusive mandates, a familiar concept for American clients. This helps build trust, clarity, and a focused sales strategy.

Premium services for a high-end clientele

Many American buyers arrive with a higher-than-average budget and clearly defined expectations: sea view, character, proximity to shops, and the ability to do everything on foot. Winter Immobilier carefully selects properties that match these criteria while meeting the design and quality standards American clients are used to.

We also handle all the complex aspects of buying property in France: organizing viewings, connecting with notaries, providing legal and tax support, and assisting with administrative formalities. We also offer post-purchase support, including concierge services, rental management, and renovation coordination.

This turnkey approach is particularly valuable for time-sensitive clients who expect efficient, high-quality service. American buyers want expert guidance and a trusted advisor who can take care of everything.

Are you American and dreaming of living in or buying property in Nice? Are you looking for a charming home near the sea with reliable support? Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of navigating a foreign market, in another language and legal system?

Winter Immobilier is here to help. Based in Nice for over 65 years, our agency offers fully personalized service in English, with a dedicated, responsive team who truly listens to your needs. We are here to help you find the perfect home and make your dream of living in Nice a reality.