A New Life in France: Lin Koh’s Family Journey

In 2023, Lin Koh, her husband, and their two young children moved from Santa Clara, California, to France, embarking on a journey that would reshape their lives in unexpected ways. Their decision was primarily driven by a desire to care for Lin’s mother-in-law, who lives in France and is battling Alzheimer’s disease.

"We were observing her decline, and we made the call," Koh shared. But while the altruistic motivations were strong, the high cost of living in the Bay Area also influenced their choice. By relocating, they hoped to lower their expenses and create a more balanced life for their family.

Embracing a Slower Pace of Life

The Koh family traded the fast-paced environment of Silicon Valley for the serene setting of Fuveau, a small town near Aix-en-Provence. Living with Koh’s in-laws has certainly changed their dynamics, especially since both parents previously worked in the tech industry. They now share caregiving responsibilities for Koh’s mother-in-law while adjusting to their new environment.

Their children have seamlessly adapted to their new French-speaking school, picking up the language surprisingly fast. Koh noted that adjusting to life in a multigenerational household has brought its own challenges, particularly in terms of privacy, but ultimately, she feels it has fostered a closer family bond.

"It’s also brought a lot of opportunities to grow in a different direction," Koh emphasized, highlighting the personal growth she and her family have experienced.

The Cost of Living: A Notable Change

One of the most significant advantages the Khos noticed was the affordability of life in France. When they first moved, they rented a spacious five-bedroom house with a pool for about $2,532 per month, a fraction of what they would have paid in California.

Their current home, a 2,800-square-foot residence with five bedrooms and three bathrooms, would have cost them double in the Bay Area, illustrating a substantial financial relief. In addition to housing, Koh mentioned that their everyday expenses have decreased significantly. Their monthly grocery bills are around 30% lower, and costs related to the kids, such as summer camp, are about 50% cheaper. Although gas and electricity costs remain comparable, the overall reduction in property taxes further enhances their financial comfort.

Family Time Reimagined

Living together in a single household has undeniably redefined family dynamics. With the emphasis on cooking rather than fast food options, Koh finds herself preparing meals for more people, which has turned into a family activity. As they care for their mother-in-law, everyone pitches in, including the children.

"The hardest part of this move has been seeing a loved one who was so capable change over time," Koh reflected. It weighed heavily on her, knowing that her kids wouldn’t understand the version of their grandmother that once was. However, she finds solace in moments like her son recognizing when his grandmother needs a drink and fetching it for her.

"It’s teaching my kids how to be nurturing, and it really emphasizes the importance of family," she remarked, encapsulating the emotional rewards that come with living closely together.

Work-Life Balance: A Shift in Perspective

The transition from California’s work-centric culture to a lifestyle that emphasizes balance has been another significant change for the Khos. In California, Koh worked in marketing, while her husband was an engineer. Now, as they step away from their fast-paced tech careers, they find new freedom and fulfillment.

Koh is now a brand manager and her husband has launched an app called Argoli, which supports older adults. Yet, the biggest change lies in their work-life balance. Koh relishes her 37 vacation days a year—far surpassing standard U.S. offerings.

"People here really focus on life outside work," she observed. "They don’t live to work. They work to live, and I find that refreshing." This newfound perspective has allowed the family to reestablish priorities outside the confines of career obligations, making room for cherished family experiences.

The Language Barrier

While there are numerous advantages to living in France, the language barrier remains a challenge for Koh. Still learning French, she often relies on her husband, a native speaker, to assist with daily tasks.

"Since being in France, my husband has really stepped up," she noted. This development has naturally created a sense of dependency, but it hasn’t fundamentally altered their marriage dynamics.

On the other hand, her children are thriving. Initially enrolled in a private international school, they have since switched to a public school, where they quickly became fluent in French—often communicating with each other in their new language.

"Kids are sponges," Koh remarked, expressing her delight at their adaptability. While she does take steps to ensure they retain their English skills, she recognizes that their bilingual upbringing is one of the most significant benefits of their move to France.

In this multifaceted journey, the Koh family’s experience illustrates the joys and trials of adapting to a new culture, all while prioritizing family and well-being amid the complexities of life.