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Europe › France

Haute-Savoie

Population

849,959

Price per m²

$5,228

Cost of Living

$2,270

Unemployment

6.9%

France Housing Market

Historical national price trends, index 2015 = 100

About Haute-Savoie

Lifestyle and Atmosphere

Haute-Savoie, located in southeastern France, offers a unique blend of alpine lifestyle and modern amenities. Nestled in the French Alps, it's renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, charming villages, and a strong focus on outdoor activities. The atmosphere is generally active and energetic, particularly during peak tourist seasons. While the pace of life is generally slower than in larger cities, the region's proximity to major urban centers provides easy access to a wider range of services and opportunities. The region boasts a significant international community, adding to its multicultural character.

Food Culture

Haute-Savoie's cuisine is deeply rooted in Alpine traditions, featuring hearty dishes that provide sustenance in the often harsh mountain environment. Fondue, raclette, and tartiflette are iconic dishes, showcasing the region's love for cheese and potatoes. Local meats, such as reblochon cheese and cured sausages, also feature prominently. The region's wines, though less famous than those from other French regions, are well-suited to accompany the hearty local cuisine.

Notable Features

The majestic Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest peak, dominates the landscape and is a major draw for mountaineers and tourists. Lake Geneva, a large and beautiful lake, offers opportunities for watersports and relaxation. The region is dotted with picturesque villages and charming towns, each with its unique character and history. The area is known for its excellent skiing and snowboarding resorts, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from around the world. Numerous hiking trails cater to all levels of experience.

Climate

Monthly precipitation and temperature patterns

Precipitation by Month

Sunshine Hours by Month

Annual Precipitation

946 mm

Sunshine Hours

1887 hours annually

Climate Category

Cool Climate

Taxes

Personal Income Tax
53.5%
Corporate Tax
25%
Capital Gains Tax
0%
Dividend Tax
30%
Crypto Tax
0%

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Visa & Citizenship

Citizenship

Short Residency (3-5 years)

Passport Strength

Very Strong

Jus Soli

Yes, with Hard Conditions

Jus Sanguinis

Yes, Parents Only

Outdoor Activities

Hiking, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, and mountain biking are popular activities in Haute-Savoie. The region's numerous lakes offer opportunities for swimming, sailing, and other watersports. The stunning mountain scenery provides breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor experiences. Many resorts offer guided tours and activities for all skill levels.

Cultural Life

Haute-Savoie has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its architecture, traditions, and local festivals. The region's museums and historical sites offer insights into its past. Local events and markets showcase the region's crafts and cuisine. The department's towns and villages often host cultural events throughout the year. The region's international character adds to its cultural diversity.



Major Cities & Towns

1

Annecy

130,721 residents
Population Share 15.4%
2

Annemasse

36,582 residents
Population Share 4.3%
3

Thonon-les-Bains

35,826 residents
Population Share 4.2%
4

Cluses

16,918 residents
Population Share 2.0%
5

Sallanches

16,831 residents
Population Share 2.0%

Demographics

Median Age 40.6 years
Population Density 181.2 people/km²
Foreign-born Population 15.8%

Age Distribution

0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+

Lifestyle Factors

Air Quality

Very High

Healthcare

Very High

Safety

Very Low

Pet Friendliness

Moderate

Tourism Pressure

High

Internet Speed (Download Mbps)

145.9 Mbps

Legal Framework

Same-Sex Marriage Full rights
Child Adoption Allowed
IVF Legal
Abortion 14 weeks
Surrogacy Surrogacy Fully Prohibited
Cannabis Medical Only

Education & Childcare

Education

Education Quality High
ECEC Category Moderate
English Language Skills Moderate

Accessibility

Distance to Coast within 3h
Distance to Ski Resort within 1h
Distance to Major Airport within 1h

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