Cost of living in France

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The cost of living in France sits at the higher end of the scale, particularly in busy city centres like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Your wallet gets a break the further you head into the countryside, thanks to both lower prices and a simpler lifestyle.

Paris tops the expense chart in France, so if you’re heading to the capital, plan your budget with care. France ranks quite highly globally for living costs. Paris is similar to Seattle in expenses, while Lyon or Toulouse line up closer to Toronto or Birmingham price-wise.

Your French salary won’t stretch as far as in some countries – French tech professionals earn up to 60 percent less than their American counterparts. Still, you can live quite comfortably on a modest budget, especially in the sun-drenched south or in quaint village settings that expats often rave about.

Cost of Living in Paris

Cost of accommodation in France

Accommodation in France typically takes the biggest bite from your monthly income as an expat. Expect to spend between a third and a half of your salary if you’re based in a major urban area. The property market has cooled since 2020, with Paris prices dropping by about 8 percent.

Homes in France offer more space for your money compared to many European neighbours, making it worth considering selling your property at home to invest here. Your utility costs in France will likely align with European averages. Air conditioning isn’t a standard fixture in most French homes, unlike in the US.

Renting Accommodation in France

Cost of transport in France

Public transport in France works like clockwork, making car-free living easy if you settle in a major city. Many Paris employers chip in with transport allowances for eligible staff, which are worth asking about during job discussions. As of 2024, free public transport has been rolled out in 45 French cities, slashing commuting costs.

Rural transport networks aren’t as developed as their urban counterparts. Living rural might mean buying a car, somewhat pushing up your countryside living expenses. For electric vehicle drivers, the charging network has grown to over 123,000 public points nationwide (up over 20 percent year-on-year). City dwellers in France are increasingly turning to car-sharing options like OuiCar and ZITY instead of owning vehicles outright.

Public Transport and Driving in France

Cost of groceries and clothing in France

Groceries and clothing in France come with the country’s trademark quality standards. French food regulations rank among Europe’s strictest, with an increasing focus on organic and sustainable options. As a local shopper, you’ll notice a preference for palm oil-free products and seasonal ingredients across markets and shops. Seasonal shopping saves significant money – produce like zucchini can cost seven times more in winter than in summer.

The standard 20 percent value-added tax (VAT) keeps prices higher than those of neighbouring countries, particularly in clothing. While physical retail faces challenges, online fashion shopping thrives, with over half of French online shoppers purchasing clothes via platforms like Zalando, Shein, and Decathlon.

Banking, Money and Taxes in France

Cost of entertainment and eating out in France

Entertainment and dining costs vary dramatically across France. Restaurant prices hit their peak in Paris, where restaurant bills typically costs more than in provincial cities. Coffee prices have jumped 65 percent since 2021 due to global supply challenges, affecting French café bills nationwide.

You’ll find countless free or low-cost options throughout France, from public parks to museums with discounted entry days. Many expats recommend taking advantage of city-sponsored cultural events and free admission days at major attractions.

Cost of education in France

Education in France costs nothing for citizens and residents at public institutions. The system has faced some major recent changes, including new testing methods for primary pupils. For non-French students, special programmes called Sections Internationale help integrate them into mainstream classes.

About 18 percent of students attend private institutions, where fees vary considerably. International education options extend well beyond Paris, with international schools available across all the major French cities. Universities maintain low tuition for EU citizens, although non-EU students face higher rates.

Your children will likely thrive in the French system. Many expat parents report positive integration experiences after the initial language adjustment period.

Education in France
International Schools in France

Cost of healthcare in France

Healthcare in France is one of the world’s best systems. As a resident, you’ll access quality medical services once you’ve lived in the country for three consecutive months with plans to stay at least six months of the year. The state system, Sécurité Sociale, covers most medical expenses without a waiting period from your first day of activity.

Supplementary insurance called a mutuelle fills gaps in state coverage but comes with rising costs. Prices have jumped since 2022. A recent Senate report specifically criticised these soaring rates for hitting over-65s particularly hard.

The private healthcare option provides shorter wait times and greater provider choice. While expats consistently praise French healthcare quality, many report initial language barriers and paperwork challenges. Several expat-focused services now help newcomers handle these administrative hurdles more smoothly.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in France