Cost of living in Paris

The cost of living in Paris can reach dizzying heights, but the quality of life in this enchanting city more than makes up for it. That said, be prepared to manage your money well, as salaries in Paris may be comparatively less than what you’re used to.

Over the years, the financial packages given to expats in Paris have become less rewarding than those given to expats who move to the Middle East or Asia for tax-free wealth or high-powered positions. Still, living the Parisian dream on a budget is feasible, especially if you make your home in the city’s more affordable outskirts.

Cost of accommodation in Paris

The cost of accommodation in Paris can devour a significant portion of your income. In fact, it can easily swallow a third to a half of your monthly salary, depending on where in the city you reside. That said, housing on the city’s outskirts is naturally much more affordable than those in affluent and in-demand city-centre neighbourhoods. Affordable gems await discovery in the suburbs, nestled away from the city centre’s opulence.

Utility bills are comparable to those in capitals in the rest of Europe, offering no surprises.

Accommodation in Paris
Best Places to Live in Paris

Cost of groceries and clothing in Paris

Parisian food is of the highest quality, thanks to France’s strict food regulations and the French people’s pride in their cuisine. Savouring exquisite Parisian fare comes at a price, but it’s worth it for the abounding culinary delights. Shopping at local markets, bakeries, and cheesemongers guarantees top-quality produce.

A 20 percent sales tax in France makes purchasing general goods slightly pricier than in many other European countries. With Paris as a global fashion epicentre, Paris is home to notoriously expensive clothing shops. You may need to choose between pricey luxury boutiques with high-quality clothing and economical, lower-quality options.

To save money on groceries, many budget-conscious expats recommend shopping at chains like Carrefour, Lidl, and Monoprix or venturing to Asian supermarkets like Tang Frères for bulk essentials at lower prices. Buying seasonal produce can also significantly reduce your food expenses while ensuring the best quality.

Cost of transport in Paris

Paris boasts an impressive public transport system, and you will encounter an effortlessly mobile life without a car. If you dare to drive, you may discover that it isn’t a very pleasant experience, with mazes of traffic and high parking fees.

Current transport options include the Metro-Train-RER Ticket, Bus-Tram Ticket, and the Paris Visite Pass. The Navigo card offers excellent value, providing unlimited travel across all zones. Most remarkably, employers are legally required to cover up to 75 percent of your public transport costs, significantly easing this expense.

Getting Around in Paris 

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Paris

Paris leads the country in terms of the cost of eating out, and France, the birthplace of the modern restaurant, is known for the price and quality of its dining experience. Dining out in Paris can be a pricey affair, and you will probably have to budget carefully and prioritise which aspects of the Parisian lifestyle you want to experience.

If you’re on a tighter budget, numerous budget-friendly entertainment options await. There are many things to see and do for free, like visiting one of Paris’s many public parks and historical sites, and museums and galleries are generally affordable. You will have no problem soaking in the city’s rich culture on a budget, especially if you keep abreast of the many events in this cultural capital.

For culture enthusiasts, many museums offer free, permanent collections, with a small fee for their special exhibits. Free cultural events like Nuit Blanche (White Night) and various summer festivals from June to August provide entertainment without emptying your wallet. Budget-friendly dining options include Bouillon restaurants, which serve traditional French cuisine at affordable prices.

Lifestyle in Paris
Things to See and Do in Paris
Annual Events in Paris

Cost of education in Paris

For citizens and residents, public education in France is free, and some public schools, known as Sections Internationale, are specifically designed to help non-Francophones integrate.

You might consider enrolling your kids in a private school for a greater fee, although you should be aware of the distinction between privately funded and state-sponsored private schools; the latter have a better reputation.

Paris is home to most of the international schools in France. These schools are very pricey but are often favoured by expat parents because they allow their children to continue with a familiar curriculum in their home language. Aside from tuition fees, be prepared for additional costs for registration, lunches, and extracurricular activities.

Education in Paris
Best International Schools in Paris

Cost of healthcare in Paris

In France’s capital, you will find a world-class healthcare system that balances quality and affordability. Paris boasts a solid public healthcare network called Assurance Maladie, with an array of private clinics and hospitals catering to a more exclusive clientele.

The public system, funded through social security contributions, offers universal coverage for all French residents. However, it only covers some medical expenses, leaving you responsible for the remainder. Many expats purchase complementary health insurance, a mutuelle, to bridge the gap and ensure peace of mind.

La vie en rose is not without its peculiarities, though. Parisians take their healthcare seriously, and the capital’s dense population can lead to long waiting times at some hospitals or clinics. While there are English-speaking doctors, they may be difficult to find. You may find that investing in private healthcare alleviates these inconveniences, providing swift access to premium care, often in luxurious settings.

The public healthcare system typically covers 70 percent of medical costs, which can rise to 100 percent for certain long-term conditions like cancer or diabetes. To register, you’ll need to submit various documents, including your passport, visa details, proof of residence, and birth certificate.

Healthcare and Hospitals in Paris

Cost of living in France chart

These are the average costs for Paris in April 2025. Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider.