How much does it cost live in France in 2024? [Tables with all values]

Have you ever thought about getting lost in the streets of Paris, discovering the secrets of Provence, or enjoying the laid-back lifestyle of the French Riviera? If you've been wanting to live in France but have no idea how much it might cost, get ready—this post is for you!

From personal experience, I know that finances can be a crucial factor when deciding where to settle down. So, the idea here is to show you everything you need to know about the costs of living in France!

Minimum wage in France

Have you heard about the minimum wage in France? Well, here goes: it's currently set at €11.52 per hour, which translates to approximately €1,747.20 per month. Understanding this amount is crucial, as it's what you need to be able to support yourself with, covering expenses such as rent, household bills, food, transportation, and other basic necessities. It's the starting point for anyone looking to establish a solid financial life in this charming country.

How much does rent cost in France?

Nothing is more crucial than having a roof over your head. Rent in France is no exception and can be the largest monthly expense for those who live there.

In cities like Paris, where the cost of living is higher, rent can eat up a significant portion of your budget. While in Saint-Étienne, a more affordable city, you can find the same type of property at a more affordable price.

So, we created a table with an average estimate of the values of each type of property in each of the two cities. Check it out:

Whatever your choice, finding the balance between cost and location is essential to ensuring your financial stability while enjoying life in France.

How much do household bills cost in France?

Just like rent, water, electricity and internet expenses are essential for those living in France.

To help you better understand these costs, we've created a table with an estimated average cost for each type of bill in each of the two cities. Check it out below:

How much does food cost in France?

Before moving to France, you should consider your food expenses, covering the three main meals of the day: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

To help you better understand these costs, below we present an average price range for the main foods found on the French table at each of these meals.

Average price of breakfast in France

Average price of lunch in France

Average price of dinner in France

How much does a meal cost in France?

Above, I talked a little about the price of food products for each of the three main meals of the day. However, sometimes you're not much of a self-preparer and prefer to eat at restaurants, bakeries, and the like. So, check out the average price of the three ready-made meals at the respective establishments below:

How much does public transport cost in France?

As with other topics, public transport prices can vary depending on the city.

In Paris, the beating heart of France, prices reflect the intensity of urban life, with a single metro/bus ticket costing €1.90, while a monthly pass can reach €75.20, providing freedom of movement throughout the city. For young students, there's even a special option: a monthly pass for just €35.20. In Saint-Étienne, a city that exudes tranquility, prices are more affordable, with a single bus/tram ticket costing €1.50 and a monthly pass costing €40.00, offering convenience and savings for its residents.

• Paris:
  • Single metro/bus ticket: €1.90
  • Monthly pass (Navego mensuel – all zones): €75.20
  • Monthly pass for students (up to 26 years old): €35.20
• Saint-Étienne:
  • Single bus/tram ticket: €1.50
  • Monthly pass: €40.00

These values are more than just numbers; they are part of the daily routine of these cities' residents. They represent the accessibility of public transportation, which connects people and places, contributing to the vibrancy of Paris and the welcoming charm of Saint-Étienne.

Other costs in France: Leisure and Entertainment

While food and public transportation are essential to everyday life, we cannot ignore the costs of leisure and entertainment.

In Paris, where the nightlife is vibrant and diverse, prices tend to be higher, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere. On the other hand, in Saint-Étienne, a city with a more laid-back vibe, costs can be more affordable, offering entertainment options for all tastes and budgets.

Check out some values:

After all: What is the cost of living in France? (Individual and Couple)

By considering all the aspects covered, from rent and transportation to leisure and entertainment expenses, we can get a clearer picture of the average cost of living in France for individuals and couples.

For a single person, the cost of living in Paris tends to be higher due to higher prices in various areas, such as housing, food, and entertainment. Taking into account a modest rent, public transportation, basic food, and some leisure activities, an individual can expect to spend on average between €1,500 and €2,000 per month.

In Saint-Étienne, where costs are generally more affordable, the cost of living for a single person can vary between €1,000 and €1,500 per month, considering a standard of living similar to that described above.

For a couple, living costs can be higher, especially in Paris, where rent for a larger space and other shared expenses can significantly increase monthly expenses. On average, a couple in Paris can spend between €2,500 and €3,500 per month, while in Saint-Étienne, the cost of living for a couple can range from €1,800 to €2,500 per month.

It's important to remember that these are average values and actual costs may vary depending on lifestyle, specific location, personal preferences, and other individual variables.

If you're interested, we also made a post talking about the cost of living in Uruguay!