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13 Nov. 2022

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Cost of living in France: rent, food and transport

Cost of living
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France
Cost of living in France: rent, food and transport

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine
An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine
BUY


France has one of the highest standards of living in the world, and its average cost is higher than in neighboring Western European countries. The most expensive city is Paris. In Mercer's 2021 cost of living report, Paris topped the 33rd place and was more expensive than Amsterdam, Munich and Brussels, but cheaper than London, New York and Zurich. Prices in other regions of the country, especially in the countryside and in the south of France, are much lower than in the capital.


The budget of a family of 2 people who will settle in Paris can reach 2400€ per month or more. If you choose to live in a country other than the capital, you should count on a minimum of €1,800.


Where to stay in Paris: the best neighborhoods and prices.


Housing rent and utilities in France


Of course, as in most countries of the world, the main item of expenditure in France will be housing rent. For a one-room apartment in the center of Paris, you will have to pay about 1,800€ per month. If you need two or three bedrooms, then twice as much. Renting an apartment in Lyon is much cheaper, a one-room apartment in the central part of the city will cost 600–1250€. In Marseille, prices are even lower: the cost of a one-room apartment starts at around €600 per month, and a three-room apartment at €1,125.


Utilities: fees for water, heating, electricity and garbage collection, about 150€ per month, but most often they are immediately included in the rent.


Telecommunications in France


The price for a basic Internet package starts at about €20-€30 per month. The fee for mobile communication is about 30€. If you have a TV, you will need to pay an annual TV license (€138).


Medical Insurance


Everyone who lives in France for more than three months, including foreigners, is entitled to public health insurance - Protection Universelle Maladie (PUMa). The monthly payment is 8% of the salary.


To receive medical care, you must register with a French insurance company and a doctor in France. It is necessary to undergo most medical procedures on the referral of this doctor. About 70% of medical expenses are covered by insurance. However, if you are diagnosed with, for example, cancer, diabetes, or you give birth in France, the French health care system covers 100% of the costs. Those who wish to receive a 100% refund can take out private health insurance to cover the remaining amount.


If you plan to move to France in less than 3 months, we advise you to have travel insurance, because it is a guarantee of your safety and a peaceful stay outside of Ukraine.


About how Ukrainians can use medical services in France at the link.


How much does food cost in France?


When planning food expenses, you should take into account where you want to buy food: in a large chain of supermarkets outside the city or in small local shops. Of course, bulk purchases allow you to save money, but they do not give you the French flavor. On average, you should count on the amount of 500€ per family per month to buy products.


Dinner for two in a middle-class restaurant will cost €60.


The cost of a cup of cappuccino is about €2.80, in Paris you can spend €3.60.


Of course, France is known for its wine. The average cost of a bottle is 10-15€.


Transport costs in France


France has a well-developed public transport system. Residents of big cities don't even need a car. One trip in public transport costs 1.50€ on average, a monthly pass - 80€.


However, those who will live in rural areas should think about buying a car. The cost of 1 liter of fuel is €1.60. The monthly budget for car maintenance is €150 - gasoline, insurance and parking fees.


Additional expenses and entertainment - 200-250€.

 

Rules for registration of protection in France at the link. Those who plan to look for a job in the country will find the article on employment in France useful.

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