Everything you’ll need to know to be financially prepared.

Are you relocating to France? One of the first things that you’ll need to get your head around is how far your money will go so that you can make the necessary adjustments in terms of budgeting once you’re out there. From groceries and rent to healthcare and utilities, this guide breaks down what you can expect – and how to budget smartly.

🏠 1. Housing Costs: City vs. Countryside

Housing costs in France vary significantly based on location:

• Paris: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around €1,300–€1,500/month.
• Smaller cities (e.g., Lyon, Toulouse, Nantes): Rent ranges between €600–€900/month.
• Rural areas (e.g., Limousin, Occitanie): You can find rentals for as low as €400/month.

🔗 Check average rent prices by city via Numbeo
🔗 Explore regional property prices from Notaires de France

For an up-to-date review on French property news, curated by us, read here

🛒 2. Groceries & Dining Out

Groceries in France are generally affordable, especially when shopping at local markets:

• Weekly shop for two people: Approximately €80–€100.
• Baguette: Around €1.20.
• Bottle of wine: Typically €5–€7.
• Cheese (500g): About €4–€6.
• Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: Approximately €45–€60.

🔗 France’s official supermarket prices (INSEE)

🚊 3. Transportation & Getting Around

France boasts an extensive and efficient transportation network:

• Monthly metro pass in Paris: €75.
• Monthly pass in smaller cities: Approximately €40.
• Petrol: Around €1.85/litre.
• TGV train tickets: Prices vary; booking in advance can lead to significant savings.

🔗 SNCF train fares and rail passes
🔗 Navigo Pass for Paris transport

🩺 4. Healthcare: High Quality, Low Cost

France’s healthcare system is renowned for its quality and affordability:

• Standard GP visit: €25, with up to 70% reimbursed by the state.
• Private top-up insurance (“mutuelle”): Ranges from €30–€50/month.
• Emergency services and specialists: Widely accessible across the country.

🔗 How French healthcare works (Ameli.fr – English)
🔗 OECD healthcare system rankings

💡 5. Utilities, Internet & Mobile

Utilities and communication services are reasonably priced:

• Electricity, heating, water & waste: Typically €100–€130/month.
• Fibre internet: Around €30/month.
• Mobile phone with data: Approximately €15–€25/month.

🔗 EDF official site for energy rates
🔗 Orange France – Internet & Mobile Plans

🎓 6. Education & Childcare

France offers a robust education system:

• Public schools: Free of charge.
• Private bilingual schools: Tuition ranges from €3,000–€10,000/year.
• Childcare (crèche): Costs between €400–€1,000/month, depending on income and subsidies.

🔗 French education system overview
🔗 Childcare costs explained (CAF.fr)

If you’re keen to keep reading on about all things moving to France from the UK, we have a very detailed guide to help get you started!

Once you understand the cost, explore what living in France is really like as an expat

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us either, if you have any question whatsoever.