What Is the Cost of Living in Paris?
Paris is undoubtedly a spectacular city. Living in Paris is exciting and romantic at the same time. Just like any other capital city, the cost of living in Paris is undeniably high. However, this city offers a lot more than what you pay.
In this article, we will talk about the monthly expenses of living in Paris.
What Is the Average Cost of Living in Paris?
The monthly expenses in Paris for a bachelor or student will be around € 3,500, and that for a family of four is € 5,500. When compared to other countries, the cost of studies in France is considerably lower than that in the United Kingdom and the United States.
What Are the Top Expenses While Living in Paris?
The cost of living in Paris depends on so many factors. In this section, we will talk about the various parameters that impact the monthly expense for an individual living in Paris –
1. Housing
The money you spend on buying or renting a property in Paris will be your largest expense. That being said, the cost of a decent housing space will vary depending on the area you choose to live in. For example, accommodation in the outskirts of Paris is much more affordable than those in the heart of the city.
| Classification of Accommodation | Approximate Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom Apartment | € 1,35,000 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartment (Furnished) | € 2,90,000 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartment (Unfurnished) | € 2,45,000 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment | € 3,40,000 |
2. Transportation
Paris has an efficient public transportation facility that connects every corner of the city. Furthermore, the cost for these modes of transportation is quite affordable. Individuals, who plan to use the metro or bus on a regular basis, should consider opting for an unlimited monthly pass.
| Fuel Cost/Transportation Service | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| One-way ticket (public transport) | € 2 |
| Monthly pass (public transport) | € 75 |
| Taxi 1 km normal tariff | € 1.6 |
| Price of diesel | € 2.12 |
| Price of gasoline | € 2.06 |
| Cabs (minimum cost) | € 7.1 |
3. Groceries
The prices for groceries vary depending on an individual’s diet, preference and where they go shopping. The city has a number of local markets from where you can find fresh products and that too at affordable prices.
| Grocery | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Milk (regular) (1 litre) | € 1 |
| Fresh Bread (500g) | € 2 |
| Rice (white) (1kg) | € 2 |
| Eggs (regular) (1 dozen) | € 4 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | € 18 |
| Chicken 1 kg (boneless) | € 13 |
| Apples (1kg) | € 3 |
| Banana (1kg) | € 2 |
| Oranges (1kg) | € 3 |
| Tomato (1kg) | € 3 |
| Potato (1kg) | € 2 |
| Onion (1kg) | € 2 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | € 2 |
4. Utilities
The monthly cost of the basic utilities like electricity, gas supply, internet and mobile prepaid plans also impact the cost of living in Paris. The table below shows the approximate cost of some basic utilities –
| Utilities | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity, cooling, heating, water, garbage | € 178 |
| Local prepaid mobile tariff (1 min) | € 0.16 |
| Unlimited internet package | € 30 |
5. Entertainment and Leisure
It is a known fact that going to restaurants, events, and bars is a costly affair, especially in big cities. Furthermore, you have to pay more for gourmet food and speciality drinks. However, one can indeed find a nightlife that suits their expectations and budget.
| Area of Expense | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| 1 month gym membership | € 37 |
| 1 hour rent for a tennis court | € 16 |
| 1 seat at a cinema hall | € 12 |
| Meal in an affordable restaurant (1 person) | € 15 |
| Three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant | € 60 |
| McMeal at McDonald's | € 9 |
6. Childcare and Schooling
Finding a good school or kindergarten is very important for the future of your kids. Paris has a number of reputed schools and universities that impart the training and education a child needs.
| School and Childcare | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Preschool, private, full-day for 1 child (monthly) | $ 720 |
| International primary school for 1 child (yearly) | $ 15,000 |
The table illustrated below shows some of the best international schools in Paris –
| Name of School | Curriculum |
|---|---|
| International School of Paris | International Baccalaureate |
| Marymount International School Paris | Catholic, International Baccalaureate |
| ICS Paris International School | International Baccalaureate, British |
| Forest International School Paris | International Baccalaureate, British |
| Kingsworth International School | British |
| Malherbe International School | British, French, Montessori |
| Rainbow School Paris | French, Montessori |
| Open Sky International | British, French |
| EIB de La Jonchère | British, French |
| École Galilée | International Baccalaureate, French |
How Expensive Is Paris Compared to Other Top Cities?
The monthly cost of living in Paris is costlier than that of 86% of the cities in Western Europe. Furthermore, the average cost of living in Paris is more expensive than that of 89% of the cities worldwide.
This city was also ranked costlier than Amsterdam, Brussels and Munich in Mercer's 2021 Cost of Living report. However, this report further stated that Paris is cheaper than top cities like Zurich, London and New York.
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. After moving to Paris, you will feel like taking long walks only to see the spectacular Haussmanian architecture. Living as an expat in a new city is quite thrilling. However, before moving, make sure you learn about the approximate cost of living in Paris every month. This will help you save more money during your stay in Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it costly to live in Paris?
Living in Paris is highly expensive. Moreover, this city is one of the most expensive cities in the whole world.
What is the base fare of a taxi in Paris?
The minimum fare for a taxi in Paris is € 7.1.