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Expat Exchange - Cost of Living in Biarritz 2024
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Cost of Living in Biarritz

By Joshua Wood, LPC

French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

Summary: Understanding the the cost of living in Biarritz helps a newcomer what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Cost of Living Biarritz
Apartment Rentals The average cost of renting an apartment in Biarritz is €1,000 to €1,500 per month. This cost can vary depending on the size and location of the apartment.
Apartment Purchases The average cost of purchasing an apartment in Biarritz is €200,000 to €400,000. This cost can vary depending on the size and location of the apartment.
Transportation The cost of public transportation in Biarritz is €1.50 per ride. Monthly passes are available for €30. Taxis are also available and the cost is €2.50 per kilometer.
Groceries The cost of groceries in Biarritz is relatively low. A loaf of bread costs €1.50, a liter of milk costs €1.00, and a dozen eggs costs €2.00.
Restaurants The cost of eating out in Biarritz varies depending on the type of restaurant. A meal at a fast food restaurant costs €7.00, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs €20.00.
Utilities The cost of utilities in Biarritz is relatively low. The average cost of electricity is €50 per month, while the average cost of water is €20 per month.
Private School Tuition The cost of private school tuition in Biarritz varies depending on the school and grade level. Preschool tuition is €1,000 per year, elementary school tuition is €2,000 per year, middle school tuition is €3,000 per year, and high school tuition is €4,000 per year.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Biarritz

"The cost of living in Biarritz, is considered relatively high compared to other French cities. This is largely due to its popularity as a tourist destination and its location on the French Basque coast. Housing tends to be the most significant expense, with rental prices being quite high, especially for properties with sea views or those located near the city center. The cost of groceries and dining out in Biarritz is also slightly higher than the national average. This is particularly true for restaurants and cafes located near the beach or in the city center, which often cater to tourists. Transportation costs in Biarritz are relatively moderate. The city is quite walkable, and many residents choose to get around by bike. However, owning a car can be expensive, with costs including fuel, parking, and maintenance. Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, are an additional monthly cost. These costs can vary depending on the size of the property and the time of year. Healthcare in Biarritz, as in the rest of France, is of a high standard and is generally affordable, especially for those who are covered by the French social security system. Overall, while the cost of living in Biarritz is higher than in many other French cities, many residents feel that the city's high quality of life, beautiful surroundings, and vibrant culture make the extra expense worthwhile," said one expat living in Biarritz.

Can I live in Biarritz on $1,500 a month?

"I've been living in Biarritz for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live on $1,500 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. First, you'll need to find a more affordable neighborhood to live in. The city center and areas near the beach, like Les Halles and La Côte des Basques, are quite expensive. I'd recommend looking for an apartment in neighborhoods like La Negresse or La Milady, which are a bit further from the city center but still have good access to public transportation and amenities.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive, so I'd suggest relying on public transportation or even getting a bike. The bus system in Biarritz is quite good, and a monthly pass costs around €30. If you're working in the city center, you can also consider walking or biking to work to save on transportation costs.Eating out can be pricey in Biarritz, especially in the more touristy areas. To save money, I'd recommend cooking at home and shopping at local markets or discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi. If you do want to eat out occasionally, there are some more affordable options like kebab shops or small local bistros.For entertainment, you'll need to be selective about the activities you choose. Going to the movies or attending concerts can be expensive, so I'd suggest looking for free or low-cost events like outdoor movie screenings or local festivals. There are also plenty of beautiful beaches and parks in Biarritz where you can spend your free time without spending a lot of money.In summary, living comfortably on $1,500 a month in Biarritz is possible, but you'll need to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, relying on public transportation, cooking at home, and being selective about your entertainment options, you can make it work," commented an expat living in Biarritz.

Can I live in Biarritz on $3,500 a month?

"I've been living in Biarritz for a while now, and I can tell you that it's possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. The cost of living in Biarritz is relatively high compared to other cities in France, mainly because it's a popular tourist destination and has a high demand for housing.First, you'll need to find an affordable place to live. I'd recommend looking for an apartment in the neighborhoods of La Negresse, La Milady, or even Bidart, which is a small village just south of Biarritz. These areas are more affordable than the city center or the beachfront neighborhoods like Les Halles or Le Phare. You can expect to pay around $1,000 to $1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in these areas.Next, you'll need to be mindful of your spending on food and entertainment. Eating out can be quite expensive in Biarritz, especially in the touristy areas. I'd recommend cooking at home as much as possible and shopping at local markets like Les Halles or the Biarritz Market for fresh produce and seafood. When you do eat out, try to find more affordable options like the local boulangeries, cafes, and bistros.As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Biarritz. You can spend your days at the beach, go for hikes in the nearby Pyrenees mountains, or explore the beautiful Basque countryside. There are also many cultural events and festivals throughout the year that are either free or have a low entry fee.One sacrifice you might have to make is limiting your travel within Europe. While there are budget airlines and trains available, frequent trips can quickly eat into your monthly budget. I'd recommend planning your trips carefully and taking advantage of any deals or discounts you can find.In conclusion, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in Biarritz is possible, but you'll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing an affordable neighborhood, cooking at home, and enjoying the many free or low-cost activities available, you can make it work," said one expat living in Biarritz.

Can I live in Biarritz on $5,000 a month?

"I've been living in Biarritz for a while now, and I can tell you that it's definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you're used to modern amenities. However, there might be some sacrifices you'll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you'll want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like the city center or the area around the Grande Plage. These areas are beautiful, but the cost of living is significantly higher. Instead, consider looking for a place to live in more affordable neighborhoods like La Negresse, Saint-Charles, or even just outside of Biarritz in nearby towns like Anglet or Bayonne. These areas still offer easy access to the city and its amenities, but at a more reasonable price.When it comes to dining out, you might have to cut back a bit on the number of times you eat at high-end restaurants. Biarritz has a great food scene, but it can be pricey. Instead, try exploring some of the more affordable local eateries and markets, where you can still enjoy delicious French cuisine without breaking the bank.Transportation is another area where you can save some money. While Biarritz does have a public transportation system, it's not as extensive as in larger cities. However, the city is quite walkable, and you can also consider getting a bike to get around. This will not only save you money on transportation costs but also give you a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery and stay active.Finally, you might have to be more mindful of your entertainment and leisure expenses. While there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Biarritz, such as visiting the beach, hiking, or attending local festivals, you might have to limit the number of paid attractions or events you attend.Overall, living in Biarritz on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but it will require some adjustments and smart budgeting. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, cutting back on dining out, and being mindful of your transportation and entertainment expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this beautiful French city," commented an expat living in Biarritz.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

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SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
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