Cost of Living in France

"Comfort depends on your definition. If you expect to have servants, forget it. My income as a retiree is less than $35k and my lifestyle is simple. I travel as a retiree getting discounts where they are available. Often times travel agents will my age and then give me the discount without questions," said one expat in Pezenas.

"The cost of living in France can vary greatly depending on which part of the country you are looking at, as well as where you choose to live. In general, the cost of basic foodstuffs, gasoline, and public transport is relatively affordable, and housing costs can vary depending on the area and availability. Non-food related expenses such as entertainment and personal care may cost more than in other countries. In comparison to other parts of Europe, France is generally more expensive," remarked one in France.

"That all depends on the size of the accommodation, and the lifestyle of the people concerned. Many people seen on the Homes in the Sun programmes buy old, 3 storey properties out in the sticks (beautiful views but not very sensible as you get older). Stay realistic about where you will be in 5 and 10yrs. time. If you are 60 now, then stairs will be a little more difficult in 10yrs. Easy access to daily shopping and living facilities shoul be the top prioriry. If possible, have all you need within walking distance - walking is good for you and makes more sense than getting the car out to get a loaf of bread or pop to the post office for 1 letter," explained one expat.

"The exchange rate fluctuations make budgeting a little chaotic at times, but on the whole we have not had any financial worries so far. Having said that, we did ensure we were mortgage-free and had a bit of savings in the bank before moving to cope with any unexpected emergencies. Day to day living can be as inexpensive or as expensive as you make it. If you keep going out for coffees, drinks, or meals, then your budget will rocket fast," remarked one in Aude and Herault Departments.

"Exceeded them even with the moving exchange rates. If you live outside of Paris or the popular tourist areas it is less expensive. Many of the services are very heap,compared to the US. Medical services here are excellent," explained one expat.

"Living in France may be more affordable than living in the United States for some people, due to the relatively low cost of living in the country. Housing prices in France tend to be less expensive than in the US, and basic items like food, public transportation, and utilities are also typically more affordable. Depending on people’s lifestyle, the price of living in France could end up being significantly lower than in the US," said one person in France.

"The cost of housing in France varies greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Overall, it is generally more expensive to rent than to own property, although buying a property in France can be an expensive venture due to high taxes and notary fees. The cost of housing in Paris is particularly high, but in other parts of the country, prices can be quite affordable," remarked one in France.

"Well, because it's a state home our rent is very cheap. Still you can't compare to all of America. Normally rent here is much cheaper than New York City. But it's still much higher than, say, in Tucson, Arizona where I also lived. I know before, apartments in Paris could run from 125 - 150 FF per square meter. You do the math for Euros," explained one expat.

"The rental price for a nice one bedroom apartment in France is typically between 800-1200 US Dollars per month, while the rental price for a nice two bedroom apartment in France is usually between 900-1400 US Dollars per month," commented one expat living in France.

"A rental property in France typically includes basic kitchen appliances such as a refrigerator and stovetop, as well as a washing machine and dryer. In some cases, air conditioners and heating systems are also included. Furnishings, such as a bed and chairs, are usually not provided," commented one expat who moved to France.