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Paris, France: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Paris | Expat Exchange
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Montmarte in Paris

Paris

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 22, 2023

Summary: The population of Paris, France is 2.2 million people. Paris is a romantic, vibrant, and culturally rich city. Expats love the city's rich history, art, and architecture, as well as its lively nightlife and excellent food. The weather in Paris is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 37°F (3°C) in the winter to an average high of 77°F (25°C) in the summer. The average cost of living in Paris for an expat is estimated to be around $2,500 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment in Paris is typically around $1,500 per month, while a two bedroom apartment can cost around $2,000 per month.

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What do I need to know about living in Paris?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Paris, they said:

"Planning for a retirement in Paris requires a thorough investigation into the country's immigration laws and policies. Expats should research what documents are necessary for entry and residency, and also familiarize themselves with the taxation policies relevant to their retirement income. It is important to understand the French healthcare system and to have a plan for accessing healthcare services for expats. Also, it is essential to research housing options, since rent in Paris is typically significantly more expensive than many other cities. Lastly, before choosing to retire in Paris, expats should ensure that the lifestyle and culture of France will suit their needs and preferences," said one expat in Paris, France.

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What do I need to know before moving to Paris?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Paris, they said:

"Paris is a vibrant, beautiful city and a popular destination for expats. Before moving to Paris, it is essential to make sure you research carefully and are aware of French customs and local laws. Additionally, securing health insurance and finding suitable housing may also be a challenge to consider in advance. Learning basic French is also important to help you get around the city, as well as to make the transition to living in Paris easier. Additionally, it is important to stay in the know about the transportation and local emergency services available in the city, as well as understanding the cost of living and the availability of different services like banking and grocery stores," explained one expat living in Paris, France, France.

How do I find a place to live in Paris?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When considering finding a place to live in Paris, it is important to research the many options available. Depending on your budget and preferences, you could look for a rental on sites such as Airbnb, SeLoger and LeBonCoin, or explore options on corporate housing sites, such as Nestpick and Homelike. You could also look at real estate agents such as Paris Housing, who will help you to find a home tailored to your needs. Additionally, there is the possibility of finding sublets or long-term accommodations through the many Facebook groups dedicated to helping expats find the perfect living space. Take your time to research and explore the various options, since finding the perfect new home in a city as large and diverse as Paris is no easy task," commented one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Paris?

"A typical expat home or apartment in Paris is typically quite small with basic furnishings, as space is limited. The apartments are generally suitable for single occupants or a couple, but can be modified to fit more people. Many are located in the outer neighbourhoods of the city, away from the touristy areas and closer to Parisian living. Features like balconies and high ceilings can be found for a slight upgrade in price. The walls may be adorned with artwork and other decorative items, and many apartments feature modern amenities such as free WiFi, a full kitchen, and a washing machine," said one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

What is the average cost of housing in Paris?

If you are thinking about moving to Paris, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Paris is generally quite expensive, with prices usually ranging between €1200 and €2500 per month for a one bedroom apartment in the city center. Monthly rentals for apartments in the suburbs tend to be cheaper, but can still range between €850 and €1400 per month," wrote a member in Paris, France.

How do I meet people in Paris?

When we asked people living in Paris about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups and meetups, running and biking groups, international book clubs, and cultural interest groups. Expats can also find French conversation partners through websites and apps. Other ways to meet people in Paris include attending art fairs, music and theater shows, visiting tourist attractions, and making conversation with people in local cafes and restaurants," commented one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

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What should I bring when moving to Paris?

People living in Paris were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When moving to Paris it is essential to pack comfortable clothing for the variable weather. An umbrella or raincoat is important for the frequent showers. A healthy supply of cupboard staples, cooking items and cutlery is also important to make settling in easier. Any important documents such as passport and visas should also be packed. Other items such as a money belt, bottled water, multi-plug adaptors, sunglasses and a language guide may come in handy. Lastly, don't forget to bring along a sense of adventure and a willingness to explore the city of love," wrote one member in Paris, France.

Where should I setup a bank account in Paris?

We asked expats in Paris what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in Paris, it is important to make sure that you have sufficient finances to cover your living costs such as accommodation, healthcare, and food. Additionally, if you are not covered by the French healthcare system it may be useful to obtain private insurance to supplement it. Make sure you also research your neighbourhood of choice and its amenities to ensure you are comfortable with the area you will be living in. Obtaining a residence permit will also be necessary to stay in the country, and you may need to take a French language test. Finally, familiarise yourself with the local tax system to make sure you’re aware of the taxes you may need to pay," wrote a member in Paris, France.

Will I be able to find a job in Paris?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Paris, they reponded:

"Foreigners living in Paris may take up a variety of job opportunities. One popular area is hospitality services, such as working in restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions. Many bilingual people find work as language instructors or translators. There is also a lot of potential in the retail, finance, and consulting industries. Additionally, a number of global business enterprises hire people to work in their Paris offices," explained one expat living in Paris, France, France.

What is life like in Paris?

When we asked people living in Paris what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Paris as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of culture, art, and history, and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, world-class restaurants, and unique shopping experiences. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and easy access to other parts of Europe. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the city's excellent healthcare system and affordable housing options. With its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere, Paris is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and rewarding experience," said one expat who made the move to Paris.

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What do expats in Paris appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expats in Paris appreciate the vibrant nightlife, the rich culture of art and architecture, and the opportunity to explore a wide range of cuisines. The city offers an abundance of art galleries, museums, parks, and bistros in which locals and visitors alike can experience the best of Parisian living. In addition, they can explore the surrounding countryside full of quaint villages, luxurious countryside hotels and chateaux, and the beautiful coastlines along the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, the locals are known for their friendly nature and willingness to share their culture and customs with expats," commented one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

What do expats find most challenging?

"The bureaucracy is pretty irritating. Probably the worst is the tendency of the French to keep to themselves and their network of friends. Makes it exceedingly difficult to rebuild my social network. The language is causing me a lot of trouble," remarked one expat who made the move to Paris.

"Many expats in Paris find it challenging to adjust to the pace of life in the city. The pace of life in Paris is usually quite fast, with many people rushing about to get places on time. Moreover, the French culture places a strong emphasis on politeness. Even strangers that meet in passing exchange formal greetings and bear the expectation of being polite. This difference in social interaction can be difficult for expats to adjust to, as it may be different to the culture they are accustomed to. Additionally, the French language can be difficult to learn, particularly for those who don’t have a background in Romance languages. Expats often find themselves struggling to make themselves understood, and can find it difficult to fit in with the locals," explained one expat living in Paris, France, France.

Is there a lot of crime in Paris?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Like any major city, Paris has a certain level of crime. Tourists should take sensible safety precautions and be aware of potential risks when travelling around Paris. It is generally safe to walk around most areas of the city during the day but it is recommended to avoid walking alone at night. Pick-pocketing, purse snatching and general theft from cars are the most common types of crime, serving as a reminder to remain vigilant and not leave your possessions unattended," remarked one expat living in Paris, France, France.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Paris accepting of differences?

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Paris. The city is home to people from many different backgrounds and cultures, including ethnic minorities from all over the world. The people of Paris are generally welcoming and accepting of differences, and it is common to see different cultures blending and living alongside each other," commented one expat who made the move to Paris, France.

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What are the schools in Paris like?

"I think this school has a lot to offer our children due to vast resources available. They take frequent field trips which tie in with their classroom work. There is a lot of creative writing done at all grade levels which I think prepares them well for upper school and college," remarked one expat living in Paris with children attending American School of Paris.

"The American School of Paris (ASP) is an independent non-profit school located in Saint-Cloud, a small suburb outside of Paris. ASP is renowned for its bilingual curriculum and its academy-style teaching methods to teach an international student body of over 1,000 students from preschool to grade 12. To stay connected culturally to both America and France, the curriculum is based on American standards and tailored to the French system. The Lycées International des Champs-Elysées is a well-known and highly sought out international school located in the 16th arrondissement. With over 600 students enrolled, the school offers trilingual education in French, English and German. Its main goal is to prepare students to work and live in a globalized and multicultural world. The International School of Paris (ISP) is situated in the 17th arrondissement and offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) program as well as English National Curriculum to its student body of 950 students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. ISP is recognized for its support for students from more than 45 countries, its versatile extracurricular activities, and its courses dedicated to students from non-English speaking backgrounds. The International School of France (ISF) is situated in the 16th arrondissement as one of the top-notch international schools in Paris. ISF educates over 900 students from nearly 90 different countries through its multilingual, international curriculum options from preprimary up to grade 12. ISF also offers a wide variety of extracurricular activities that promote extracurricular learning and encourages international awareness," said one expat in Paris, France with children at .

What are the pros and cons of living in Paris?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Paris responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the culture and history of Paris. They enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, its world-class restaurants, and its many attractions. They also appreciate the city's excellent public transportation system, which makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Paris to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak French," wrote one expat living in Paris.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Paris?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Paris, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Paris typically have an active social life. They often join local clubs and organizations, attend cultural events, and explore the city's many attractions. They also make friends with other expats, retirees and digital nomads, as well as locals, and often meet up for drinks, meals, and other activities. Additionally, many expats, retirees and digital nomads take advantage of the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and restaurants," mentioned one expat inParis.

"The social scene in Paris is vibrant and diverse. There are a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a wide range of cultural activities to take part in. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Paris is also home to a thriving nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and music venues to explore. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or a wild night out, Paris has something for everyone," remarked one expat in Paris.

What advice to expats in Paris have about housing?

"Expats in Paris suggest researching rental listings as early as possible to have the best chance of securing desirable housing. Additionally, when searching for a place to live, considering the convenience of public transportation such as buses and metro lines is advised. Due to the high cost of living in Paris, forming a housing share with other expats may be a beneficial money-saving option. It is also important to confirm the payment of utilities and any other costs upfront. Ultimately, it is suggested that expats secure accommodations in person rather than online, as this allows for a more thorough assessment and negotiation of the terms of the agreement," said one expat living in Paris.

What are medical services in Paris like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Paris, they replied:

"Paris offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city is home to a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care, emergency services, and preventive care. Additionally, Paris is home to a number of specialized medical centers, such as those dedicated to cancer treatment, cardiology, and neurology. Paris also has a number of pharmacies, where visitors can purchase over-the-counter medications and other medical supplies," wrote one expat living in Paris.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Paris?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Paris can be expensive. The cost of healthcare in France is generally higher than in other countries, and the cost of health insurance can vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. In addition, the cost of healthcare in Paris is often higher than in other parts of France due to the higher cost of living in the city. However, the French government does provide subsidies for those who cannot afford health insurance, and there are also a number of private health insurance providers that offer competitive rates," said an expat in Paris.

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Is the cost of living in Paris high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Paris, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Paris can generally be considered to be relatively high when compared to other cities around the world. Rent prices in Paris tend to be quite high, ranging from around 900USD for a nice 1 bedroom apartment to 1,400USD for a 2 bedroom apartment. Eating out at a moderately priced restaurant would usually cost around 25 - 30USD per person," mentioned one expat inParis.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Paris?

"In order to visit Paris, a foreign national usually needs to apply for a visa with the French Consulate before entering the country. The visa application process takes into account several factors such as the applicant’s country of residence and citizenship, purpose of the trip, duration of the stay, and financial resources. The individual will be required to provide proof of financial capacity, identity documents, and a travel itinerary. Non-EU nationals may also apply for residency in Paris, France. The process for obtaining a residence permit for longer stays (>90 days) requires the individual to submit an application form with various types of supporting documents to the French Immigration and Integration Office. After submitting the application, the individual will be invited for an interview where they will be required to answer questions in French about their motives for residing in France. The residence permit is valid for a maximum of 1 year and can be renewed if needed," commented one expat living in Paris, France.

Why do people move to Paris?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Paris, they responded:

"Paris offers a unique cultural experience with its stunning monuments, long history, and diverse population. The city offers a range of entertainment such as world class museums, theaters, and parks, providing something for everyone to enjoy. Paris is also a great place to shop, with its iconic department stores and boutiques. The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit all tastes. Expats are also attracted to Paris due to its excellent public transport system and its proximity to other European cities. Additionally, the cost of living in Paris is competitive compared to other major cities," mentioned an expat living in Paris.

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.

Montmarte in Paris

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