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Other than local moving in London, relocating to France is a dream for many expats, but understanding the cost of living is crucial for a successful relocation. After Brexit, there have been several changes that UK citizens need to consider when planning their move to France. This guide explores the key expenses you will face, from housing and transportation to food and healthcare, to help you budget effectively for life in France.
Rental Prices: Housing is likely to be your largest expense in France. The cost of renting an apartment varies significantly depending on the location. For example, in Paris, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from €1,200 to €2,500 per month. In smaller cities or rural areas, rents are more affordable, ranging from €500 to €900 per month for a similar-sized property.
Buying Property: If you plan to purchase property, prices also differ widely. In Paris, property prices average around €10,000 per square meter, whereas in other cities like Lyon or Marseille, prices can range from €3,000 to €5,000 per square meter. Additionally, you need to budget for notary fees and taxes, which typically amount to about 7-10% of the property’s purchase price.
In addition to rent or mortgage payments, you will need to budget for utilities such as electricity, water, and gas. On average, a basic utility package (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m² apartment costs around €150 per month. Internet and phone packages are relatively affordable, ranging from €20 to €50 per month, depending on the provider and the speed of the service.
Groceries: The cost of groceries in France is generally in line with other Western European countries. A monthly grocery bill for a single person can range from €200 to €400, depending on your shopping habits and dietary preferences. Local markets offer fresh produce at reasonable prices, and supermarkets provide a wide range of options from budget to premium products.
Dining Out: Eating out in France can be an enjoyable experience, but it also adds to your monthly expenses. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around €15, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant may set you back around €50-€80. Dining out regularly can significantly impact your budget, so it’s essential to factor this in if you enjoy experiencing French cuisine.
Public Transportation: France boasts an efficient and extensive public transport system, particularly in major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. A monthly public transport pass costs around €75 to €100, depending on the city and the zones covered. Single tickets usually cost between €1.50 and €2.00.
Owning a Car: If you prefer driving, owning a car comes with its own set of expenses, including fuel, insurance, parking, and maintenance. Petrol prices fluctuate, but on average, you can expect to pay around €1.80 per liter. Car insurance typically costs between €500 and €1,000 per year, depending on the vehicle and coverage level.
Public Healthcare: France’s healthcare system is considered one of the best in the world. Expats are eligible to access the public healthcare system, but it requires enrolling in the French Social Security system (PUMa). Once enrolled, you pay approximately 7-8% of your income, which covers around 70% of most medical costs.
Private Health Insurance: To cover the remaining 30%, you may opt for private health insurance, known as “mutuelle.” The cost of private health insurance varies depending on the level of coverage, with prices typically ranging from €50 to €200 per month per person.
If you are moving to France with children, education costs will be another consideration. Public schools in France are free, but you may need to budget for books, supplies, and extracurricular activities. International schools, which offer curricula in English, charge tuition fees ranging from €10,000 to €30,000 per year, depending on the school and grade level.
France is renowned for its cultural attractions, from museums and theaters to festivals and outdoor activities. A cinema ticket costs around €10, while museum entrance fees range from €5 to €20. Many cultural sites offer discounts or free entry on certain days. Gym memberships cost around €30 to €60 per month, depending on the location and facilities.
To give you an idea, a single person living in Paris may need a budget of around €2,000 to €3,000 per month to cover rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and leisure activities. In smaller cities or rural areas, the budget may be lower, ranging from €1,200 to €2,000 per month. For families, the cost can increase significantly, depending on lifestyle and the number of dependents.
If you are planning to move to France from Bromley, London, VanOne International Movers offers a reliable and affordable solution for your relocation needs. Specializing in removals to France, VanOne provides comprehensive services to ensure a smooth transition. From packing and transportation to customs clearance and delivery, their team is committed to providing high-quality service tailored to your specific requirements.
VanOne International Movers offers competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Their experienced team handles every aspect of your move with care, so you can focus on settling into your new home in France. Whether you are moving to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, or a charming countryside village, VanOne will make your relocation as stress-free as possible.