Considering a move to France in 2024? The allure of this charming country is undeniable. From its rich cultural heritage to its renowned quality of life, France beckons expats seeking new adventures. In this guide, we’ll delve into the various facets of the cost of living in France, comparing it to the UK and the US. We’ll also explore the average salaries, living expenses in different French cities, and provide key takeaways for your informed decision-making.Â
Table of Contents
Why people choose to move to France?
In 2024, France continues to captivate expats from diverse backgrounds, attracting them with its unparalleled quality of life. Renowned for its cultural richness, France secured a remarkable ninth place for quality of life among 46 countries, far surpassing the UK, which ranked significantly lower at 44th. The allure of France lies in its vibrant culture, exemplified by its world-renowned cuisine, art, and architecture. Moreover, the country boasts an exceptional education system, offering access to prestigious schools and universities.
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Cost of living in France vs in the UK (2024)
In 2024, both France and the UK have felt the effects of the ongoing cost of living crisis, influenced by factors such as escalating energy and fuel costs, disruptions in supply chains, and unpredictable weather conditions. Despite these challenges, the French government has taken proactive measures to alleviate the burden on citizens. This includes implementing caps on gas and electricity price hikes and offering financial aid to various sectors.
In terms of average monthly salaries and living expenses, France typically maintains slightly higher living costs compared to the UK. However, these differences are often offset by the relatively lower expenses for accommodation, childcare, and utilities in France. Consequently, many individuals and families find France to be an appealing option despite the higher overall living expenses. The combination of governmental support measures and the relatively lower costs of essential services makes France a compelling choice for those seeking a better quality of life amidst the current economic challenges.
Cost of living comparison (2024)
- Consumer prices in the UK are 4.1% lower than in France (without rent)
- Consumer prices included rent in the UK are 7.8% higher than in France
- Restaurant prices in the UK are 8.9% higher than in France
- Groceries prices in the UK are 19.9% lower than in France
- Local purchasing power in the UK is 9.8% higher than in France
- Childcare in the UK is 109.9% higher than in France
Property prices comparison (2024)
- Monthly rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in the city centre in the UK is 57.6% higher than in France
- Monthly rent for a 1 bedroom apartment outside of the city centre in the UK is 75.7% higher than in France
- Price per square feet to buy an apartment in the city centre in the UK is 13.4% lower than in France
- Price per square feet to buy an apartment outside of the city centre in the UK is 5.1% lower than in France
Cost of living in France vs in the US (2024)
For those considering France as an expat haven, a comparison with the US sheds further light. France emerges as a more affordable choice. Consumer prices, rent and grocery costs in the US outpace those in France. This trend holds even when comparing renowned cities like Paris and New-York. When you factor in the quality of life, healthcare benefits and cultural experiences, France’s value proposition becomes even more enticing.Â
Cost of living comparison (2024)
- Consumer prices in the US are 9.6% higher than in France (without rent)
- Consumer prices included rent in the US are 29.9% higher than in France
- Restaurant prices in the US are 17.6% higher than in France
- Groceries prices in the US are 6.8% higher than in France
- Local purchasing power in the US is 40.3% higher than in France
Property prices comparison (2024)
- Monthly rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in the city centre in the US is 104.8% higher than in France
- Monthly rent for a 1 bedroom apartment outside of the city centre in the US is 129.5% higher than in France
- Price per square feet to buy an apartment in the city centre in the US is 52.8% lower than in France
- Price per square feet to buy an apartment outside of the city centre in the US is 44.6% higher than in France
Average French salaries and living expenses
Average monthly salaries in France vary across sectors:
- Private sectors workers earning around £2,257
- Public sectors workers earning around £2,086
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Despite slightly higher living costs, France offers relative affordability in areas such as rent and childcare:
- A family of four estimated monthly costs are £2,919 without rent
- A single person estimated monthly costs are £817 without rent
Impact of inflation and events in 2024
In 2024, the impact of inflation and various events has significantly influenced the cost of living in France and other countries. Like many G7 nations, France grapples with its own set of challenges contributing to the cost of living crisis. Factors such as soaring energy costs, disruptions in global supply chains, and fluctuating weather conditions affecting food production have contributed to rising living expenses.
To address these challenges, the French government has implemented several measures aimed at mitigating the impact on its citizens. These include capping energy price increases to provide relief to consumers, offering employment benefits to those affected by economic uncertainties, and subsidising essential expenses such as transportation and childcare. These measures are designed to alleviate the financial strain on households and promote economic stability amidst the prevailing inflationary pressures and external events.
Cost of living in Paris in 2024
Living in the heart of Paris comes with its own charm, but it’s important to note that central areas often entail higher living costs. Despite this, Paris still remains more affordable than living in London. The city offers a unique blend of history , culture and modernity. The cost of living in Versailles, with its picturesque surroundings, is relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for expats.Â
- A family of four estimated monthly costs are £3,400 without rent
- A single person estimated monthly costs are £951 without rent
- Paris is 4.1% less expensive than London (without rent)
- Rent in Paris is, on average, 39.9% lower than in London
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Cost of living in the French Riviera in 2024
The French Riviera is a sought-after destination known for its year-round sunshine, fresh food, and outdoor activities. The cost of living in cities like Nice, Marseille and Cannes offers budget-friendly alternative to larger metropolises, without compromising on lifestyle.
- A family of four estimated monthly costs are £2,879 without rent
- A single person estimated monthly costs are £812 without rent
- Nice is 15.6% less expensive than London
- Rent in Nice is, on average, 55.9% lower than in London
Key takeaways on the cost of living in France
Monthly costs: the average cost of living per month for a single person without rent is £817 while a family of four may spend around £2,919 (without rent)
Government initiatives: the French government offers support through rebates on fuel, capped energy price increases, tax-free employment benefits and the elimination of TV licenses.Â
City-specific affordability: Paris is pricier, but other cities like Marseille, Versailles, Cannes or the countryside provide diverse, affordable living options.
Affordability vs the US and Canada: France offers more cost-effective living compared to the US and Canada, especially considering rental prices in cities like New-York.
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Deciding to move to France is a significant step, and understanding the cost of living is essential for a smooth transition. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture and relatively affordable lifestyle, France stands as an appealing destination for expats seeking a new chapter in this charming country.Â
*We used Numbeo for the cost of living and property prices comparison.Â
