How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Living in Paris, the City of Lights, is a dream for many people. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and unparalleled cultural experiences, it’s no wonder that Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

But what about living in Paris? How much money do you need to live comfortably in this beautiful city?

The Cost of Living in Paris

Paris is known for being an expensive city to live in. The cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and where you choose to live. Generally speaking, the cost of living in Paris is higher than many other cities around the world.

Housing Costs

Housing costs are one of the biggest expenses when it comes to living in Paris. The price of rent or a mortgage can vary greatly depending on where you choose to live. In general, central areas like Le Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés tend to be more expensive than outer arrondissements like Montmartre or Belleville.

Some examples of average monthly rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment in different areas of Paris are:

  • Le Marais: €1,500 – €2,500
  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés: €1,800 – €3,000
  • Montmartre: €1,200 – €2,000
  • Belleville: €1,000 – €1,800

If you’re looking to buy property in Paris instead of renting it out then you need to be prepared with at least €9k-€11k per square meter which varies on the location.

Food Costs

Food costs also vary depending on your lifestyle and eating habits. If you prefer cooking at home and shopping at local markets, you can save a lot of money on food. However, if you like to eat out at restaurants and cafes frequently, this expense can add up quickly.

Some examples of average food costs in Paris are:

  • Croissant: €1 – €2
  • Coffee: €2 – €5
  • Lunch menu (starter, main course, dessert): €15 – €25
  • Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: €30 – €50

Transportation Costs

Public transportation is the most convenient and affordable way to get around Paris. The prices for monthly passes are as follows:

  • Navigo Pass (zones 1-5): €75.20 per month
  • Weekly pass (zones 1-3): €22.80 per week
  • Single ticket (zone 1): €1.90 each way

If you prefer taxis then expect to spend anywhere from €10-€20 for a short ride in the city.

The Bottom Line – How Much Money Do You Need?

So how much money do you need to live comfortably in Paris? The answer will depend on your lifestyle and budget priorities. However, here’s an estimate:

  • Rent or mortgage: €1,000 – €3,000 per month
  • Food expenses: €300 – €500 per month for groceries and dining out at mid-range restaurants.
  • Transportation expenses: around €75 per month for public transportation.

In total, expect to spend around €1,500 -€4k per month depending on your lifestyle.

Conclusion

Living in Paris can be expensive, but it’s also a unique and rewarding experience. If you’re planning on moving to Paris, it’s important to do your research and plan your budget accordingly. By considering the cost of housing, food, and transportation, you can estimate how much money you’ll need to live comfortably in this beautiful city.