Living in Paris can be expensive, but it is possible to manage costs effectively with proper budgeting. Here is a detailed breakdown of the typical living expenses students can expect:
Accommodation
University Housing
On-campus accommodation is available for international students through the CROUS (Regional Centre for University and School Works). Prices for university-managed housing range from €300 to €600 per month for shared rooms or apartments.
Private Housing
Renting a private apartment in Paris can be more expensive. Prices for a studio or one-bedroom apartment in central Paris range from €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on the location. If you are living in the outer arrondissements or suburbs, you may find cheaper options, with rents ranging from €500 to €900 per month.
Shared Accommodation
Sharing an apartment with other students is a popular and cost-effective option, with rents typically ranging from €300 to €600 per month for a room in a shared flat.
Food and Groceries
Groceries
The average monthly grocery bill for a student is between €150 and €250, depending on your eating habits. Local markets and grocery stores like Monoprix and Carrefour offer affordable options for fresh produce, bread, dairy, and other staples.
Eating Out
Eating out at a café or bistro can cost between €10 and €20 for a meal, while a more upscale restaurant may charge €25 to €50 per person. Students can also find budget-friendly meals at university cafeterias or student-friendly eateries for around €5 to €10.
Shared Accommodation
Sharing an apartment with other students is a popular and cost-effective option, with rents typically ranging from €300 to €600 per month for a room in a shared flat.
Transportation
Public Transport
Paris has an extensive and affordable public transport system, including the Metro, buses, and RER trains. A monthly student pass for unlimited travel within Paris (zones 1-2) costs around €38. If you plan to travel outside Paris, the cost of train tickets can vary depending on the destination, but for short distances, tickets generally cost between €10 and €30.
Bicycles
Students can also use Velib’, Paris’s bike-sharing system, with rental costs starting from €1.70 per day or €29 per month.
Health Insurance
EU Students
EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical coverage in France.
Non-EU Students
Non-EU students are required to have health insurance. The student health insurance typically costs €217 per year. Alternatively, students can choose private health insurance plans.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Entertainment
For entertainment, students can expect to spend around €50 to €150 per month on activities like going to movies, concerts, and museums. Paris offers a range of free and low-cost cultural events, including exhibitions, festivals, and outdoor concerts.
Mobile Phone and Internet
A mobile phone plan in France typically costs between €10 and €30 per month, depending on the provider and data usage. High-speed internet is widely available, with costs ranging from €20 to €40 per month.