Paris is a city of unparalleled beauty and cultural depth, which is why it’s so popular among students from around the world. However, the reality is that living in Paris can also come with a high price tag. For foreign students, understanding the cost of living in Paris is crucial for planning a successful and enjoyable stay. With a well-structured budget and some useful tips, you can make the most of your experience without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll break down the primary costs involved in living as a student in Paris — from rent and groceries to transportation and entertainment — and offer some practical advice on managing these expenses.
Breaking Down the Costs: The Essentials
Let’s start with the essentials. As a foreign student, your main expenses will likely include rent, utilities, food, transportation, and health insurance. Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, costs can vary widely, but the following table provides a general overview of the average monthly costs.
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (EUR) | Notes |
| Rent (shared apartment) | €500 – €900 | Varies by location and type of accommodation |
| Utilities (electricity, internet) | €70 – €150 | Split among roommates if sharing |
| Food and Groceries | €200 – €300 | Cooking at home helps save money |
| Public Transportation | €38 (student Navigo pass) | Covers unlimited metro, bus, and tram travel |
| Health Insurance | €0 – €40 | Free for EU students; non-EU students may need a “mutuelle” |
| Mobile Phone | €15 – €30 | Based on a standard student plan |
| Entertainment and Misc. | €100 – €200 | Cinema, museum visits, occasional dining out |
| Total Monthly Estimate | €923 – €1,658 | Can vary based on lifestyle |
1. Accommodation: Finding an Affordable Place to Live
The biggest expense for most students is rent, especially in a major city like Paris. Average monthly rent for a foreign student living in a shared apartment or university residence ranges from €500 to €900. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
University Residences: Managed by CROUS (the regional student services center), these dormitories are often the most affordable option, costing between €250 and €450 per month. However, demand is high, so it’s essential to apply early.
Shared Apartments: A popular choice for students, especially in areas close to universities or student hubs like the Latin Quarter. Sharing an apartment with roommates reduces costs to around €500 to €900 per month.
Private Studios: If you prefer more independence, renting a studio apartment is an option, though it’s more costly, with prices typically ranging from €800 to €1,200 per month.
Finding a place in central Paris will naturally cost more than neighborhoods on the outskirts, but even living a bit further out is manageable, thanks to Paris’s excellent public transportation network.
2. Utilities and Internet
Utilities are often an overlooked cost. In shared apartments, utility costs (electricity, water, heating, and internet) can run between €70 and €150 per month, with internet alone costing around €20 to €30 monthly. If you’re sharing these expenses with roommates, it will significantly reduce individual costs. Additionally, many student residences include some utilities in the rent, which helps simplify budgeting.
3. Food and Grocery Expenses
While Paris is famous for its cuisine, eating out regularly can quickly become expensive. A foreign student should expect to spend between €200 and €300 per month on groceries, depending on where you shop and how often you cook at home.
Groceries: Shopping at budget-friendly supermarkets like Lidl, Carrefour, or Monoprix can help keep grocery costs low. Local markets, which are abundant in Paris, offer fresh produce and can sometimes be cheaper than supermarkets, particularly if you shop towards the end of the day when vendors discount leftover goods.
Eating Out: Dining out can range from €10 to €15 for a casual meal, but a standard three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost between €25 and €40. Many cafes offer student discounts, and bakeries are great for affordable, delicious meals like sandwiches, which cost around €5.
4. Transportation Costs
Paris’s public transport system is reliable, extensive, and student-friendly. With the Navigo Pass, students under 26 can get a monthly discount, paying €38 for unlimited access to the metro, buses, and trams within Paris and the surrounding regions. Cycling is also a popular option in Paris, and the Vélib’ bike-sharing program offers affordable rates, with an annual subscription for as little as €34.
5. Health Insurance and Medical Expenses
Healthcare is another essential expense to consider. France has a strong social security system, and health insurance is mandatory for all students. For EU students, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers most healthcare needs. Non-EU students, however, must register for French health insurance, which is generally free or low-cost. Many students also choose supplementary insurance (a “mutuelle”) for extended coverage, which can cost around €20 to €40 per month.
6. Mobile Phone and Internet
Having a mobile phone is a necessity for staying connected, especially if you’re away from home. Student mobile plans in France are relatively affordable, with companies like Free and SFR offering plans for as low as €15 to €30 per month. These plans usually include generous data allowances, which is helpful for both studying on the go and keeping in touch with family and friends.
7. Entertainment and Social Life
Paris is a city bursting with culture and social life, which is one of its great appeals for students. However, it’s essential to budget for these activities to avoid overspending.
Museums and Cultural Sites: Many museums in Paris, such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, offer free entry for students under 26 or significantly discounted tickets, so you can enjoy art and history on a budget.
Cinema and Theater: Cinema tickets cost around €7 to €12, but many theaters have student rates. Independent cinemas often run classic films at a discount, offering a unique cultural experience for students.
Socialising: A night out with friends in Paris can vary widely in cost. Drinks at a cafe or bar typically range from €5 to €10. Many student-friendly bars and cafes offer “happy hours” with discounted prices, and some establishments offer special rates for students.
Budgeting Tips for Living in Paris
Take Advantage of Student Discounts: From museums to public transport, students get great discounts in Paris. Always carry your student ID, as it can save you a considerable amount on daily expenses.
Cook at Home: Preparing your meals at home is one of the most effective ways to manage costs. Local markets offer affordable, fresh ingredients that can turn cooking into a delightful and budget-friendly experience.
Shop at Thrift Stores: Paris is famous for its fashion, but keeping up with the latest trends can be expensive. Thankfully, there are many thrift stores (friperies) where you can find stylish clothes at low prices.
Plan Your Budget and Track Spending: Using a budgeting app like Mint or YNAB (You Need a Budget) can help you stay on top of your expenses and avoid any financial surprises.
Explore Free Activities: Paris has numerous parks, free exhibitions, and festivals that you can enjoy without spending much. The city’s parks, like the Jardin du Luxembourg and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, are perfect for a budget-friendly day out.
Final Thoughts on Student Life in Paris
Living in Paris as a foreign student can be an unforgettable experience, filled with cultural enrichment, academic achievement, and personal growth. But as with any major city, planning is essential.
By understanding the main costs, leveraging student discounts, and budgeting wisely, you can make your Parisian experience both enjoyable and financially manageable. With a little discipline and strategic spending, life in Paris can be everything you dreamed of without financial stress.
