Cost of Living in Paris 2026: What Expats Actually Spend

Paris is expensive - but how expensive? The City of Light commands premium prices, especially for housing. Here's what expats actually spend, and the salary you need to enjoy Parisian life.

Rent: The Big Variable

Paris rent depends heavily on arrondissement. Here's what to expect for a 1-bedroom:^[?]

• Central (1st-4th, Le Marais): €1,800 - €2,500/month
• Popular (10th-11th, Oberkampf): €1,400 - €1,900/month
• Residential (15th-17th): €1,200 - €1,700/month
• Outer (19th-20th, Belleville): €1,100 - €1,500/month
• Suburbs (Boulogne, Neuilly): €1,000 - €1,600/month

Note: Furnished apartments typically cost 10-20% more. Most rentals require earning 3x the rent.

Monthly Expenses Breakdown

Beyond rent, here's what a single person typically spends:^[?]

• Groceries: €350 - €500
• Metro/transport (Navigo pass): €86.40
• Utilities: €100 - €150
• Mobile phone: €20 - €40
• Internet: €30 - €40
• Dining out: €200 - €400
• Entertainment: €100 - €250

Best Neighborhoods for Expats

• Le Marais (3rd-4th): Historic, trendy, central - expensive but iconic
• Oberkampf/Bastille (11th): Young, vibrant, good value for location
• Batignolles (17th): Village feel, families, less touristy
• Montmartre (18th): Artistic, charming, varied pricing
• Belleville (20th): Multicultural, affordable, increasingly hip

French Taxes

France has progressive income tax plus social charges:^[?]

• Up to €11,294: 0%
• €11,294 - €28,797: 11%
• €28,797 - €82,341: 30%
• €82,341 - €177,106: 41%
• Above €177,106: 45%

Plus ~9.7% social contributions (CSG/CRDS). For a €60,000 gross salary, expect ~€3,800/month net.

What Salary Do You Need?

• Survive (tight budget): €2,500 net/month
• Comfortable single: €3,500 - €4,500 net/month
• Comfortable couple: €5,000 - €6,500 net/month
• Family with children: €7,000+ net/month

Tips for Saving Money

• Shop at outdoor markets (marche) instead of supermarkets
• Lunch menus are much cheaper than dinner
• Many museums are free on first Sundays
• Consider inner suburbs with good RER connections
• Get a Navigo annual pass (€1,009) for unlimited transport