France has long been recognized as one of the most attractive academic destinations for international students seeking high-quality education at an affordable cost. Beyond its renowned universities and rich cultural heritage, France offers a lifestyle that many students find both inspiring and financially manageable.
That said, living expenses can fluctuate depending on personal preferences, the city you choose, and how you manage your daily necessities. This comprehensive guide outlines the key components of student living costs in France, to help you plan your finances effectively and make well-informed decisions before beginning your academic journey.
Average Monthly Expenses for Students
Understanding your monthly expenses is the first step to creating a realistic student budget. While costs depend on location and lifestyle, most international students spend €800 to €1,200 per month to cover essentials such as accommodation, food, transportation, insurance, and personal needs.
Here’s a clear breakdown of the monthly Student Expenses in France:
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (€) | Notes |
| Accommodation | 300–600 | Cheapest in CROUS, higher for private studios |
| Food & Dining | 200–300 | Costs vary by city and eating habits |
| Transportation | 30–70 | Student metro passes available in major cities |
| Health Insurance | 25–40 | Mandatory for non-EU students |
| Utilities & Internet | 50–100 | Depending on heating and apartment size |
| Leisure & Miscellaneous | 100–200 | Includes entertainment, clothes, study materials |
| ➡️ Total Estimated Cost | 800–1,200 | Average monthly cost of living in France for students |
| For a complete overview of financial planning and budgeting, you can explore the Study Program in France. |
Cost of Housing in Different Cities
Housing is the largest part of the cost of living in France for students. Rents vary widely depending on the city, the type of accommodation, and the distance from university campuses. While Paris is known for higher housing costs, many student-friendly cities offer far more affordable options.
Below is an updated overview of average housing costs in major French cities:
| City | Student Housing (€/Month) | Key Notes |
| Paris | €500–€900 | Highest demand, central campuses, limited CROUS availability. |
| Lyon | €400–€800 | Popular for business & culinary studies; good student districts. |
| Toulouse | €150–€600 | Known for aerospace programs and affordable rents. |
| Lille | €150–€400 | Budget-friendly, excellent for first-year international students. |
| Bordeaux | €200–€400 | Balanced lifestyle, affordable student housing, vibrant city life. |
| For more information check also: Accommodation in France |
Transportation and Food Costs
Transportation and food make up a significant portion of the France student expenses, but both can be managed efficiently with student discounts, smart shopping, and meal planning. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect to spend each month.
Monthly Transport & Food Expenses in France
| Expense Category | Average Cost (EUR) | Notes |
| Monthly Public Transport Pass | €30–€75 | Depends on city (e.g., Paris Navigo: €75). Student discounts widely available. |
| One-Way Metro/Bus Ticket | €1.50–€2.50 | Varies by city and zone. |
| Bicycle Rentals (e.g., Vélib’, Vélov’, Vcube) | €15–€25 | Popular and eco-friendly transport option. |
| Monthly Groceries | €150–€250 | Costs vary depending on supermarket choice. |
| Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant | €10–€15 | Common for student lunches. |
| Coffee / Croissant Combo | €4–€6 | A typical French breakfast. |
Saving Tips for International Students in France
Managing the cost of living in France for students becomes much easier when you follow a few smart budgeting strategies. Whether you’re studying in Paris or a more affordable city, these tips help you stretch your budget without compromising your student experience. Smart Budget Tips for Students:
• Choose Budget-Friendly Cities: Living in cities like Lille, Toulouse, Clermont-Ferrand, or Nantes can reduce your expenses by up to 30% compared to Paris.
• Apply for Subsidized Housing (CROUS + CAF): Student residences like CROUS offer the lowest accommodation prices, and applying for CAF can further reduce your monthly rent.
• Use Monthly Transport Passes: Public transport passes provide significant savings, especially in big cities where student discounts are available.
• Shop at Local Markets Instead of Supermarkets: Fresh markets often offer lower prices for fruits, vegetables, and local products — helping you keep grocery costs low.
• Cook at Home More Often: Eating at home instead of dining out can save €100–€150 per month — a major part of student budgeting.
• Take Advantage of Student Discounts: From museums and cinema tickets to gym memberships and transportation, France offers a wide range of student deals.
| To reduce your overall expenses and improve your daily life in France, learning French can be a major advantage. You can explore more details here: French Language Courses |
Scholarships and Part-Time Jobs for Students in France
Financing your studies in France becomes much easier when you combine scholarships with part-time work opportunities. Many international students successfully manage a large portion of their monthly budget through funded support and student-friendly job options. Living costs in France vary by city. However, scholarships and part-time jobs significantly reduce overall expenses.
Scholarship Opportunities
France offers a wide range of scholarships through government programs, universities, and external organizations. Some scholarships cover full tuition fees, while others provide monthly stipends to help students manage daily living expenses. Popular scholarship benefits often include:
• Tuition fee waivers (partial or full)
• Monthly allowance for accommodation, meals, or transportation
• Coverage for health insurance and visa fees
• Travel grants for international students
You can explore the best available options here: French scholarships
Part-Time Jobs for International Students
International students in France are allowed to work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week). These jobs help cover daily expenses while giving students valuable work experience in a multicultural environment. Common part-time job options include:
• University assistant roles (library, IT desk, admin support)
• Hospitality positions (cafés, restaurants, bakeries)
• Retail jobs (shops, supermarkets, boutiques)
• Babysitting or tutoring (especially English tutoring)
• Campus jobs for events or student services
| For detailed guidance on required documents, procedures, and step-by-step support, you can also explore our Visa Services in France |
Conclusion
Managing the cost of living in France for students becomes much easier when you understand your monthly expenses and plan ahead. By choosing student-friendly accommodation, using transport discounts, cooking at home, and exploring budget-smart options, you can enjoy a comfortable and affordable study experience in France—no matter which city you choose.
Ready to study in France with confidence and a clear financial plan?
At Euroglobe Education, we support international students with every step of the journey — from program selection and admission guidance to visa services, accommodation support, and budgeting advice. We make your transition to France smooth, secure, and stress-free.
