The Cost of Living in Paris for Three Months

Paris, the capital of France is one of the most expensive cities in the world and boasts one of the highest standards of living. You can actually live there on a budget, but it all comes at a cost.

Paris, The City of Light (La Ville Lumière)

If you are planning on visiting Paris for more than two weeks then you will definitely have to create a budget that will hold you over for the time you plan on spending there.

For me it has been a little easier as I have accommodations in Paris so my budget will be geared towards food, entertainment and obviously traveling.

So, let's begin to consider the things you might need while living in Paris. Whether it is a haircut, or medicine or even a bottle of wine. All of these things can be reasonable, but compared to prices in the United States sometimes they can be higher than expected.

When it comes to grocery shopping, the good thing about Paris is that most of the refrigerators in the city are small. So you will be going to the grocery store often, but rest assured that you will learn quickly to buy only the necessities. 

If you need accommodations I would suggest looking into AirBnB as they tend to be more reflexible in their requirements for short term leasing. To actually rent long term n the city is extremely difficult and only to be done if you are expecting on staying at least a year.

So, assuming you have to find accommodations and will be spending money on food, entertainment and possibly traveling you should average about $4,500 a month to live in the city. If you are willing to live further out from Paris the prices go down especially on your accommodations. 

Regardless, if you can spare the three months allotted to non French citizens wanting to live in the city and can budget a reasonable amount I suggest you definitely try it. For most this would be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Make your dream a reality, I did.