The cost of living in France for a healthcare professional in 2026

Comparison of Cost of Living: Large Cities vs. Medium-Sized Cities

Major Cities

Major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille are often perceived as having a high cost of living, but it is essential to understand the main expense categories.

1. Housing: Housing is the largest expense category. In Paris, for example, the average rent for a three-room apartment can reach between 2,000 and 3,000 euros per month, while in Lyon or Marseille, it is between 1,200 and 1,800 euros per month.
2. Transport: Transport costs are also high, with a monthly public transportation subscription costing around 75 euros in Paris and 65 euros in Lyon.
3. Food: Food expenses in large cities are slightly above the national average. A meal in a mid-range restaurant costs between 15 and 25 euros.
4. Insurance: Health, home, and car insurance can represent a significant expense, with annual costs reaching 1,500 to 2,000 euros depending on the chosen coverage.

Medium-sized cities

Medium-sized cities like Rennes, Clermont-Ferrand, and Angers offer a more affordable alternative while maintaining a good quality of life.

1. Housing: The average rent for a three-room apartment in a medium-sized city ranges between 800 and 1,200 euros per month, offering substantial savings compared to larger cities.
2. Transport: Transport costs are also reduced, with a monthly public transportation subscription costing around 40 to 50 euros.
3. Food: Food prices are more moderate, with a meal in a mid-range restaurant costing between 12 and 20 euros.
4. Insurance: Insurance costs in medium-sized cities are comparable to those in large cities, but savings can be made on car insurance due to a lower risk of claims.

Prioritization of Expense Categories in France

For a healthcare professional setting up in France, it is crucial to understand the prioritization of expense categories:

1. Housing: Typically represents the largest expense, with significant variations between major cities and medium-sized towns.
2. Food: Represents the second largest expense category. Supermarkets and local markets offer a range of products at various prices.
3. Transport: Includes public and private transport costs. In large cities, public transportation is often preferred, while in medium-sized and rural towns, cars are more commonly used.
4. Insurance: Includes health, home, and car insurance. It is important to compare offers thoroughly to get the best value for money.
5. Public services: Includes service fees such as electricity, gas, and water. These costs can vary depending on the region and type of housing.
6. Leisure and outings: Expenses for leisure activities and outings can also make up a significant portion of the budget, especially in large cities where there are more options.

Conclusion

In 2026, the cost of living in France for healthcare professionals remains competitive compared to other Western European countries. Major cities, though more expensive, offer numerous professional opportunities and easy access to infrastructure. Medium-sized cities, on the other hand, present an attractive balance between cost of living and quality of life. Understanding the hierarchy of expenses helps better manage one’s budget and make informed choices regarding where to settle. Euromotion Medical is here to assist healthcare professionals in their mobility projects, providing them with precise information and helping them find the region that best meets their needs.