In 2026, France continues to attract many European doctors due to its competitive salaries, professional stability, and high demand for medical personnel. But before settling in, it is essential to anticipate the cost of living. Here is a clear guide to understand the main expenses that a European doctor should expect.
1. Housing: the biggest expense
Housing represents the largest part of the monthly budget. Prices vary greatly depending on the regions:
- 🏙️ Major cities (Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux): higher rents.
- 🌿 Rural and peri-urban areas: much lower costs.
- 🏥 Under-served regions: attractive offers + immediate patient base.
To prepare your move, consult the Euromotion housing guide.
2. Transport: car, fuel, and public transport
In France, doctors often work in rural or semi-rural areas, making a car indispensable. To plan for:
- 🚗 fuel and tolls,
- 🅿️ parking,
- 🛠️ annual maintenance.
In major cities, public transport remains an economical option (metro, tram, bus).
3. Insurance, health, and professional obligations
In France, doctors need to plan for several mandatory or recommended insurances:
- ✔ Professional Civil Liability (RCP) insurance
- ✔ Home insurance
- ✔ Car insurance
- ✔ Complementary health insurance
To practice legally, European doctors must follow specific administrative procedures, including:
- 📌 Practice authorization by DREETS: https://dreets.gouv.fr
- 📌 Registration with the National Council of the Order of Doctors (CNOM): Order of Doctors
- 📌 For dentists if applicable: Order of Dental Surgeons
These procedures do not directly impact the cost of living but are part of the mandatory installation expenses.
4. Cost of food and daily life
Prices in France are comparable to European standards, with variations depending on the regions. Doctors settling in rural areas often benefit from a lower cost of living.
- 🛒 moderately priced monthly food basket,
- 🍽️ more expensive restaurants in major cities,
- 🏬 everyday purchases close to the EU average.
5. Learning medical French: a key investment
To practice effectively, proficiency in medical French is essential. European doctors should plan for time (and sometimes a budget) for specialized courses.
Useful resource: schools & courses in medical French
6. Taxation: anticipate your net income
French taxation includes income tax and social contributions (salaried or self-employed). The net income depends on the region, type of practice, and activity volume.
Euromotion simulators allow you to know your future net salary: salary simulators.
7. Global budget for a European doctor in 2026
In summary, the cost of living mainly depends on the region. European doctors generally find a good balance between income, quality of life, and expenses, especially outside major urban centers.
- ✔ Housing: main expense item
- ✔ Transport: variable depending on practice
- ✔ Insurance and taxation: mandatory but predictable
- ✔ Medical French: essential for integration
🚀 Considering moving to France in 2026?
Euromotion Medical assists you with your professional, administrative, and logistical installation:
- 🔎 Explore the medical job offers
- 📘 Access all our practical guides
- 💼 Find your job through Mediirect
- 📩 Contact us: nicetomeetyou@euromotion.care
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