France is a country sought after by many for its rich cultural diversity, variety of cuisines, and spectacular streets that reflect fashion and exotic trends. This makes moving to France a dream for many expats. However, the idea of relocating might be terrifying to some because of the high cost of living and the luxury spending demanded by the country.
This is because of the preconceived notion of equating Paris with France. Indeed France has many unexplored cities such as Nantes that offer quality life with a better cost of living. Moreover, it is a matter of planning and budgeting to be able to live within budget in any corner of the world.
While a professional international movers France can give guidance on effective planning in France here is a guide that will help with self-preparation.
Planning and Budgeting: Tips to Navigate the Cost of Living in France
- Understanding the Cost of Living in France
Groceries and food expenses, utility costs, health, education, and accommodation are the parameters that affect the cost of living. Each of these components varies from city to city. So choosing the right city to relocate can save a considerable sum of money.
The grocery expense for single persons can range from 250 to 350 Euro per month in the capital city while it can be reduced to 200 to 300 Euro per month for cities such as Toulouse. In the case of a family of four, this figure rises to 600 to 800 Euro per month and 500 to 700 Euro per month. Likewise, utility bills can vary from 70 to 120 Euro for singles and 120 to 250 Euro for a family of four people.
Other basic expenses can also vary between the capital city and other suburban areas. Consult any relocation companies in France for a detailed and bifurcated list of expenses. By choosing cities with a lesser cost of living from this list, every 10 Euro saved on each utility can add up to a considerable sum of money. Since there are affordable TGVs (A term for high-speed train) with a cost of around 30 EUR per trip commuting between these cities to explore France will not be a problem.
- Creating a Budget Plan
There are fixed expenses and variable expenses. Rent or mortgages belong to the former while the luxury expenses belong to the latter. In the case of fixed expenses once a decision is made further accommodations may not be possible. So compare house rents, utility providers, and cost of living of areas and make an informed choice on these expenses. International moving companies France can also be of assistance if you wish to plan ahead of relocation.
In the case of variable expenses, it requires prioritizing and proper planning from time to time.
- Managing Healthcare Expenses
International movers in France in most prep talks mention the benefits of the universal healthcare system of France. It is available for its citizens, residents, and legal immigrants without discrimination. As it is majorly funded through a compulsory insurance policy and tax revenue, managing healthcare expenses in France is a cakewalk that carves only a small portion of earnings. Insurance costs for single individuals can be managed with about 70 EUR.
- Bottom Line: A better understanding of the cost of living in various cities in France, informed choices on fixed expenses, prioritizing the luxury expenses, and leveraging the benefits offered by health care and social security infrastructure are some tips that will help an immigrant for a comfortable living in France.
Moreover, additional expenses that come from bringing family and pets are also a factor that needs to be considered while budgeting for a smooth transition to life in France.
Pet insurance is mandatory in France. Have you heard about this before?
These expenses can turn out to be surprising factors that catch you off guard. This is why you need assistance from reputed international movers in France. With our experienced team, we at Helpxpat can assist you in making this relocation of yours into France effortless. Reach out to us to get a quote for the best relocation services.