Planning to study in France? How much will you need for rent, food, and daily expenses? So, what is the cost of living in France?
France welcomes over 400,000 international students every year. On average, international students spend €800–€1,400 (₹72K–₹1.26L) per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. Paris is on the higher end, while cities like Toulouse, Lille, and Nantes offer affordable options. With smart planning, you can enjoy student life without overspending.
Rent is usually the biggest expense, but there are ways to save. Shared apartments, student housing, and CAF housing benefits can cut costs. Cooking at home, using student discounts, and choosing public transport can help you save €200–€500 every month.
This guide covers everything you need to budget wisely—housing, food, transport, student discounts, and part-time job options.
France attracts over 12,500 Indian students every year, and the numbers keep growing. The French government aims to welcome 20,000 Indian students by 2025 with more scholarships and work opportunities. Most Indian students choose Engineering, Business, Hospitality, Fashion, or Social Sciences. Top universities like HEC Paris, ESSEC, INSEAD, and Université PSL offer globally recognized degrees and strong career prospects.
Living costs depend on your city, accommodation, and lifestyle. Expect to spend €10,000–€18,000 (₹9L–₹16L) per year, excluding tuition fees. Paris is the most expensive, while Lyon, Toulouse, and Lille are 30–40% cheaper.
Annual Cost of Living in France (2025)
Expense Category
Annual Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
€5,400–€9,000 (₹4.8L–₹8L)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
€1,200–€2,000 (₹1.1L–₹1.8L)
Groceries
€2,640–€4,560 (₹2.3L–₹4L)
Eating Out (Occasionally)
€1,200–€3,000 (₹1.1L–₹2.7L)
Public Transport (Student Pass)
€600–€1,000 (₹54K–₹90K)
Health Insurance (Mandatory for Students)
€300–€600 (₹27K–₹54K)
Entertainment & Miscellaneous
€1,000–€2,500 (₹90K–₹2.2L)
Total Estimated Cost (Annual)
€10,000–€18,000 (₹9L–₹16L)
Fact: France ranks third in Europe in terms of affordability among international students, ahead of the UK and Germany.
Monthly Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
Expect to spend €800–€1,400 (₹72K–₹1.26L) per month on rent, food, transport, and daily expenses.
Expense Category
Monthly Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
€450–€750 (₹40K–₹67K)
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)
€100–€170 (₹9K–₹15K)
Groceries
€220–€380 (₹20K–₹34K)
Eating Out (Occasionally)
€100–€250 (₹9K–₹22K)
Public Transport
€50–€80 (₹4.5K–₹7K)
Health Insurance
€25–€50 (₹2.2K–₹4.5K per month)
Entertainment & Miscellaneous
€80–€200 (₹7K–₹18K)
Total Estimated Cost (Monthly)
€800–€1,400 (₹72K–₹1.26L)
Best Budget-Friendly Cities: Lyon, Lille, and Toulouse cost 30–40% less than Paris.
Ways to Save Money:
Apply for CAF Housing Allowance—get €100–€300 per month as rent subsidy.
Use student discount cards for transport, food, and entertainment.
Rent outside city centers to save €200–€400 per month.
Cost of Living in France: On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Accommodation
Worried about accommodation options? Housing is the biggest expense for students. Over 60% of international students live off-campus, but CROUS dorms offer budget-friendly options.
Annual Accommodation Costs for Students
Accommodation Type
Annual Rent (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Pros
Cons
On-Campus Housing (CROUS Dorms)
€1,800–€7,200 (₹1.6L–₹6.4L)
Cheapest, close to campus
High demand, limited availability
Shared Apartment (Off-Campus)
€4,800–€9,000 (₹4.3L–₹8L)
More independence, bigger space
Requires deposit & setup costs
Private Studio (1BHK)
€8,400–€14,400 (₹7.5L–₹12.8L)
Privacy, fully furnished
Expensive, utility bills extra
Homestay (Meals Included)
€6,000–€10,800 (₹5.4L–₹9.6L)
Meals included, cultural experience
Less independence
Tip: Apply early for CROUS housing—rent starts at €150/month in smaller cities and goes up to €600/month in Paris.
Food is a major expense for students in France. Groceries are affordable if you shop smart and cook at home, but dining out regularly can quickly increase your budget. Grocery prices have risen by 6% in 2025, making meal planning even more important for students.
Cooking at home saves money—students who cook instead of eating out can cut monthly expenses by €100–€250 (₹9K–₹22K). Indian students in France often spend more on lentils, rice, and spices, which are available at specialized grocery stores but at higher prices.
Monthly Food & Grocery Costs for Students
Expense
Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Groceries (Monthly, Cooking at Home)
€200–€350 (₹18K–₹31K)
Budget Meal (Street Food, Fast Food)
€8–€12 (₹720–₹1,080) per meal
Mid-Range Restaurant Meal
€15–€30 (₹1,350–₹2,700) per meal
Fine Dining (Three-Course Meal for Two)
€50–€100 (₹4.5K–₹9K)
Fact: Paris has the highest grocery prices in France, while cities like Lille and Toulouse have lower costs for fresh produce and essentials.
Where to Buy Affordable Groceries in France?
Store Type
Examples
What to Expect
Discount Supermarkets
Lidl, Aldi, E.Leclerc
Cheapest groceries, good for students
Mid-Range Supermarkets
Carrefour, Auchan, Intermarché
Good quality, reasonable prices
Indian & Asian Grocery Stores
Velan (Paris), Epicerie Indienne
Rice, dal, masalas—higher prices than local stores
Traditional Markets
Local farmer’s markets
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats at lower prices
Money-Saving Tips: Buy store-brand products instead of big brands to save 20–30%. Shop at discount supermarkets like Lidl and Aldi for budget-friendly groceries. Visit Indian stores once a month for essentials, but compare prices with Carrefour or Auchan. Use meal prep and bulk cooking to reduce food waste and save €50–€100 per month.
Transportation Costs in France: Public vs. Private Transport
France has one of the best public transport systems in Europe. Students rely on metros, trams, and buses to get around, while only a few own cars because of high fuel and insurance costs. Public transport passes help students save money, especially in big cities like Paris and Lyon.
A monthly student transport pass costs €30–€80 (₹2.7K–₹7K), depending on the city. Using public transport instead of taxis can save students €200–€400 per month.
Monthly Transport Costs for Students
Transport Option
Monthly Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
What’s Covered?
Public Transport (Bus, Tram, Metro Pass)
€30–€80 (₹2.7K–₹7K)
Unlimited travel within the city
Taxi Ride (5 km)
€10–€20 (₹900–₹1,800)
One-way trip
Car Rental (Long-Term Lease)
€400–€700 (₹36K–₹63K)
Includes insurance & maintenance
Fuel (Per Liter)
€1.80 (₹160–₹170)
Petrol or diesel costs
Car Insurance (Annual)
€800–€2,000 (₹72K–₹1.8L)
Required for private car owners
Fact: Paris has the most expensive transport passes (€75 per month), while cities like Toulouse and Nantes offer cheaper options (€30–€50).
Public Transport vs. Private Transport: What’s Cheaper for Students?
Factor
Public Transport
Private Car
Monthly Cost
€30–€80 (₹2.7K–₹7K)
€400–€700 (₹36K–₹63K)
Convenience
Available everywhere
Parking is expensive
Flexibility
Fixed routes & schedules
Travel anywhere anytime
Long-Distance Travel
High-speed trains (TGV) are fast & cheap
Fuel & tolls add costs
Best Ways to Save on Transport: Buy a monthly student pass for unlimited bus, tram, and metro rides. Use carpooling apps like BlaBlaCar for cheaper long-distance travel. Take TGV trains instead of domestic flights to save money and time.
Most students prefer public transport because it’s affordable, reliable, and easy to use. Owning a car in France costs at least €400 more per month, making it impractical for students.
Cost of Living in France: Healthcare & Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in France. The French healthcare system is one of the best in the world, offering high-quality medical care at affordable prices. Students must enroll in France’s public health insurance (Sécurité Sociale Étudiante), which covers most medical expenses.
How Much Does Health Insurance Cost?
Insurance Type
Annual Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Coverage
Public Student Health Insurance (Sécurité Sociale)
Free
Doctor visits, hospital stays, medical tests
Private Health Insurance (Top-Up Coverage - Mutuelle)
€100–€600 (₹9K–₹54K)
Extra reimbursement for dental, vision, and specialized care
Emergency Doctor Visit (Without Insurance)
€25–€50 (₹2,200–₹4,500)
Basic consultation
Specialist Visit (Dermatologist, ENT, etc.)
€40–€80 (₹3,600–₹7,200)
Consultation + basic treatment
Hospital Stay (Per Night, Without Insurance)
€600–€1,200 (₹54K–₹1.08L)
Includes treatment & accommodation
Fact: The French government pays up to 70% of medical expenses under public health insurance.
How to Register for Health Insurance?
Enroll in public health insurance (Sécurité Sociale Étudiante) via the French health system website.
Get a Carte Vitale (Health Card) to access reimbursed medical care at hospitals and clinics.
Consider private insurance (Mutuelle) for extra coverage on dental, vision, and alternative treatments.
Tip: Public insurance covers most healthcare costs, but a private top-up plan (Mutuelle) helps cover extra expenses like dental and eye care.
Cost of Living in France: Tuition Fees & Other Academic Expenses
France offers affordable tuition fees, especially at public universities. Indian students pay lower tuition than in the US or UK, making France a budget-friendly study destination. Tuition fees depend on the university type, program, and degree level.
How Much Do Tuition Fees Cost?
University Type
Annual Tuition Fees (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Examples
Public Universities (Bachelor’s Degree)
€2,770 (₹2.5L)
Sorbonne, Université Paris-Saclay
Public Universities (Master’s Degree)
€3,770 (₹3.4L)
Université de Lyon, Aix-Marseille University
Engineering Schools (Grandes Écoles - Public)
€600–€4,500 (₹54K–₹4L)
École Centrale, INSA Lyon
Private Universities & Business Schools
€8,000–€30,000 (₹7.2L–₹27L)
HEC Paris, ESSEC, INSEAD
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Free (Only registration fees apply)
Research-based programs
Fact: Public universities charge the same tuition fees for all international students, but business and engineering schools set their own fees.
Additional Academic Expenses for Students
Apart from tuition, students must budget for course materials, exams, and other academic fees.
Tip: Many universities offer free online textbooks and second-hand book sales, helping students save €100–€300 per year.
Part-Time Work for Indian Students: Earning While Studying in France
Can you work part-time while studying? Absolutely! The French government allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays. That means you can earn up to €930 (₹84K) per month while balancing studies.
Part-time jobs help cover rent, groceries, and transport. Many students take up jobs in cafés, supermarkets, and tutoring, while some explore freelancing opportunities. But where do you find these jobs? How much do they pay? Let’s break it down.
How Much Can Indian Students Earn in France?
Job Type
Hourly Pay (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Max Monthly Earnings (20 hrs/week)
On-Campus Jobs (Library, Cafeteria, Admin)
€11.65 (₹1,050)
€930 (₹84K)
Retail Jobs (Supermarkets, Clothing Stores)
€12–€15 (₹1,080–₹1,350)
€960–€1,200 (₹86K–₹1.1L)
Restaurant & Café Work
€12–€14 (₹1,080–₹1,260)
€960–€1,120 (₹86K–₹1L)
English Tutoring (Private & Online)
€15–€30 (₹1,350–₹2,700)
€1,200–€2,400 (₹1.1L–₹2.1L)
Freelancing (Content Writing, Graphic Design, IT)
Varies
No fixed limit
Best-paying jobs? English tutoring, freelancing, and office assistant roles pay more than retail and restaurant jobs.
Full-time work allowed during summer and holidays.
Internships with stipends are separate from this limit.
Restricted jobs: No work in nightclubs, gambling centers, or illegal employment.
Fact: Over 50% of international students in France work part-time, using it to cover daily expenses.
Hidden Cost of Living in France
Rent, groceries, and transport aren’t the only expenses students face in France. Many students forget about security deposits, visa renewals, and unexpected fees. These hidden costs can add €1,500–€3,000 (₹1.35L–₹2.7L) per year to your budget.
Skipping these in your financial plan can lead to last-minute stress. What are these extra costs, and how can you prepare?
Unexpected Cost of Living in France Indian Students Should Budget For
Expense
Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Why It Matters?
Student Visa Renewal (VLS-TS, Every Year)
€99 (₹8,900)
Mandatory for staying in France
Security Deposit for Apartments
€500–€1,500 (₹45K–₹1.35L)
Needed for off-campus housing
Electricity, Water, Internet Setup
€150–€300 (₹13K–₹27K)
One-time installation charges
Textbooks & Course Materials (Per Semester)
€100–€300 (₹9K–₹27K)
Engineering & Business programs have higher costs
Flight Tickets (India–France Round Trip)
€600–€1,200 (₹54K–₹1.08L)
Prices depend on season and booking time
Unexpected Medical Expenses
€50–€200 (₹4.5K–₹18K)
Non-covered treatments like dental & eye care
Public Transport Card Deposit
€5–€30 (₹450–₹2.7K)
Refundable but must be paid upfront
Tip: Some universities offer free access to textbooks online, helping students save €100–€300 per year.
How to Avoid Hidden Cost of Living in France?
Apply for CAF Housing Allowance – Get €100–€300 per month as a rent subsidy. Rent fully furnished apartments – Saves €500–€1,000 on furniture setup. Use second-hand books and digital resources – Saves €200+ per year. Book flight tickets early – Prices are lower 3–6 months before departure.
Planning to study in France? Budget wisely for hidden costs, and use part-time work to manage expenses.
Most Affordable French Cities for Indian Students
Paris is costly, but many student-friendly cities offer high-quality education at lower living costs. Rent, transport, and food can be 30–40% cheaper outside the capital.
Choosing the right city can save students up to €500 (₹45K) per month on rent and daily expenses. Here’s a look at the most budget-friendly cities.
Cheapest Cities for Indian Students in France
City
Monthly Living Cost (EUR + INR Equivalent)
Why It's Affordable
Toulouse
€900–€1,300 (₹81K–₹1.2L)
Low rent, strong student community
Lille
€850–€1,200 (₹76K–₹1.1L)
Budget housing, great public transport
Nantes
€850–€1,200 (₹76K–₹1.1L)
Lower food & transport costs
Lyon
€950–€1,400 (₹85K–₹1.26L)
Cheaper than Paris, but well-connected
Montpellier
€900–€1,250 (₹81K–₹1.13L)
Affordable accommodation & transport
Fact: Toulouse and Lille offer the best balance of affordability and student life.
Cost of Living in France Breakdown: Affordable vs. Expensive Cities
Expense
Paris (Expensive City)
Toulouse/Lille (Affordable Cities)
Rent (Shared Apartment)
€700–€1,200 (₹63K–₹1.08L)
€400–€750 (₹36K–₹67K)
Public Transport Pass
€75 (₹6,750)
€30–€50 (₹2,700–₹4,500)
Groceries
€250–€400 (₹22K–₹36K)
€200–€350 (₹18K–₹31K)
Eating Out (Budget Meal)
€12–€18 (₹1,080–₹1,620)
€8–€12 (₹720–₹1,080)
Best Budget City? Toulouse has the lowest rent and strong job opportunities in aerospace and tech industries.
How Indian Students Can Save Money While Studying in France
France is affordable if you know where to cut costs. Students who plan well and use discounts can save €200–€500 (₹18K–₹45K) per month on rent, food, and transport.
Best Ways to Save Money as an Indian Student in France
Category
How to Save Money?
Accommodation
Apply for CROUS housing early to get dorms at €150–€600 per month.
Food & Groceries
Shop at Lidl, Aldi, and E.Leclerc for cheap groceries. Buy in bulk.
Transport
Get a student monthly pass (€30–€80) instead of paying per ride.
Health Insurance
Use France’s free student health insurance instead of private plans.
Books & Study Materials
Borrow from university libraries or buy second-hand books.
Public Transport
Walk or use bikes instead of taxis. Many cities have free student transport days.
CAF Housing Allowance: Apply for CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) to get €100–€300 per month off your rent.
How Much Can Students Save?
Expense
Without Budgeting
With Smart Planning
Savings Per Month
Rent (1BHK in Paris)
€1,200 (₹1.08L)
€600 (₹54K, in CROUS housing)
€600 (₹54K)
Groceries & Eating Out
€500 (₹45K)
€300 (₹27K, meal prepping + markets)
€200 (₹18K)
Transport
€100 (₹9K, taxis + per ride tickets)
€50 (₹4.5K, student pass)
€50 (₹4.5K)
Entertainment & Shopping
€200 (₹18K)
€100 (₹9K, student discounts & free events)
€100 (₹9K)
Total Monthly Savings
€2,000 (₹1.8L)
€1,050 (₹94K)
€950 (₹86K per month)
Biggest Savings? Rent, food, and transport. A student in Toulouse or Lille saves €6,000 (₹5.4L) per year compared to Paris.
upGrad Abroad’s Assistance for Indian Students Studying in France
Studying in France is a great opportunity, and getting there should be simple. upGrad Abroad helps Indian students every step of the way—from choosing the right university to securing scholarships, visas, and part-time jobs.
Find the right university based on your goals. Get visa and SOP support for a hassle-free process. Explore scholarships to make studying more affordable. Find part-time jobs to manage living expenses.
Starting your journey to France? upGrad Abroad makes it easy—get expert guidance today!
FAQs on Cost of Living in France for Indian Students
How do living costs in France compare to other European countries for Indian students?
France is more affordable than the UK and Switzerland but costlier than Germany or Spain. Students in Paris need around €1,200–€1,800 (₹1L–₹1.5L) per month, while smaller cities require €800–€1,200 (₹70K–₹1L).
What is the minimum amount required in a bank account to apply for a French student visa?
Indian students must show at least €615 per month (₹53K) for one year, totaling €7,380 (₹6.3L) in a bank account to meet visa requirements.
How can Indian students reduce heating costs in winter while staying in France?
Using shared accommodations, adjusting the thermostat to 19°C, and using energy-saving heaters can lower heating costs. Many student residences include heating in rent.
Are there any specific scholarships for Indian students to cover living expenses in France?
Yes, Charpak Scholarship (by Campus France), Eiffel Excellence Scholarship, and Raman Charpak Fellowship help Indian students cover tuition and living costs.
How much does it cost to apply for a residence permit (Carte de Séjour) in France?
The Carte de Séjour costs €50–€99 (₹4.3K–₹8.5K). Students must apply within three months of arrival for legal residency.
What are the best mobile plans for Indian students in France?
Affordable mobile plans include Free Mobile (€9.99/month), SFR (€12/month), and Bouygues Telecom (€15/month), offering unlimited calls and 50GB+ data.
Are part-time jobs easily available for Indian students, or is competition high?
Jobs in cafes, retail, and tutoring are available but competitive. Speaking basic French improves chances. Students can work 964 hours per year (20 hours/week).
How does the French banking system work for students, and which banks offer zero-fee accounts?
Most banks require a proof of residence and student ID to open an account. BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and LCL offer zero-fee student accounts.
What’s the cost of social and recreational activities like gym memberships or cultural events in France?
Gym memberships cost €20–€50 (₹1.7K–₹4.3K) per month. Museums and theaters offer discounted or free entry for students under 26.
Do students need to pay for public healthcare, or is everything covered under student insurance?
Students pay €211 (₹18K) per year for French student health insurance, covering most medical expenses. Private insurance is optional but recommended.
What are the cheapest ways for Indian students to travel between cities in France?
Budget-friendly options include Ouigo (low-cost TGV trains), FlixBus (€10–€30 per trip), and student discounts on SNCF rail passes.
Is it necessary to take private health insurance apart from the government-provided student insurance?
Private insurance is not mandatory but helps cover dental, vision, and specialist treatments, which public insurance does not fully reimburse.
How much do Indian grocery items cost in France compared to local products?
Indian groceries are 20–50% more expensive. A 5kg rice bag costs €10–€15 (₹860–₹1.3K), while spices and lentils cost €3–€6 (₹260–₹520) per pack.
What are the most affordable areas in Paris for Indian students to rent an apartment?
Saint-Denis, Clichy, and Montreuil offer rent from €400–€800 (₹35K–₹70K) per month, while central Paris can exceed €1,200 per month.
Are there any student co-living spaces or hostels specifically for Indian students in France?
Yes, Cité Universitaire (CIUP) in Paris, private student residences (Les Estudines, Nexity), and Indian student networks help find affordable housing.
Honey Gupta is a leading consultant with over 10 years of experience in helping students navigate the complexities of studying overseas, with a specialized focus on Ireland. Honey brings a wealth of academic knowledge and practical insights into international education and study abroad programs, particularly in addressing the unique opportunities and challenges of studying in Ireland.
CGPA to GPA Calculator
EXPENSE CALCULATOR
Ielts band calculator
Education Loan Calculator
University partner
ACCOMMODATION
experience-center
)
