Living Costs for Students in a Parisian Suburb

Living as a student in a Parisian suburb can offer a more affordable alternative to living in the heart of Paris, while still allowing easy access to all that the city has to offer. However, it’s important to budget carefully to manage the living costs. In this article, we'll break down the typical expenses a student can expect when living in a Parisian suburb.

Rent

Rent is often the biggest expense for students. While living in the Paris city center is expensive, opting for a Parisian suburb can help reduce rent significantly. The price of rent will depend on the specific suburb and the size of the accommodation. On average, students can expect to pay:

• Shared apartments: Rent for a room in a shared apartment or flat in a suburb typically ranges from €400 to €700 per month. Prices can be lower in further suburbs.
• Studio or one-bedroom apartment: Renting a studio or small one-bedroom apartment in a Parisian suburb can cost between €600 and €1,000 per month, depending on proximity to transport and the overall area.

In some more affordable suburbs like Montreuil, Ivry-sur-Seine, or Saint-Denis, rent may be at the lower end of the spectrum, while in areas closer to central Paris or well-connected suburbs like Boulogne-Billancourt or Vincennes, prices can be higher.

Transportation

The public transport system in Paris and its suburbs is extensive and affordable for students. The cost of transportation largely depends on the student’s travel needs and the location of their accommodation relative to their university. Typical costs include:

• Navigo card: This card offers unlimited travel on public transport (Métro, buses, RER, etc.) within the Île-de-France region. A monthly Navigo card for students costs around €34.50 if traveling within central Paris or a broader range of suburbs.
• Individual tickets: A single metro/bus ticket within the Paris region costs about €1.90.
• RER fares: For longer journeys on the RER (regional express network), the fare varies, typically between €2 to €5 one way depending on the distance.

Many students opt for the monthly Navigo card for convenience and savings, especially if they need to travel regularly.

Food

Food is another essential part of a student’s budget. The cost of food will depend on whether students cook at home or eat out. On average:

• Groceries: A typical grocery bill for a student can range from €150 to €250 per month. Shopping at local markets, discount supermarkets, or large stores like Carrefour or Lidl can help keep costs down.
• Eating out: If you eat out frequently, expect to spend around €10 to €15 for a meal at a casual restaurant or café. Students often take advantage of the many affordable “menu du jour” (daily specials) or university cafeterias that offer meals for around €3 to €6.

Utilities and Internet

For those living in shared accommodation or an apartment, students will need to pay for utilities, including electricity, heating, and water. The average cost for utilities is:

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): Approximately €50 to €100 per month, depending on the size of the apartment and usage.
• Internet: Internet costs around €20 to €40 per month, depending on the provider and plan chosen.

Some rental agreements may include utilities and internet in the rent, so it's essential to check the details before signing a lease.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Other costs that should be considered when budgeting for life in a Parisian suburb include:

• Mobile phone: A student mobile phone plan can cost between €10 to €30 per month depending on the data and call package.
• Leisure and social activities: Students often engage in cultural activities, student events, or nightlife. On average, expect to spend €50 to €100 per month on entertainment, though this can vary depending on lifestyle.

Health Insurance

All students in France, both domestic and international, are required to have health insurance. As an EU student, you may be covered by your home country’s health insurance. However, international students must register with the French social security system, which costs around €215 per year for those under 28.

Estimated Total Monthly Cost

When adding everything up, the average living cost for a student in a Parisian suburb can range from €800 to €1,500 per month, depending on the suburb, accommodation type, and lifestyle choices. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

• Rent: €400 – €1,000
• Transport: €34.50 (Navigo card)
• Food: €150 – €250
• Utilities & Internet: €70 – €140
• Miscellaneous: €50 – €100
• Health Insurance: €18 per month (for international students)

Conclusion

Living in a Parisian suburb can be a more affordable alternative for students compared to staying in the heart of Paris. By budgeting carefully and taking advantage of student discounts, affordable housing, and public transport, students can manage their expenses effectively while enjoying all that Paris and its surrounding areas have to offer. The key is finding the right balance between convenience, cost, and lifestyle preferences.