Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also means managing your money carefully.
Here’s an overview of the main living expenses you’ll need to plan for as a student in France.

Rent will take up the largest part of your budget, usually paid monthly. The price depends on several factors: the type of accommodation, its size, and especially the city you live in.

As a reference, here are average monthly rents in 2025 for a private studio or small apartment:

💡 Tip: Shared flats (“colocations”) are on average 30% cheaper than studios, and a room in a homestay can be 40% cheaper.
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Keep in mind that utilities and service charges (heating, electricity, internet) can add to your monthly rent, especially if your accommodation isn’t well insulated.

Food costs can add up quickly, and eating out too often can drain your savings fast. Cooking at home is still the best way to save money.

You don’t need to be a chef to eat well. With a few basic tools (a pan, a pot, a strainer) and some essentials (vegetables, pasta, rice, meat, or legumes), you can prepare healthy and affordable meals.

💡 Budget tip: Cook in batches and freeze your meals or store them in Tupperware to save both time and money.

And don’t forget about CROUS canteens, where you can enjoy a full, balanced meal for just €3.30. It’s one of the most affordable and convenient dining options for students.

Most students rely on public transportation every day. Depending on the city, this could mean metro, tram, or bus — and increasingly, electric scooters or bikes.

Students benefit from discounted fares for unlimited travel passes. Here’s an overview of 2025 annual student transport pass prices:

👉 Make sure to compare different offers in your city. Some passes include all modes of transport, but you might only need one or two.

Budgeting doesn’t mean missing out! Set aside some money for activities such as:

Balancing fun and finances is key to a good student experience.

The expenses mentioned above are repeated periodically: every month for rent, every day for food, etc. However, to manage your student budget, you must also take into account expenses taking place before the beginning of your rental, like :

1. Check your bank account regularly
Once you’ve opened a French bank account, review your balance often to avoid overdrafts and unnecessary fees.

2. List your recurring payments
Include rent, subscriptions, and transport passes to see how much money you have left for food and leisure.

3. Look for discounts and deals
Use student offers, restaurant promotions, and second-hand markets to save on daily expenses.

4. Save a little each month
Even €20–€30 can help you handle unexpected costs later.

5. Apply for housing allowances
Don’t forget to apply for CAF (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales) support as soon as possible.

6. Find a small income source
Private tutoring, babysitting, or part-time student jobs can provide valuable extra income.

Managing your student budget in France takes planning, but with the right tools and a bit of organization, you can enjoy your new city without financial stress.