Contact us on WhatsApp: +33 6 95 73 52 90

A day in the life of a student in Paris: How much does it cost to live in Paris?

By Jean
Reading Time: 3 minutes
student expense in paris

Paris is known to have some of the highest living costs in the world, and the student expense in Paris might seem impossibly expensive. But it is actually totally possible to live in Paris while studying full-time – so long as you are prepared.

To get an understanding of the student expense in Paris, we asked one of our students, Allison, to give us some insight. Allison is from the United States and is studying at a French language school full-time. She agreed to share how much she spent in a day with us. Here is how much she spent in a day:

Brunch

Since she attends evening classes, early breakfast is skipped in favour of a hearty brunch. Here’s the cost breakdown for her typical brunch ingredients:

  • Bread: €1.50
  • Tomatoes: €1.99
  • Greens: €2.00
  • Carton of Eggs: €4.85
  • Avocados: €3.75

While these ingredients last a few days, the total cost is considered for the daily expense.

Total Brunch Cost: €14.09

student expense in paris

Coffee and Snack Before Classes

Around 12:30 PM, she enjoys a cup of coffee at home. Before heading to afternoon classes, she stops at the supermarket to get a quick snack:

  • Croissant: €1.30
  • Sparkling Water: €1.89

Total Snack Cost: €3.19

student expense in paris

Dinner

Dinner is often prepared at home, a more budget-friendly and satisfying option. Here’s what she typically spends on a pasta dinner:

  • Pasta: €2.55
  • Tomatoes (already purchased for brunch)
  • Pesto Sauce: €2.85
  • Zucchini: €2.40
  • Garlic: €3.99 (which lasts multiple meals)
  • Parmesan Cheese: €4.45

Given that garlic and parmesan cheese last longer, the daily cost for these ingredients is approximated.

Total Dinner Cost: €16.24

student expense in paris

Living in Paris Without Breaking the Bank

Living in Paris can be affordable with careful budgeting. Allison spent €33.52 as follows:

  • Brunch: €14.09
  • Afternoon: €3.19
  • Dinner: €16.24

Here are some tips based on Allison’s experience to manage the cost of living in Paris as a student:

  • Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home saves a lot compared to dining out. This significantly reduces the cost of living in Paris as a student.
  • Use Public Transport: Investing in a monthly Navigo pass for unlimited travel on public transport within Paris is cost-effective and convenient, helping to manage the overall cost of living in Paris as a student.

student expense in paris

Estimate Your Student Expense in Paris

Wondering how much does it cost to live and study in Paris? Use our cost of living calculator to find out! Get an estimate here: https://gogofrance.com/en/cost-of-living-in-france-calculator/

Use our cost of living calculator to estimate how much money you will need during your stay in France. Please note that these figures are estimates based on averages, and your actual cost of living will vary depending on your location in France, the school you attend, the duration of your studies, your accommodation, lifestyle, and spending habits.

Read more about the cost of living in Paris here: https://gogofrance.com/en/blog/cost-of-living-in-paris/

To see this day in the life of Allison, check our Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/gogo.france/

Share this article

Go! Go! France

Search articles

Popular posts

DO YOU WANT TO LIVE AND STUDY IN FRANCE?

We at Go! Go! France are all about turning your dreams of living and studying in France into reality!

Go! Go! France Blog

Related articles

Applying for a visa to live and study in France can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Go! Go! France comes in. Our team is here to simplify the process, making it easier and stress-free for you. Check your visa requirements Do you need a visa to live and study in France? It depends on your...
Studying in France requires careful financial planning and an understanding of various costs associated with living and studying in the country. Whether you plan to stay for a short-term or long-term period, this article will explain the financial requirements you need to meet. Do you need a visa to study in France It depends on...
Whether through language, cuisine, or tradition, French people have perfected the ways in which they express affection. In this guide, we’ll explore the various ways in which French people express love, allowing you to embrace the charm of romance in France. Verbal expressions of love Vocabulary to express love French English Example Mon amour My...
La Chandeleur, also known as Candlemas, is a traditional French holiday celebrated annually on February 2nd, exactly 40 days after Christmas. In this article, you’ll learn about the history of this day, its customs, and how the French celebrate it. Historical background La Chandeleur blends pagan and Christian traditions. Originally linked to the Roman festival...
The Carnival of Nice, celebrated annually, is a vibrant festival held over approximately 15 days in February or March. The carnival is renowned for its extravagant parades and thematic events that draw thousands of visitors to the French Riviera each year. Historical roots The Carnival of Nice, dating back to 1294, began as a local...

Contact us

Any questions? We are here to help