Living in Paris: What You Need to Know Before You Move
If you’ve ever dreamed of sipping coffee on a sidewalk café while the Eiffel Tower glitters in the distance, you’re not alone. But the romance of Paris can hide a few practical hurdles. Below is a quick guide that covers the basics—housing, transport, food, and daily habits—so you can start your Paris adventure with confidence.
Finding a Place to Call Home
Paris apartments are famous for their charm and, unfortunately, for their size. Most rentals are under 30 m², especially in central arrondissements. Start by checking sites like SeLoger or PAP; they list both short‑term and long‑term options. If you’re open to a roommate situation, shared flats (colocation) can cut costs dramatically and give you instant local friends.
Budget is crucial. Expect to pay 1,200 €–1,800 € per month for a one‑bedroom in the city centre, and around 800 €–1,200 € outside the centre. Remember to add the charges (utilities, building fees) which can be another 100 €–200 €.
Getting Around the City
Paris’ metro is fast, cheap, and covers almost every corner. A single ticket costs 1.90 €, but a Navigo monthly pass (carnet) drops the price to about 75 € for unlimited rides. Buses and the RER regional trains are also part of the same ticket system, so you won’t need separate passes.
For short trips, consider Vélib’, the city’s bike‑share program. With a simple registration, you can pick up a bike at any station and drop it off wherever you like. It’s a great way to see the city up close while staying active.
Driving in Paris is usually a hassle—traffic jams, expensive parking, and strict emissions zones make it less appealing unless you truly need a car.
Now that you’ve sorted travel, let’s talk food.
Paris is a food lover’s playground, but it’s easy to fall into the tourist trap of overpriced cafés. Look for boulangeries on side streets; a fresh croissant there costs about 1 € and tastes far better than what you’ll find near the Louvre.
For a hearty meal, head to a bistrot in the 11th or 20th arrondissement. A classic plat du jour—often a meat or fish dish with a side salad—runs 12 €–15 €. Don’t forget the “café du jour” (daily coffee) culture: standing at the bar, chatting with locals, and watching the world go by.
If you’re cooking at home, supermarkets like Monoprix or Franprix have a good selection of fresh produce, cheese, and wine. A simple dinner of pasta, a bottle of cheap red, and a baguette can cost under 10 €.
Beyond the basics, immerse yourself in everyday Parisian life. Learn a few French phrases—“Bonjour,” “Merci,” and “Où est…?” go a long way. Parisians appreciate the effort, even if your accent isn’t perfect.
Take advantage of free cultural events. Many museums, like the Musée d’Orsay, have free admission on the first Sunday of each month. Public parks such as the Jardin du Luxembourg are perfect for a weekend picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Finally, be patient with the bureaucracy. Registering at your local Mairie (town hall) for a residence permit, opening a bank account, and getting health insurance can take time. Keep copies of all documents and be ready to ask for clarification in French if needed.
Living in Paris isn’t just about iconic landmarks; it’s about the small daily moments—walking along the Seine, choosing the perfect cheese at a market, and chatting with neighbors on the balcony. With the right preparation, you’ll turn those moments into a fulfilling, authentic Parisian life.
