Top 15 Most Affordable Cities to Live in France

France offers expats a variety of benefits such as spectacular scenery, amazing culture, and delicious cuisine.

It is no surprise that the country continues to be one of the most popular destinations for those looking to find an affordable place to live in Europe!

From the southern city of Nîmes and its wonderful Roman monuments, to the hidden gem of Metz and its stunning Gothic architecture, or the lively Parisian suburb of Versailles, France is full of affordable and beautiful places to live.

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Whether you’re looking for a place to call home on the Mediterranean coast or would prefer to explore the historic sites of western France, there are plenty of affordable cities in France that offer great value for money and an unbeatable quality of life.

I’ve been lucky enough to live in this beautiful country since 2019, even while on an abysmal student budget!

In this article, we will discuss some of the top places in France that offer expats not only the best bang for their buck, but also a high quality of life.

From major cities to small towns and villages, here are my top choices for the 15 cheapest cities in France to live in:

TL;DR

• Most affordable place to live in France overall: Nîmes
• Best affordable place to live in France for expats: Montpellier
• Best affordable place to live in France for families: Grenoble
• Best affordable place to live in France by the sea: Marseille
• Cheapest city in France for students: Lille
• Best affordable place to live in France for English speakers: Le Havre

Where is the cheapest place to live in France?

Hands down, one of the cheapest places to live in France overall is Nîmes.

This city in the south of France is known for its beautiful Roman monuments, including the impressive Maison Carrée temple and the still-standing Amphitheatre de Nîmes.

The cost of living here is 13% below the national average and it’s estimated that expats could get by on just €1,050 per month.

Top 15 Most Affordable Cities in France to Live

Let’s dive into the top 15 most affordable cities in France to live!

There are many affordable cities in France, but here are the ones that stand out the most.

Note: This post is designed to be a guide for expats, families, and students who are looking to make the move to France. I’ll be focusing on overall affordability, and my estimates for the cost of living in each city are based off Numbeo.com.

Obviously, everyone has different spending habits, different expenses, and of course – different ideas of what’s expensive and what’s not.

So take this list as a loose guide, and do more research on the particular city that interests you.

1. Châteauroux

Châteauroux (pronounced “shat-oh-roo”) is a small town in the center of France, in the Val de Loire department. This charming town is located on the banks of the River Indre and has a population of around 45,000.

Its property prices make it one of the cheapest cities in France for expats to move to – you can find one-bedroom apartments in the city center for around €420 per month!

Average cost of living in Châteauroux

The cost of living here is very low: you can expect to spend around €1,200 per month here as a single person. This includes rent, groceries, and utilities.

Not bad when you compare it to the rest of France and Europe.

Châteauroux is perfect for those looking to enjoy the city life while keeping costs down. Though it’s not a top choice when it comes to the most exciting cities in France to live in, there are still a few things to do here to keep you busy.

The city has plenty of cultural attractions and activities to keep you entertained, and its proximity to other major cities in France makes it a great choice for commuters as well. Nature lovers will enjoy its proximity to the Loire Valley and horse riding enthusiasts can explore the nearby forests.

There’s also a vibrant cultural scene with several local festivals throughout the year.

Related read: The 15 Worst Things About Living in France

2. Lannion

Lannion is a small town located on the northwest coast of France. It’s situated in the Brittany region of France (aka Bretagne for my French speakers) and is about 30 miles from the Belgian border.

This medieval town was once a historic part of French history and is now a popular choice for those seeking an affordable place to live in western France. It’s an incredibly charming place and its proximity to the sea makes it a great option for nature lovers.

You’ll find stunning views of the sea and easy access to nearby beaches in this little town!

Average cost of living in Lannion

Average monthly living costs come out at around €1,000 per month – including rent, groceries, and utilities. The cost of living here is much lower than the national average, with one-bedroom apartments costing around €320 per month.

Lannion is rapidly becoming a popular choice for young professionals, as the job market here is growing and the cost of living is relatively low. It’s also a great place to experience French culture as it has an interesting history and was one of the regions affected by the French Revolution.

It’s easy to get around in Lannion too, as it’s well-connected to the rest of France by plane, train, and bus.

There are also plenty of cultural activities and tourist attractions in Lannion and the surrounding area, including medieval buildings, churches, and museums.

Plus, if you’re looking for a little bit more excitement, Lannion is only an hour away from the bigger city of Brest, which offers more nightlife and job opportunities.

3. Montauban

Montauban is a bustling city located in southwest France, about 40 miles from the Spanish border.

This charming southern French city has all the amenities of a big city, including: shops, restaurants, museums, and parks – but without the crazy prices!

Montauban also has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere, making it an incredibly attractive choice for expats looking to settle in France. There’s a mix of both French and Spanish culture here, which makes it a great place to experience a little bit of both worlds.

Average cost of living in Montauban

Living costs are very low in Montauban.

In fact, the cost of living here is 4% less than the national average in France!

The overall cost of living is estimated at around €1215 per month – including rent, groceries, and utilities. You can find one-bedroom apartments for rent here for around €500-700 per month.

It’s a great choice for those looking to enjoy city life without breaking the bank!

Montauban is well-connected to other cities in France and has plenty of cultural activities, events, and tourist attractions to keep you busy.

The Ingres Museum, Port Canal, the Botanical Garden, and Museum d’Histoire Naturelle Victor Brun are just some of the popular attractions in Montauban.

With its low living costs, vibrant atmosphere, and proximity to Spain, Montauban is a great choice for those wanting to live in France without shelling out tons of €€€.

4. Grenoble

Grenoble is one of the best cities to choose when it comes to affordable places to live in France. This city is located in the south-eastern part of the country, in the Rhône-Alpes region.

Grenoble is a vibrant and modern city, with plenty to offer its residents. The city has lots of green spaces, including parks and gardens, as well as plenty of cultural activities and events throughout the year.

There is tonnnnns to do in this city – it’s one of the bigger cities compared to some of the others on this list, so if you’re looking for a bustling city life, Grenoble might be the perfect fit.

P.S. I wrote a whole guide on the 20 best things to see and do in Grenoble, so go check that out next for some inspiration!

Grenoble is also super close to some of the best ski resorts in France, so if you’re a fan of winter sports, this could be a good option for you.

Chamonix and the famous Mont Blanc (the highest peak in Europe) are just a short drive away!

Average cost of living in Grenoble

The overall cost of living in Grenoble is estimated at around €1,500 per month – which is slightly higher than some other cities on this list.

This may sound expensive, but it’s actually quite reasonable for the size of Grenoble. You can find one-bedroom apartments for rent here starting at around €700 per month – which is still very affordable!

So, if you’re looking for an affordable and vibrant city life in France, then Grenoble could be the perfect place to call home.

5. Le Havre

Next up, we’ll head to the northern coast of France and take a look at Le Havre. This port city is located in the Seine-Maritime department, right on the English Channel.

Le Havre has plenty to offer its residents: there are lots of cultural activities, events, and tourist attractions here – including a beautiful harbor area with waterfront restaurants and cafes.

There are over 160 attractions and landmarks to experience in Le Havre! Some of the most popular are The Hanging Gardens, the Museum of Modern Art André Malraux, and Le Havre Beach.

Plus, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a ferry to nearby England!

Le Havre is just a 4-hour drive from the English border city of Dover. From there, you can easily continue on to visit London, Brighton, or Bristol. So if you’re feeling the need for a weekend abroad, this is the perfect spot to escape to.

There’s also a large English-speaking population here due to its proximity to England. So if you haven’t learned French yet, Le Havre is a great place to start.

P.S. I wrote a complete guide about my best tips for learning French that helped me become fluent in one year!

Average cost of living in Le Havre

Living costs in Le Havre are very affordable!

The overall cost of living here is estimated at around €1,100 per month – which is quite low for a city this size. You can find one-bedroom apartments for rent here starting at €400-500 (outside of the city center) to €700 per month for a well-located apartment.

6. Lille

A popular choice for expats looking to live in France is the city of Lille. This bustling metropolis is located in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region, and it has a ton of things to offer its residents.

The city’s cobblestone streets are full of cafes, restaurants, shops, markets, and local attractions. There are plenty of cultural activities to experience here – from museums and galleries to theaters and concert halls.

Lille is also just a short drive from some of the best beaches in France – so if you ever feel the need for a beach day, it’s easy to escape to one nearby!

There are also quite a few universities in Lille, making it a popular choice for those wanting to continue their education in France.

It’s actually one of the best cities in France for students!

Average cost of living in Lille

In an average month living in Lille, you can expect to spend around €1,400. It’s a bit more expensive than some of the other cities on this list, but you can definitely find cheaper options if you look hard enough.

One-bedroom apartments in Lille city center usually start at around €770 per month. Of course, prices vary depending on the exact location and size of the apartment – so it’s always a good idea to shop around before making your decision.

You can easily find one-bedroom apartments for rent here starting at €600 per month if you look outside of the city center.

7. Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful city in the south of France, on the Mediterranean coast.

It’s well-known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and great shopping. This popular destination is also very affordable with property prices being much lower than in other major French cities.

The city is full of history and culture – there is a range of museums, galleries, and monuments to explore! There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the nearby hills or relaxing on the beach.

Montpellier is a great choice for those who want the sun and sea, but don’t want to spend the big bucks that you’d need to live in a city like Nice or Cannes.

It’s also just a short drive from some of France’s most famous wine regions, so you can always take a day trip to explore and sample some of the local produce.

Montpellier has been growing in popularity in recent years, and has seen an increase in the number of expats moving to the city.

Montpellier was even named #1 Place to Live in France recently by NomadList!

Average cost of living in Montpellier

The overall cost of living in Montpellier is quite low – estimated at around €1,300 per month. This amount includes housing costs, groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

A one-bedroom apartment in Montpellier will cost you around €580-715 per month, so this is a great option for those on a tight budget.

You can also find cheaper apartments if you look outside of the city center.

8. Marseille

Ahhhh, Marseille.

Famously known for its stunning harbor, Marseille is the second-largest city in France. It’s an exciting destination full of interesting attractions such as the old port and colorful markets.

Marseille is also known for its diverse population and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for expats who want to live in France but don’t want to feel too overwhelmed.

The city also has a great nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from – perfect for those looking for some social fun. Plus, there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy here.

From swimming in the Mediterranean Sea and hiking in the nearby hills to exploring the nearby cities of Nice, Cannes, and beyond – you seriously cannot get bored here!

And the Calanques de Marseille are some of France’s most beautiful natural landscapes and a great place to spend a day paddleboarding along the crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Marseille is also a great option for those wanting to experience the French Riviera lifestyle without breaking the bank.

Average cost of living in Marseille

In an average month living in Marseille, you can expect to spend around €1,600 per month. This includes housing, groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

The average price for a one-bedroom apartment in Marseille is around €550-600 per month for a place outside of the city center.

But even if you’d prefer to live more central, rent prices still stay relatively low compared to other major cities in France. You can typically find a one-bedroom in the city center of Marseille for around €700 per month.

On average, rent in Marseille is actually 48.7% lower than in Paris!

That is seriously insane when you put it into perspective. Suddenly I’m considering moving back to the south of France…

If you’re looking to move to France on a budget but still want the luxury of living in a bigger city, Marseille could be the perfect place for you.

9. Mulhouse

Mulhouse (pronounced “mool-hooz”) is located in the Alsace region in north-eastern France and is just a short drive from Switzerland and Germany.

It’s an exciting city full of culture, boasting a vibrant arts scene with lots of galleries, museums, theatres, and more. It’s also known for its beautiful old town that is filled with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.

Basel is close to bigger cities like Strasbourg, which is a popular destination in winter for its huge Christmas markets.

The village of Colmar is also just a short drive away and is considered by many to be the most beautiful village in France. (It is pretty cute, I must admit)

It’s also just a 30-minute drive from the Swiss border (Basel) and is also well-connected with the rest of France via train. It’s a great option for those looking to live in an interesting city without breaking the bank.

Average cost of living in Mulhouse

Living in Mulhouse is surprisingly affordable – estimated at around €1,290 per month on average. This includes housing costs, groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

Rental prices for a one-bedroom apartment in Mulhouse are also quite low compared to other cities in France. You can typically find one for around €450-550 per month.

So if you’re looking for an inexpensive place to live in France but still want access to plenty of culture and outdoor activities within driving distance – Mulhouse could be the perfect option for you!

10. Nantes

Next up on the list of affordable French cities, we’ve got Nantes.

Nantes is located in western France on the Loire River and is known as the “Venice of the West” due to its many canals and bridges that traverse through the city. It’s a beautiful place with plenty of culture and history to explore.

With its historical churches, castles, and art galleries to its modern art museums, and theatres, Nantes is definitely a place worth exploring.

It’s also one of the best places for nature lovers since there are plenty of parks, gardens, and beaches to explore within driving distance.

It’s not too far from Paris either, so you can easily take a day trip or commute into the city a few times per month if needed.

Average cost of living in Nantes

Living in Nantes is estimated to be around €1,430 per month on average.

This includes housing costs (around €600-700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment), groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

Nantes is yet another city that ranks almost 48% lower than Paris in terms of rent costs.

Realllllly considering packing my bags now!

It’s a great option for those looking for a more affordable city to live in within close proximity to Paris.

And its location on the Loire River means you’re still able to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and nature when you need a break from city life.

11. Nîmes

Located in the south of France, Nîmes (pronounced “neem”) is a charming city filled with culture and history. It’s home to many Roman monuments like the Maison Carrée and the Arena of Nîmes.

It’s also just an hour away from Avignon, which is known for its renowned theatre festival and huge bridge (Pont du Gard).

Related read: Top 10 Most Famous Bridges in France

The city also boasts plenty of parks, gardens, and outdoor activities to explore. From its charming old town filled with cobblestone streets and cafes to its vibrant nightlife scene – there’s something for everyone in Nîmes.

It’s the perfect mix of culture, nature, and entertainment.

Average cost of living in Nîmes

Living in Nîmes is even more affordable than Mulhouse – estimated at around €1,200 per month on average. This includes housing costs (around €450-650 per month for a one-bedroom apartment), groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

12. Metz

Metz is a hidden gem on this list of affordable French cities. It’s located in the northeast region of France and it’s known for its stunning Gothic-style architecture.

The city is home to many churches, cathedrals, and monuments – some even dating back to Roman times. It’s also just a short drive away from Luxembourg City, which is known for its picturesque old town and Grand Ducal palace.

Metz is also surrounded by forests, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers who want to explore some of the region’s best hiking trails.

Average cost of living in Metz

Living in Metz is estimated to be around €1,250 per month on average. This includes housing costs (around €450-570 per month for a one-bedroom apartment), groceries, entertainment, and transportation.

13. Versailles

Known for its key role in the French Revolution and its glamorous Château, Versailles isn’t typically somewhere you would think of as an affordable place to live.

It’s home to one of the largest and most opulent palaces in Europe – the Palace of Versailles – which was once home to the French monarchy and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It’s also known for its immaculately manicured gardens and grand fountains.

Knowing this, you’d think that it would cost a fortune to live here!

But surprisingly, the cost of living here isn’t too bad – estimated at around €1,360 per month on average.

Housing prices are a bit more expensive here, though. You can expect to spend around €800 to €950 euros for a one-bedroom apartment.

Living in Versailles gives you the chance to explore this part of French history and culture while also enjoying the comforts of a fairly affordable place to live.

Plus, its proximity to Paris makes it a great option for those who want to enjoy the city life without breaking the bank. You can get to Paris in 45 minutes on the RER C train line.

Related read: How to visit Versailles on a day trip from Paris (Itinerary & tips)

So for those looking for an affordable place to live in close proximity to Paris, Versailles is definitely worth considering. It’s got the same charm of Paris with a bit more affordable cost of living (and a lotttttt less people!).

14. Toulon

Another seaside city worth considering is Toulon. Located on the Mediterranean coast, it’s known for its beaches and stunning landscapes as far as the eye can see.

Plus, Toulon is just a short drive away from Cannes, Nice, and Marseille – perfect for those who want to explore the rest of France during their stay in Toulon.

But what makes this city so attractive to potential residents is its affordability.

Average cost of living in Toulon

The cost of living in Toulon is estimated to be around €1,300 per month on average – significantly cheaper than cities like Paris and Versailles.

Housing costs are also relatively low – around €550 to €600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment – making it an attractive option for people looking for an affordable place to live.

All in all, Toulon is a great option for people looking for an affordable place to live near the Mediterranean Sea. It’s got plenty of beaches, stunning landscapes, and a low cost of living.

What more could you ask for?

15. Saint Étienne

Last but certainly not least, the small town of Saint Étienne is another great option for people looking for an affordable place to live in France.

It’s located in central France and it’s known for its industrial heritage – something that was once a huge driving force behind the city’s economy.

But what sets this city apart from the rest is its affordability – living in Saint Étienne is estimated to be around €1,200 per month on average.

Housing costs are also relatively low, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around €450 to €600 per month.

It’s also located close to Lyon and Grenoble, making it an ideal spot for people who want to explore the rest of France.

So, if you’re looking for an affordable place to live that still has plenty of things to do and see, Saint Étienne is definitely worth considering.

Cost of Living in France (2023) – Cities Compared

City	Estimated Cost of Living (Monthly in Є)
Paris	€2100
Châteauroux	€1200
Lannion	€1000
Montauban	€1215
Grenoble	€1500
Le Havre	€1100
Lille	€1400
Montpellier	€1300
Marseille	€1600
Mulhouse	€1290
Nantes	€1430
Nîmes	€1200
Metz	€1250
Versailles	€1360
Toulon	€1300
Saint Étienne	€1200

Thanks for reading!

So there you have it – 15 of the most affordable cities in France to live!

Whether you’re a student or budget traveler, these 15 cheapest cities in France offer great quality of life at an affordable cost – something that’s hard to come by these days.

But with a little bit of research and planning, you can find an affordable place to live in France without compromising your lifestyle.

I hope I’ve helped you narrow down your search and make moving to France a bit more manageable.

Bonne chance! 🙂

FAQ about living in France

How much do you need to live comfortably in France?

This depends totally on where in France you live and your lifestyle. Generally, if you choose to live in an affordable city like Versailles, Toulon, or Saint Étienne, a budget of around €1,200-1,500 per month should be enough for most people to live comfortably.

Which part of France should I move to?

It depends on what type of lifestyle you’re looking for and how much money you want to spend. If you want something affordable, cities like Montpellier, Nantes, or Saint Étienne are great options.

If you’re looking for a more upmarket experience, then Paris is the place to be – but it will come at a much higher cost.

Is it cheaper to live in the French countryside?

Generally, it is cheaper to live in rural areas than cities – but the cost of living can still vary greatly depending on location. It’s best to research and compare different locations before making a decision.

What is the average cost of living in France?

The average cost of living in France changes drastically between different parts of the country, and whether you’re renting or buying. Generally, a budget of around €1,500 per month should be enough for most people to live comfortably in France.

Are there any grants or assistance programs available for expats living in France?

Yes – the French government offers various grants and subsidies to expats living in France, such as language courses, housing assistance, and tax credits. It’s best to research these options before making a decision.