Cost Of Living In France Vs The UK: Updated Price 2025

A chapter of a student’s life that is thrilling, filled with expectations and interest, is starting a path of higher education. France and the UK, which are centres of international education, entice students with their famous universities, diverse cultures, and one-of-a-kind experiences. We’ll examine a thorough comparison of the cost of living in France vs the UK for students in this blog. We’ll also explore the welcoming atmosphere each country provides for international students, illuminating the general standard of living, best places to stay, and best universities in both countries for students that make studying in each worthwhile. 

What Is The Average Cost Of Living In France Vs The UK?

When considering the average cost of living in France compared to the UK, it’s essential to factor in various aspects that contribute to the overall financial landscape for students. For those seeking off-campus accommodation in France, the estimated monthly cost stands at €1,461 monthly, slightly surpassing the UK’s figure of €1,154 (equivalent to approximately £1,335). 

However, if on-campus accommodation is preferred, the monthly expenses in France rise to around €1,511, while the UK maintains a comparable rate of €1,218 (about £1,409). Following is the breakdown of the average monthly cost of living in France vs the UK.

Student Accommodation In France Vs The UK

Navigating the realm of student accommodation is a crucial step in the journey of international education. Finding the ideal spot to call home is a must, whether you’re headed to the lively cities of the UK or the beautiful streets of France. Both countries provide a wide range of housing alternatives, from shared homes to dorm rooms, to accommodate different tastes and price ranges, making your experience of the UK vs France’s cost of living both comfortable and enriching.

France

• Housing Options: In France, students can choose from various accommodations including apartments, dorms, and shared houses.
• Monthly Rent: Rental costs vary, with options like €600/month for shared properties and up to €3,191/month for more luxurious choices.
• Best Places to Stay: Cities like Paris, Lyon, and Toulouse offer a blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making them sought-after destinations for students.

The United Kingdom

• Housing Options:  The UK provides an array of housing options including flats, studios, and purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs).
• Weekly Rent: Prices range from £129/week to £310/week, offering a diverse range to fit different budgets.
• Best Places to Stay: Cities like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester host esteemed universities and diverse cultural experiences, making them top student hubs.

For a smoother housing experience, UniAcco offers a wide range of student accommodations in the UK, ensuring proximity to universities and essential amenities. For student accommodation in France also students can find similar assistance, allowing them to focus on their studies while living comfortably. With UniAcco‘s expertise, students can seamlessly transition into their study abroad journey, confident in their housing choices.

Tuition Fees

France has lower tuition fees than the UK for both EU and non-EU students in the context of the cost of living in France vs the UK.  According to various sources, the average public university in France charges €2,770 per year for non-EU undergraduate students and €3,770 for non-EU postgraduate students. In the UK, the average tuition fee for non-EU undergraduate students is £14,096 per year and £16,222 for non-EU postgraduate students.

Popular Courses

• France: Business, Engineering, Film Studies, Culinary, Computer Science, and more.
• UK: Business Studies, Law, Engineering, Medicine, Psychology, and more.

Scholarship Availability

There are many scholarships available for Indian students who want to study in France or UK. Some of the scholarships for France are French Government Scholarship, Charpak Scholarship, Franco Indian Education Trust, Erasmus +, Early Bird Scholarships, Raman Charpak Fellowship. 

Some of the scholarships for the UK are the Chevening Scholarship, Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), GREAT Scholarships India Programme 2023-24 (British Council), Rhodes Scholarship India 2023-24 (University of Oxford), Inlaks Scholarships 2023-24 (Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation).

Following is a list of the 10 best universities in France and the UK according to QS World University Rankings 2023:

Food Cost

When it comes to experiencing the vibrant flavours of a new country, understanding food costs is essential. In France, the average monthly food expense is around €600, compared to London’s £ 360 (€ 416). Groceries are also a significant consideration, with €28 spent on average in France and €28 (around 32) in London each month.

Famous Food In France

• Croissant: This iconic flaky pastry is a staple of French breakfasts.
• Coq au Vin: A classic dish featuring tender chicken braised in red wine, mushrooms, and onions.
• Macarons: Colorful and delicate almond meringue cookies with creamy fillings.

Famous Foods In The UK

• Shepherd’s Pie: A comforting dish made with minced meat (usually lamb or beef) topped with mashed potatoes.
• Bangers and Mash: A traditional British meal of sausages served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Cornish Pasty: A savoury pastry filled with meat and vegetables, often associated with Cornwall.

Transportation Costs

When it comes to navigating cities and regions, transportation costs are a significant consideration for students while understanding the aspects of the cost of living in France vs the UK . The following table provides a clear visual comparison of the transportation costs in France and the UK for different categories, as per the study of Numbeo.

Transportation Modes 

1. Trains: Efficient rail networks connect major cities and regions in both countries. Students can benefit from discounts or passes like the Carte Jeune in France and the 16-25 Railcard in the UK.
2. Buses: Affordable and convenient for intra-city travel, with reduced fares or passes available for students.
3. Taxis: Expensive but quick; apps like Uber, Bolt, and Kapten are popular for ridesharing.
4. Driving: Possible with valid licenses, insurance, and permits; can be costly due to fuel, parking, tolls, and congestion charges.
5. Cycling: Healthy and eco-friendly option with bike-sharing services like Vélib in France and Santander Cycles in the UK.

Entertainment And Other Expenses

When it comes to enjoying life outside of academics, understanding entertainment and other living expenses is crucial for students. France and the UK offer unique experiences, each with its own costs to consider. Students often enjoy discounts with their student cards or if they’re under 25. Following is the breakdown of entertainment and other utility and miscellaneous expenses that students have to pay while living in France or the UK.

• Entertainment: France:  €50 (€46) | UK – €40 (€46)
• Utility Cost: France:  €111 | UK – €189 (€218)
• Clothes: France – €86 | UK – €64 (€74)
• Mobile Phone Monthly Plan: France – €31.99 (€27.71 £) | UK – €13.49 (€11.68 £)
• Internet (60 Mbps or More): France – €29.46 (€25.52 £) | UK – €34.97 (€30.30 £)
• Fitness Club Monthly Fee: France – €32.29 (€27.97 £) | UK – €36.86 (€31.93 £)

Healthcare Facilities 

Both France and the UK offer healthcare facilities tailored to the needs of students. Here’s a breakdown of their healthcare systems and services:

Healthcare System In France

• Coverage: French students are required to have health insurance covering a minimum of €30,000 per year. They can also seek a scholarship refunding 40% of living expenses through CAF.
• Fees: The average monthly health cost in France is around €20.
• Services: Students can access healthcare services by presenting their Carte Vitale, which ensures reimbursement for medical expenses.

Healthcare System in the UK

• Coverage: International students studying in the UK for six months or more are entitled to free healthcare under the National Health Service (NHS).
• Services: The NHS provides comprehensive services including GP visits, hospital treatment, emergency care, dental care, eye care, mental health services, sexual health services, and vaccinations.
• Fees: While most services are free, there might be some charges for certain treatments.

Part-time Job Opportunities For Students

For students seeking part-time work to support their studies and experience local culture, both the UK and France offer a diverse range of employment options. Here’s an overview of potential fields and the average salaries they offer

• Online tutoring: Students can teach subjects like English, Maths, Science, or any other language or skill to students from different countries online. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an online tutor in the UK is £20 per hour1, while in France it is €15 per hour2.
• Cafe or restaurant work: Students can work as waiters, bartenders, cashiers, or kitchen staff in cafes or restaurants near their place of study. According to Indeed, the average salary for a café or restaurant worker in the UK is £8.91 per hour3, while in France it is €10.25 per hour4.
• Babysitting or nanny jobs: Students can look after children of families who need childcare services. According to PayScale, the average salary for a babysitter or nanny in the UK is £9.21 per hour5, while in France it is €9.98 per hour6.
• Museum or tour guide jobs: Students who have an interest in history, art, or culture can work as museum guides or tour guides for visitors. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a museum or tour guide in the UK is £10 per hour7, while in France it is €12 per hour.

Conclusion

The cost of living in France vs the UK varies depending on the location, lifestyle and personal preferences of each individual. However, based on some general indicators, such as food, housing, transportation and entertainment, France seems to be slightly cheaper than the UK on average. However, the difference is not very significant and both countries offer a high quality of life and a range of opportunities.

FAQs

Q1. Which country is more expensive to live in, France or the UK?

Ans: According to some sources, the UK is more expensive than France on average, by about 5% to 23%. However, this may vary depending on the location, lifestyle and personal preferences of each individual.

Q2. Which country has a higher average salary, France or the UK?

Ans: According to some sources, the UK has a higher average salary than France, by about 18%1. However, this may vary depending on the occupation, education and experience of each individual.

Q3. What is the average France cost of living vs the UK?

Ans: The average cost of living in France is €1,461 per month with off-campus accommodation, whereas, in the UK, it is £1,154 (equivalent to around €1,335) per month.

Q4. Which Country is good to pursue higher education, France or the UK?

Ans: Both France and the UK offer excellent higher education options; France is known for affordability and cultural experience, while the UK boasts world-renowned universities and English-taught programmes.

Q5. Which country has cheaper transportation, France or the UK?

Ans: According to some sources, France has cheaper transportation than the UK, by about 15%145. However, this may vary depending on the mode, distance and frequency of transportation used by each individual.

Thank you for reading about the “Cost Of Living In France Vs The UK.” If you’re interested in exploring more articles on related topics, we recommend checking out the below articles:

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