France: Living

Welsh diplomatic representations

The Welsh Government overseas offices aim to grow the economy by increasing exporting and attracting inward investment, raising Wales' profile on the international stage and establishing Wales as a globally responsible nation. Details on the offices in France are below:

Paris: +33 1 44 51 31 36
Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm local time

Communities of Expatriates

The Number of Expatriates: The population of expatriates in France represents 6.5 million people. (National Institute of Demographic Studies).
For further information: France Diplomatie
Expatica France
The Local France
Expat.com
Angloinfo France
Immigration Authority: Immigration, asylum, reception and support for foreigners in France (Ministry of the Interior)
Transportation Companies For Moving/Removals: List of international movers
Contact the Embassy: Contact the Embassy of France in the United Kingdom.
Contact Your Embassy: Contact the British Embassy in France.

Ranking of Cities

For further information: Quality of Living Worldwide City Rankings (Survey by Mercer)
Cost of Living Worldwide City Rankings (Survey by Mercer)

Renting an Apartment

Average Lease Term

In France, the average lease term for renting an apartment is typically 3 years (36 months) for unfurnished apartments and 1 year (12 months) for furnished apartments. These are the standard lease durations as per the French law, but there can be variations depending on individual circumstances and agreements between landlords and tenants. Shorter lease terms are also possible, especially for furnished apartments or in specific situations where temporary or short-term accommodation is required. In such cases, lease durations can range from a few months to a year. It's common for leases in France to include a "tacit renewal" clause, which means that if neither the landlord nor the tenant gives notice to terminate the lease at least 3 months before its expiration, the lease automatically renews for the same duration.

Average Rental Costs

The average rental costs for apartments in France can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the location (city, suburban area, rural), apartment size, amenities, condition, and local market conditions. Rental prices are typically higher in major cities compared to smaller towns or rural areas. It's important to note that the following figures are approximate and can fluctuate over time:

Paris: In Paris, rental prices tend to be higher compared to other cities in France. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Paris ranges from around €1,200 to €2,500. Larger apartments with two or three bedrooms can range from approximately €2,000 to €4,500 or more per month.
Other Major Cities: Rental costs in other major cities such as Lyon, Marseille, and Bordeaux are relatively lower compared to Paris. On average, a one-bedroom apartment in these cities can range from approximately €700 to €1,500 per month, while larger apartments with two or three bedrooms can range from €1,200 to €2,500 or more per month.
Suburban Areas and Smaller Towns: Rental prices in suburban areas and smaller towns in France are generally more affordable compared to major cities. Prices can vary significantly depending on the specific location, but as a rough estimate, a one-bedroom apartment in these areas can range from €500 to €1,200 per month, and larger apartments with two or three bedrooms can range from €800 to €1,800 or more per month.

Rental Agency Websites

Seloger
Pap.fr
Century 21
Orpi
Guy Hoquet
Logic-Immo
Fnaim
ParuVendu

Individual and Civic Freedoms

Civil Liberty: 2/7

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This content is provided by Business Wales, an agency of the Welsh Government, and is intended to Welsh individuals and companies for information purposes.