Written by Kittenproperties
17.08.2023
The cost of living can be a defining factor when considering relocating to a new city. Brest, located in the Brittany region of France, is often chosen for its maritime charm, cultural attractions, and quality of life. However, understanding the economics of day-to-day life is vital for potential newcomers. This article dives deep into the cost of living in Brest, touching upon everyday needs, rent, property prices, transportation, and more.Brest, while not as globally renowned as Paris or Nice, offers a unique blend of maritime history and Breton culture. Before diving into the financial aspects of living here, it's essential to note that the quality of life and cost of living are relative. While Brest might be cheaper than Paris, it might be more expensive than some smaller towns in France.
Brest's grocery prices tend to be moderate, with local markets and supermarkets offering a range of products. A basic meal for two might cost around €30, while monthly groceries for a single person might hover around €250-€300.
Dining out in Brest is a treat, with its fresh seafood and Breton specialties. A meal at an average restaurant can cost between €10-€20, while a three-course meal at a mid-range establishment might be around €40-€50.
Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, and water, for an 85m² apartment can be around €150 per month. Internet and telecommunications might add another €30-€50.
Rent is relatively affordable in Brest compared to larger French cities: - Single-bedroom apartment in city center: €450-€600 per month. - Single-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €350-€500 per month. - Three-bedroom apartment in city center: €800-€1,200 per month. - Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €650-€950 per month.
The property market in Brest has seen steady growth over the years. On average: - Price per square meter in the city center: €2,200-€2,800. - Price per square meter outside the city center: €1,500-€2,100.
Brest boasts a reliable public transport system. A monthly transport ticket can cost around €50. Single tickets, useful for occasional users, are about €1.50.
If you're considering buying a car, keep in mind: - Cost of a new car (e.g., Volkswagen Golf or equivalent): €20,000-€25,000. - Gasoline: Around €1.50 per liter.
(around €10-€15 for a cinema ticket), gym memberships (€30-€50 per month), and personal care products.
Brest is home to several higher education institutions. Université de Bretagne Occidentale (UBO) is a significant player in the academic scene here. For students, living costs can be considerably lower than in larger French cities. A student might expect to spend around €800-€1,000 per month, inclusive of accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Brest has a vibrant cultural scene with theaters, museums, and galleries. Tickets for cultural events like plays or concerts generally range from €20 to €50. Brest's maritime history is celebrated at the National Maritime Museum, where entrance fees are around €10.
and Brest is no exception. The city's main hospital, CHRU Brest, offers comprehensive medical services. For non-EU expats, it's advisable to have private health insurance. Typical doctor visits can cost around €25, with partial reimbursement possible through the French Social Security system.
On average: - A pair of jeans (Levi's or equivalent): €70-€100. - A summer dress from a high-street brand: €30-€50. - A pair of running shoes (Nike or equivalent): €70-€120. - Personal care items like shampoo, conditioner, or body lotion might cost around €5-€10 each, depending on the brand.
- Sports: Joining a local sports club can cost around €300-€500 annually. - Cinema: A cinema ticket for a new release can be about €10-€15. - Gym: Monthly gym memberships range from €30-€60.
In Brest: - Preschool (or Crèche): Costs can vary, but on average, you might spend €500-€700 per month. - Private nannies: Rates are about €10-€15 per hour.
In conclusion, Brest offers a relatively affordable living in comparison to some of France's larger cities. With its rich culture, maritime heritage, and quality of life, it's an option worth considering for those seeking a French experience outside of the usual suspects.To sum up, Brest offers a unique blend of maritime charm, academic vigor, and Breton tradition. The cost of living, while more affordable than major French urban centers, provides a high quality of life. As always, personal expenses will vary based on lifestyle choices, but Brest remains an appealing option for many seeking a distinctive French experience.
France has a robust public healthcare system. While there are out-of-pocket expenses, they're relatively low, especially compared to countries like the U.S.
Brest is significantly cheaper than Paris, especially concerning housing and some everyday expenses.
While Brest has a range of educational institutions, there are limited options for international schools. Expats might need to consider this if they have school-age children.
While many people in Brest speak some English, it's always beneficial to learn basic French phrases to navigate daily life more comfortably.
Brest is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and exercise standard safety precautions.
Brest has a maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round. Heating costs in winter are moderate due to the mildness, but weatherproof clothing is recommended given its frequent rains.
Brest is well-connected by rail and road. The TGV (high-speed train) connects Brest to Paris in about 4 hours. Transportation costs can vary, but a one-way TGV ticket can cost around €70-€120, depending on how far in advance it's booked.
Absolutely! Brest is near the coast, providing ample opportunities for sailing, fishing, and beach activities. Nature trails and parks also offer hiking and cycling options.
While French remains the dominant language, many professionals, especially those in academia and tech sectors, speak English. However, for day-to-day living, a basic understanding of French is highly beneficial.
Brest has a history of maritime trade and, as such, has always been somewhat outward-looking. Expats generally report feeling welcomed, though making an effort to understand and participate in local customs and traditions is always appreciated.
Explore the life of an expat in Evora, Portugal. Uncover the city's rich history, enticing cuisine, and friendly community while also understanding its challenges. This comprehensive guide discusses the pros and cons of living in Evora, helping you make an informed decision about your next adventure.
Discover lucrative real estate investment opportunities in Dublin, Ireland, with our comprehensive guide covering property types, top investment areas, and rent and sales price examples to help you make informed decisions.
Explore the transformative role of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in Ireland's property market. From understanding the basics of REITs to assessing their performance and future trends, this comprehensive guide provides an in-depth analysis of Ireland's thriving REIT landscape.
