Back to the article results

Cost of Living in Limoges, France

main image

Written by Kittenproperties

18.08.2023

Introduction

Limoges, situated in the Limousin region of France, is known for its medieval enamels, its fine porcelain, and the rich history that it boasts. Over the years, its reputation has made it a desired place to live for both locals and expatriates. This article dives deep into the cost of living in this picturesque city, touching upon everyday needs, housing, and transportation costs.

halfpictureimage

Groceries

Overview

The cost of groceries can vary, but on average:

A liter of milk

€1.00 - €1.30

Bread (500g)

€1.10 - €1.50

Chicken breast (1kg)

€8 - €12

Apples (1kg)

€2 - €3.50

A bottle of mid-range wine

€5 - €10

Dining Out

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant

€10 - €15

A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two

€40 - €60

Cappuccino

€2.50 - €4.00

Entertainment

Cinema ticket

€9 - €12

Monthly gym membership

€30 - €50

Theater ticket

€20 - €50

Housing

Renting

Apartment rental costs differ based on their location (city center vs. outside) and size:

1-bedroom apartment in the city center

€500 - €700 per month

1-bedroom apartment outside the city center

€400 - €550 per month

3-bedroom apartment in the city center

€900 - €1,200 per month

3-bedroom apartment outside the city center

€700 - €950 per month

Property Buying

Price per square meter in the city center

€2,200 - €3,000

Price per square meter outside the city center

€1,500 - €2,200

Transportation

One-way ticket (local transport)

€1.50 - €2.50

Monthly transport pass

€40 - €60

Gasoline (1 liter)

€1.40 - €1.70

Average new car cost

€20,000 - €30,000

Other Costs

Basic utilities for an 85 m^2 apartment (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage)

€150 - €200 per month

Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data)

€25 - €40 per month

Education

If you're planning to move with your family or are keen on furthering your education, Limoges offers a range of educational institutions. Tuition costs can vary:

Public Schools

Generally free, with some charges for materials and extra-curricular activities.

Private Schools

Tuition can range from €3,000 to €8,000 per year, depending on the institution and grade level.

Universities

University of Limoges: An average of €170 - €650 per year for bachelor's and master's programs, respectively.

Healthcare

France, as a whole, is renowned for its excellent healthcare system, and Limoges is no exception:

Doctor’s consultation

€25 - €50, depending on specialization.

Dental check-up

€30 - €70, excluding specialized treatments.

Medications

Prices can vary widely, but prescription medicines are usually subsidized.

Culture & Leisure

With its rich history and vibrant culture, there are plenty of leisure activities in Limoges:

Museums

Entry fees range from €5 - €15.

City Tours

Guided city tours can cost between €10 - €50 depending on duration and exclusivity.

Porcelain Workshops

Starting from €30 for a half-day experience.

Clothing & Personal Care

Being a smaller city, shopping in Limoges might not be as extensive as Paris, but it still offers a decent variety:

Pair of jeans

€50 - €100

Summer dress in a chain store

€20 - €40

Pair of sports shoes (Nike, Adidas, etc.)

€60 - €120

Haircut (women/men)

€40-€60 / €15-€25

Transportation (Extended)

While we've covered the basics, it's worth noting that many residents prefer bicycles or walking due to the city's layout:

Bicycle

Prices start at around €150 for a basic model.

Car Insurance

Depending on the vehicle and driver's age, insurance can range from €300 to €1,500 per year.

Miscellaneous

Mobile Plans

Unlimited calls and texts with 50GB of data can cost around €20 - €30/month.

Books

A paperback novel can cost between €8 - €15.

Newspapers

Local papers may charge €1.50 per issue, while national papers might be €2 - €3.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Limoges presents a more affordable living standard than some of France's major cities, it's crucial to assess personal expenses and lifestyle choices when determining if this picturesque city aligns with one's financial and lifestyle objectives.In wrapping up, Limoges, with its quaint charm and relatively affordable lifestyle, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of major urban centers. Its blend of history, culture, and modernity provides a balanced living environment, especially for those looking for a more relaxed pace of life.

halfpictureimage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Limoges more affordable than Paris?

Yes, in general, the cost of living in Limoges is lower than in Paris, especially concerning housing costs.

2. What is the primary source of income in Limoges?

Historically, Limoges is known for its porcelain production, but other industries and services have also emerged as significant sources of income.

3. Are there many expatriates living in Limoges?

While Limoges has a smaller expatriate community compared to cities like Paris or Nice, its quality of life has attracted a fair number of foreign residents.

4. How does the healthcare system in Limoges compare to the rest of France?

Limoges, like much of France, boasts a high-quality healthcare system. The city has several reputable hospitals and clinics.

5. Is Limoges a good place for retirees?

Many retirees find Limoges appealing due to its lower cost of living, rich history, and slower pace of life compared to larger French cities.

6. How does the climate in Limoges affect living costs?

Limoges experiences a temperate maritime climate. Winter can be colder, leading to higher heating costs, but overall, it doesn't have a drastic impact on the overall cost of living.

7. What are the employment opportunities in Limoges?

Beyond its famed porcelain industry, Limoges has sectors in healthcare, education, tourism, and agriculture that offer employment opportunities.

8. Is Limoges safe for expatriates and families?

Limoges has a relatively low crime rate, especially in comparison to bigger cities. It's considered safe for both expatriates and families.

9. Are there any international communities or clubs?

While Limoges doesn't have as extensive an international community as Paris, there are expatriate groups and clubs that can be found through local directories or online platforms.

10. What is the best way to find accommodation in Limoges?

Local real estate agents, online portals, and word of mouth are reliable methods. Given its size, a short visit to explore neighborhoods and housing options might also be beneficial.

original site banner

Let’s find the perfect property for you in France!

Find houses for sale and long term rentals on kittenproperties

See more articles on this topic