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Cost of living in Saint-Etienne France

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Written by Kittenproperties

10.08.2023

Introduction

Saint-Etienne, a commune in the Rhône-Alpes region of France, offers an intriguing mix of history, culture, and economic activity. Known for its football club and vibrant art scene, it provides a unique living experience. However, before deciding to relocate or spend significant time here, one must consider the cost of living. This article will delve deep into the various costs associated with living in Saint-Etienne.

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Everyday Needs

Groceries

Bread: A loaf of fresh white bread is approximately €1.10. Milk: A liter of regular milk typically costs around €0.95. Eggs: A dozen large eggs can be priced at about €2.50. Cheese: France is renowned for its cheese; expect to pay around €15 per kilogram for a medium-priced variety. Fruits & Vegetables: Basic fruits and vegetables like apples and tomatoes can cost about €2.50 per kilogram.

Dining Out

Local Eatery: A meal at a modest local restaurant will cost you around €12-€15. Three-course meal at mid-range restaurant: Expect to pay between €30-€40. Coffee: A regular cappuccino is around €2.50.

Housing and Accommodation

Renting

One-bedroom apartment in City Centre: Approximately €500-€600 per month. One-bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: Roughly €400-€500 per month. Three-bedroom apartment in City Centre: Around €900-€1,100 per month. Three-bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: Approximately €700-€850 per month.

Buying Property

Price per square meter in City Centre: Between €2,500-€3,000. Price per square meter outside the City Centre: Approximately €1,800-€2,200.

Transportation

Public Transport

Monthly Transportation Pass (bus, tram, etc.): About €50-€60. Single Ride Ticket: Around €1.50.

Owning a Car

Volkswagen Golf or equivalent: Starting from €20,000-€23,000. Petrol: Approximately €1.40 per liter.

Other Expenses

Utilities

Basic monthly utilities for an 85 m2 apartment: About €150-€200. This includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage.

Healthcare

Doctor's visit: Expect to pay between €25-€30 without insurance. Prescription medicine: Prices vary, but basic antibiotics can cost around €10-€15.

Leisure Activities

Cinema ticket: Roughly €10. Monthly gym membership: Around €30-€40.

Education

Education is an integral part of any society, and understanding the costs associated with it is crucial, especially for families planning to move.

Primary and Secondary Schools

Public Schools: Education in public schools in France is free, but families may incur minor costs for materials, school trips, and extracurricular activities. Private Schools: Tuition fees can range from €3,000 to €10,000 annually, depending on the institution's prestige.

Higher Education

Saint-Etienne is home to Jean Monnet University, which offers a range of courses from arts to science. Tuition for EU Students: €170 per year for a Bachelor's degree, €243 for a Master's degree. Tuition for Non-EU Students: Around €2,770 per year for a Bachelor's and €3,770 for a Master's.

Clothing and Personal Care

Shopping for clothing in Saint-Etienne can be a delightful experience. The city has a mix of local boutiques and international brands.

Basic summer dress in a chain store

€30-€40.

Pair of branded running shoes

€80-€100.

Pair of leather business shoes

€90-€150.

Haircut (standard salon)

€20 for men, €40 for women.

Entertainment and Culture

Saint-Etienne offers a plethora of cultural activities, from museums to theaters and festivals.

Museum entry ticket

€8-€12.

Theater ticket

Depending on the show, prices can range from €20 to €60.

Local festivals

Some events are free, while others might charge an entrance fee of €10-€50.

Telecommunications

Connectivity is crucial in today's digital age.

Basic broadband internet (monthly)

€25-€35.

Mobile call rate (per minute – no discounts or plans)

Around €0.10.

1 GB of mobile data

Approximately €5.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Newspaper

A daily newspaper costs around €1.50.

Cigarettes (Pack of 20)

Approximately €10.

Local Beer (500ml)

Around €1.50 in a store and €5 in a restaurant.

Cappuccino

Around €2.50.

Financial Services

Understanding banking and financial services is essential for residents and businesses.

Bank account maintenance fees (monthly)

Most French banks charge around €1-€5.

ATM withdrawal fees

Typically €1-€2, if using an ATM not affiliated with your bank.

Currency exchange fee

Around 1-3% of the exchanged amount.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Saint-Etienne more affordable than Paris?

Yes, Saint-Etienne tends to be more affordable than Paris, especially concerning housing and certain everyday expenses.

2. How do locals find accommodation in Saint-Etienne?

Many locals use real estate agencies, local classifieds, or online platforms dedicated to rentals and property sales in the region.

3. Is public transportation reliable in Saint-Etienne?

Yes, Saint-Etienne boasts a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trams, which cover most parts of the city.

4. How is healthcare in Saint-Etienne?

Healthcare in Saint-Etienne is of high quality, like much of France. There are several hospitals and clinics throughout the city, and healthcare is accessible to residents and visitors.

5. What languages are commonly spoken in Saint-Etienne?

French is the predominant language spoken in Saint-Etienne. However, due to its diverse population and its reputation as a student city, many residents and students speak English and other European languages.

6. How is the job market in Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has seen a transition from traditional industries to more modern sectors. There's growth in the fields of design, digital technology, and services. While the job market might not be as robust as larger cities like Lyon or Paris, opportunities exist, especially for those with specialized skills.

7. What are the safety levels in Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne is generally safe, though, like any urban area, it's wise to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

8. Are there international communities in Saint-Etienne?

Yes, thanks to the university and various multinational companies, there's a growing international community. Many expats and international students reside in the city.

9. How is the weather in Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne experiences a temperate oceanic climate. Winters can be chilly with occasional snow, while summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures rarely exceeding 30°C.

10. Is it essential to speak French in Saint-Etienne?

While many people speak English, especially among the younger generation and in academic circles, it's beneficial to have a basic grasp of French for everyday tasks and interactions.

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