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Cost of Living in Strasbourg, France

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Written by Kittenproperties

08.08.2023

Introduction

Strasbourg, known for its rich history, captivating architecture, and as the formal seat of the European Parliament, is a city that beautifully meshes the cultures of France and Germany. As it stands on the eastern border of France, Strasbourg offers its residents and visitors an enriching experience. But what is the cost of living in this picturesque city? In this deep dive, we'll explore various aspects of living in Strasbourg, from everyday needs to property prices.Strasbourg, the capital of the Grand Est region, is a city that is both historic and forward-looking. Its location along the Rhine River has historically made it a hub of trade, culture, and politics. As one of the de facto capitals of the European Union, it's home to several European institutions, including the European Parliament.Historically, Strasbourg has shifted between German and French rule, contributing to its unique cultural flavor. With its picturesque canals, half-timbered houses, and iconic Gothic cathedral, Strasbourg draws in not just tourists but also those looking to reside in a city that offers both historical charm and modern amenities.

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Everyday Needs

Food and Groceries

On average, you can expect the following monthly expenses for food and groceries in Strasbourg: - Milk (1 liter): €1.10 - Bread (500g loaf): €1.40 - Rice (1kg): €2.00 - Eggs (12): €2.50 Meat: Beef and veal are slightly more expensive in Strasbourg compared to other French cities, averaging €18-€22 per kilogram. Pork, on the other hand, is relatively cheaper, coming in at €8-€12 per kilogram. Fish: Fresh fish like trout or salmon ranges from €14-€20 per kilogram. Cheese: France's love for cheese is evident in Strasbourg. Expect to pay anywhere from €11-€20 per kilogram for local varieties. Wine: Alsace, the region where Strasbourg is located, is renowned for its wines, especially its whites. A decent bottle can be as low as €6, but premium varieties can go well beyond €50. Chicken breasts (1kg): €10.00 Fruits & Vegetables: €25-€35 (based on weekly shopping for a single person)

Utilities and Internet

Mobile: A monthly prepaid plan without a contract averages €15-€20. Television: Cable packages range from €25-€40 per month. Utility bills for a standard 85m2 apartment can range between €120 and €200, depending on usage and season. This includes electricity, heating, cooling, and water. For internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL), you might spend around €25-€30 per month.

Entertainment and Leisure

Strasbourg has a vibrant cultural scene. A standard movie ticket costs about €10, and a dinner at a mid-range restaurant can range from €30 to €50 for two people. Theatre: A night at the local theatre or opera might cost €20-€60 depending on the seating and production. Bars and Pubs: A pint of beer generally costs around €6, while a glass of local wine can be €4-€8.

Healthcare and Wellness

Doctor’s Visit: An average consultation with a general practitioner might cost around €25, but a significant portion can be reimbursed through the French healthcare system. Pharmacy: Prescription medicine costs vary, but over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol can cost as little as €2 for a pack of 16 tablets. Gym: Membership to a local gym or fitness center averages €40-€60 per month.

Housing and Rent

Rental prices in Strasbourg

Rental prices in Strasbourg have seen a steady increase in recent years. It's crucial to keep an eye on trends and available listings, especially in popular neighborhoods like La Petite France or the area surrounding the university. Rent varies based on location within the city:

City Centre

One-bedroom apartment: €650-€900 per month Three-bedroom apartment: €1,200-€1,700 per month

Outside City Centre

One-bedroom apartment: €500-€750 per month Three-bedroom apartment: €900-€1,300 per month

Buying Property

Considering buying property in Strasbourg

If you're considering buying property in Strasbourg:

City Centre

€3,500-€4,500 per square meter

Outside City Centre

€2,500-€3,200 per square meter

Transportation

Public transport system

Strasbourg boasts a comprehensive public transport system. A monthly transport ticket costs around €50. If you prefer driving, gasoline prices hover around €1.50 per liter.

Bicycles

With its many cycle paths, Strasbourg is one of the most bike-friendly cities in France. A decent bicycle can be purchased for €100-€300.

Cars

If you're looking to buy a car, consider the annual insurance, which can vary greatly based on the vehicle type and your driving history.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Fitness Club (Monthly Fee for 1 Adult)

€30-€50

Preschool/Kindergarten (Private, Monthly for 1 Child)

€400-€600

International Primary School (Yearly for 1 Child)

€10,000-€15,000

Education and Schools

For those with families

Strasbourg offers a mix of local, bilingual, and international schools. While public education is free, bilingual schools can charge anywhere from €3,000-€7,000 annually.

Taxes and Income

Strasbourg's progressive tax system

Strasbourg, like the rest of France, has a progressive tax system. It's essential to be aware of tax brackets and potential deductions, especially if you're self-employed or running a business.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Strasbourg offers its residents a balanced life with the charm of a historic city and the amenities of modern urban living. While the cost of living might seem high to some, it's essential to compare it with the quality of life and opportunities the city offers.The cost of living in Strasbourg, while higher than some smaller French towns, offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, opportunities, and a high standard of living that might justify the expenses.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Strasbourg a good place to live?

Strasbourg offers a high quality of life, rich cultural experiences, and a mix of both urban and natural beauty. Its strategic location as a European hub also provides ample professional opportunities.

2. How does Strasbourg compare to Paris in terms of cost of living?

In general, Strasbourg is less expensive than Paris, especially concerning housing and rent. However, it offers a similar level of urban amenities and cultural experiences.

3. Is it essential to know French to live in Strasbourg?

While it's beneficial to know French, many inhabitants speak English, especially in the business and academic sectors due to its status as a European hub.

4. How is the healthcare system in Strasbourg?

Strasbourg offers excellent healthcare facilities. France's healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and residents can access both public and private healthcare options.

5. Are there international schools in Strasbourg?

Yes, due to its international nature, Strasbourg has several international schools catering to various curricula and age groups.

6. Is Strasbourg safe?

Generally, yes. Like any urban area, there are neighborhoods with higher crime rates, but on the whole, Strasbourg is a safe city with a low crime rate.

7. How is the job market in Strasbourg?

With the presence of European institutions, there are numerous opportunities in the political and legal sectors. The University of Strasbourg also offers positions in academia and research.

8. Is Strasbourg friendly for expats?

Definitely. Its status as a European hub means it's used to a diverse range of residents. Numerous expat communities and organizations can help newcomers settle in.

9. What's the climate like?

Strasbourg has a transitional oceanic climate with warm summers and cool winters. It gets a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year.

10. Is it easy to travel from Strasbourg to other European cities?

Absolutely. Being near the border, cities like Frankfurt and Stuttgart in Germany are easily accessible. Its central location also makes it a gateway to many other European destinations via train or plane.

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