If you are thinking about moving to France, you might be curious about how your financial situation compares to the French standard of living. Whether you’re considering a French visa for long-term stay or just wondering about how far your income will stretch as an expat in France, the reality might surprise you. Even if you’re considered lower or middle class in your home country, you may find yourself in a comfortable position when living in France.
Understanding economic classes in France
In France, the minimum wage (known as SMIC) is currently around 1,400 € net per month, which comes to 16,800 € per year (equivalent to approximately ¢18,000 per year). This might sound low compared to some other countries, but it’s important to note that the cost of living in many parts of France, particularly outside of Paris or the French Riviera, is much more affordable than in major cities like New York or London.
Let’s compare the income brackets and net worth of different classes to get a clearer picture of how your financial status might change once you’re living in France.
The different classes
- Upper class: 70,000 € and above (around $75,000 +) – High net worth individuals, often business owners or senior executives
- Middle class: 25,000 € to 40,000 € (around $27,000 to $43,000) – Average earners, professionals, teachers, or mid-level managers.
- Lower class: 16,800 € minimum wage (around $18,000) – Minimum wage earners, service workers, entry-level employees.
Visa eligibility: It's easier than you think!
If you are considering living in France long-term, you’ll likely need to apply for a French long-stay visa. One of the main requirements is proving that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay. Here’s where it gets interesting: the financial requirement for a French visa is roughly equivalent to France’s minimum wage, meaning that if you earn around $18,000 per year, you may qualify for a long-term visa.
This means that even if you fall within what would be considered the lower class in some countries, you could still meet the income requirement to live in France legally for an extended period.
Comparing with the middle class in France
For many expats, moving to France means living comfortably on a middle-class income. Let’s say you earn $40,000 per year, which comes to around 37,500 €. In France, this would place you within the middle class, which ranges between 25,000 € and 40,000 €.
When you compare your income to the average salaries in France, it’s easy to see how middle-class expats might enjoy a higher standard of living that they might expect. Additionally, France’s robust social services (such as affordable healthcare and education) mean that your money can go much further.
Key takeaway: You don't have to be rich to move to France
The main takeaway here is that you don’t need to be wealthy to live in France. With a modest income that meets the French visa requirement, you can legally move to France and live a comfortable life as an expat.
For instance, if you are earning what is considered a middle-class salary in your home country, it’s likely that you will fit in well with France’s middle class, and even those earning less will still be able to secure a visa.
To wrap it all up
When considering the economic classes in France, you may find that your financial situation places you in a better position that you thought. Even with a modest income, the cost of living in France, combined with the benefits of French social services, allow many expats to live comfortably. As long as you meet the visa requirements, you’ll be able to enjoy the rich culture and beauty that France has to offer.
Useful resources
- Long-stay visa requirements for France – Visit the website
- Cost of living in France – Visit the website.
Planning to move to France but confused about visas? Book your VIP Visa & Relocation consultation today. Our expert will answer all your questions and help you avoid any headaches or pitfalls.