As the calendar flips to February 2025, several changes are set to impact daily life in France. From adjustments to savings rates and energy prices to transportation costs and student benefits, these updates are relevant for expats living in France and anyone keeping an eye on news about France. Below, we break down the key changes coming this month.

Lower livret A interest rate
One of the most significant financial updates is the reduction of the Livret A interest rate. Effective February 1, the rate drops from 3% to 2.4%, following a proposal by the governor of the Bank of France, François Villeroy de Galhau. The Bank of France highlighted that this adjustment will help boost financing for social housing and local authorities, a move deemed necessary after observing positive trends over the past year.
This change marks the first decrease since early 2020, when the rate was slashed to 0.5%. For context, the last reduction exceeding 0.6 points occurred in 2009. Expats in France relying on Livret A for their savings will need to reconsider their investment strategies to maximise returns.
Electricity bill reduction
Good news awaits over 24 million households subscribed to EDF's tarif Bleu and the additional 4 million customers on market offers indexed to this regulated rate. Starting February 1, electricity bills will see an average 15% reduction. EDF has promised to inform subscribers about the impact on their bills at the beginning of the month, with adjustments to monthly payments expected as early as March.
However, not all customers will benefit equally. Approximately 10 million subscribers may face price increases due to rising taxes and regulatory changes. Customers with market offers up to 30% cheaper than the regulated rate will see their savings diminish as wholesale market prices stabilise.
Gas prices increases
For households using gas for heating and cooking, February will bring increased costs. The price for combined hot water and cooking rises from 0.14648 € per kWh in January to 0.14775 € in February. Heating rates are set to climb from 0.11751 € per kWh to 0.11877 €.
According to the Commission de Régulation de l'Énergie (CRE), the benchmark price now stands at 145.35 euros per MWh, inclusive of taxes. Expats living in France who rely on gas for their energy needs will need to budget accordingly for this hike.
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Higher toll prices
Starting February 1, highway toll rates will increase by an average of 0.92%. While this is lower than the hikes seen in 2018 and 2019, it follows years of financial pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. The increase has been presented as a balanced effort to maintain the purchasing power of French residents and travellers.
Tobacco price hikes
Smoking will become even more expensive than it already is in February 2025, as cigarette prices see further increases. Dunhill cigarettes will now cost 13.50 €, with some roll-your-own tobacco products like the 30g Fleurs du Pays packet seeing a 10-cent increase.
This follows price hikes in January, with some brands reaching up to 14.10 € per pack. The continued increase is part of an ongoing effort to reduce tobacco consumption in France.
What do these changes mean for expats in France?
For expats living in France, these updates present a mixed bag. The reduction in electricity bills is a welcome relief, particularly for those on regulated rates, while the increase in gas prices may require some budget adjustments. The drop in the Livret A interest rate will affect savers, prompting a reevaluation of financial strategies.
Expats with frequent travel needs should prepare for higher toll prices, and those who smoke will face rising costs. Whether you're an expat living in France or planning to move, staying informed about these changes will help you navigate the evolving landscape of daily life in the country.
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