The True Cost of Living as a Single Woman in France

Your curiosity about the cost of living as a spinster in France prompted me to delve into the details. The term 'spinster' has a somewhat archaic connotation, but in France, it's perfectly relevant. The French term is 'vieille fille,' which simply means an unmarried woman.

General Living Costs

The cost of living in France is multifaceted, with varying expenses depending on the city or town you choose to call home. While Paris is the darling of many, it's worth noting that 'the rest of France' often offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to the capital.

Let's break down the minimum costs for a single individual. The RSA (Revenu de Solidarité Active) is the lowest income, amounting to about 465€ per month. This is enough to prevent starvation, but not much more.

The minimum legal salary in France is around 1100€ per month. These figures can vary outside of Paris, which is often more expensive, especially for housing.

Everyday Expenses

Item Price (€) Chicken 7 Chicken Breast 12 Turkey Leg 5 Beef (cheap cut) 5 Beef (steak) 20 Sliced Ham for Sandwiches 12 Baguette 0.95 Croissant 0.75

And for a little indulgence: a cafe cappei in the morning usually costs around 2€.

Food and Combo Deals

Last night, a group of friends enjoyed a pizza, 2 beers, and a coffee, totaling 15€. Cafes in France offer various combination deals (formules) to make dining out even more cost-effective.

A 'Greedy Tea' combo, which includes a salad and a beverage, can be slightly more expensive, but you can also choose cheaper combos like the 'Today's Special.'

At the local bakery, a baguette is 0.95€, and a croissant is 0.75€. While these prices might seem steep if you're used to purchasing them in bulk or from other countries, the quality and freshness make it worth the cost.

Accommodation

Housing can vary widely based on location. In a rural area, you can find decent accommodation for around 500€ per month, which is quite affordable. However, this cost is not representative of what you would pay in Paris or other large cities.

For insurance, you'll pay around 45€ per month for comprehensive coverage, including your car. This usually includes a basic legal minimum insurance for your vehicle. Other monthly expenses like water and electricity run about 40€ for a savvy household.

Healthcare

The French healthcare system is a beacon of pride for many. If you're a foreigner, you can expect to pay around 25€ for a consultation with your family doctor. A full X-ray for your back might set you back 80€, and a MRI of your spine will be around 100€. A visit to a specialized doctor costs 50€, while a dental filling can be around 80€.

Emergency and Street Food

Emergency medical assistance in France, including trips to the ER, is mostly free. Ambulance medical emergencies are often provided by firefighters, who operate as medical professionals. In Paris and Marseille, firefighters are military, a testament to the tradition of emergency services in France.

Street food, such as a kebab, is around 4.50€, and a kebab with fries will run you 6€. These options are cheap and delicious, making them a favorite among locals.

Domestic Expenses

Living costs can include internet access at home, which often includes unlimited phone calls and frequently includes international calls to the US and India. The monthly cost for this is around 40€. For your mobile phone, you'll pay 10€ per month for unlimited SMS, unlimited landline calls, 2 hours of mobile call time, and 10GB of data. Gasoline costs approximately 5€ per gallon.

Conclusion

Life as a single woman in France can be both enjoyable and affordable, especially if you choose not to live in Paris. The cost of living can vary significantly based on your location and lifestyle. Whether you're a student, a freelancer, or salaried employee, France offers a diverse range of living options, each with its unique set of expenses.

Feel free to ask any further questions or seek more information on specific aspects of the cost of living in France as a spinster or single woman. Happy exploring!