How Much Salary Do You Need to Afford a Home in Every Region of France?
Understanding the French Housing Market
France has a diverse real estate market, with property prices varying greatly by region. Factors such as location, size, and local demand all play a role in determining affordability. On average, house prices in France range from €1,500 per square meter in rural areas to over €10,000 per square meter in prime Parisian locations.
How Much Salary Do You Need to Buy a Home in France?
The general rule in France is that your monthly housing expenses should not exceed 33% of your gross monthly income. Based on this, let's break down the estimated income required to afford a home in different regions:
1. Paris & Île-de-France – The Expensive Capital
- Average price per m²: €10,500 (Paris) / €5,500 (suburbs)
- Salary needed: At least €7,000 per month to afford a modest apartment in Paris or €3,500+ per month for a suburban home.
2. Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur – Luxury by the Mediterranean
- Average price per m²: €4,500 - €7,000
- Salary needed: €4,500+ per month for a 100m² home.
3. Brittany & Normandy – Affordable Coastal Living
- Average price per m²: €2,500 - €3,500
- Salary needed: €2,500+ per month for a comfortable home.
4. Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Bordeaux) – Wine Country Charm
- Average price per m²: €3,000 - €5,000
- Salary needed: €3,500+ per month for a good-sized home.
5. Occitanie & Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes – A Balance of City and Countryside
- Average price per m²: €2,000 - €4,000
- Salary needed: €2,800+ per month.
6. Grand Est & Hauts-de-France – Budget-Friendly Choices
- Average price per m²: €1,500 - €2,500
- Salary needed: €2,000+ per month for a family-sized home.
Case Study
Can a Housewife and a Single-Income Household Afford a Home in Saint-Malo?
- Average price per m² in Saint-Malo: €3,500
- House price estimate (100m² home): €350,000
- Loan with 20% down payment: €70,000
- Mortgage needed: €280,000
- Estimated monthly payment (25-year loan at 3.5% interest): ~€1,400
- Required salary (33% rule): €4,200 per month
Saint-Malo, a picturesque coastal town in Brittany, is a dream location for many homebuyers. But can a household with only one income afford a home here?
If your husband's salary is above €4,200 per month, then buying a home in Saint-Malo is financially possible. However, with a lower income, options like a smaller house, moving to a nearby village, or increasing savings for a higher down payment could make it more achievable.
Fun Fact: Owning a Home in France Comes with Perks!
- Did you know that in France, homeowners benefit from low property taxes compared to other European countries? Plus, some regions offer financial aid or incentives for homebuyers, especially if you're investing in energy-efficient renovations.
- Non-EU citizens can purchase property in France. The process is the same as for EU nationals and French citizens. However, buying property does not automatically grant residency rights. If you plan to reside in France, you may need to apply for a long-stay visa or a residence permit.
- In 2025, the French government has introduced policies to support homebuyers:
- Expansion of the Interest-Free Loan (PTZ): Previously limited to first-time buyers in new-build properties within high-demand areas, the PTZ has been extended to all geographic zones and may include a wider variety of housing types. This aims to stimulate construction and improve access to homeownership.
- Increase in Social Housing Resource Ceilings: The income limits for accessing social housing have been increased by 3.5% for 2025, allowing more households to qualify for affordable housing options.
Final Thoughts
Buying a home in France depends on the region, your household income, and financing options. While Paris and the French Riviera demand higher salaries, many charming and affordable regions like Brittany, Normandy, and Grand Est offer great opportunities for single-income families. If you're dreaming of homeownership in France, planning your finances carefully and considering alternative locations can make your dream a reality!
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Read more:
💙 Buying a Home in France: 2024 Tax Updates and Advice for First-Time Buyers
💙 Understanding the French Tax System: A Guide for Expats (Updated for 2025)
