Being a Remote Worker in Paris: Is it Worth it?

Being a Remote Worker in Paris: Is it Worth it?

As a remote worker in Paris, I feel I can do the answer to the question posed pretty solid justice. Working remotely in Paris is, in my opinion, one of the best experiences to give yourself if your lifestyle and work-type permits it.

Below I’ll dive into the advantages and disadvantages of this venture, along with everything you need to know. 

Are there co-working spaces in Paris?

Yes, plenty. If you’re the type of remote worker who still requires a physical office space in order to be productive, you’ll find co-working hubs across the city that are designed to offer just that. MOZAIK and Greenspace are the better known ones, but you’ll also find a handful of We Work spaces, too. 

We Work, Paris – by We Work – Uploaded by them

Top 5 Cafes to Visit in Paris with a Laptop

These establishments offer a variety of options to remote workers. You can opt to rent a private space for as long as needed, or you can be more of a day-visitor and just make use of the common areas that still get you access to super fast WiFi, facilities and (usually) coffee and snacks. 

What if you want to really work from home? 

To this I say no problem. Paris is advanced enough that WiFi is pretty strong no matter where you land up staying. It’s a non-negotiable amenity for all types of accommodation, so you won’t struggle to find places with perfectly suitable connection for your work needs. Fiber is also widely available. 

With that, one also learns to ask for specific speeds before booking. I’ve landed up in places where the download speed was wonderful, until I tried an upload and the estimated time was 23 years. Ask beforehand; hosts will generally be upfront about what they can offer. 

By Mikey Harris – Unsplash

How to Choose Your Accommodation in Paris

When the home office gets a bit monotonous, know that a short stroll to any nearby cafe will bring you to reliable WiFi, delicious treats and bottomless coffee if needed. So you get the best of both worlds in this regard. Worth mentioning, since there are a lot of cities in which corner cafes are not equipped for people who need to work online. 

The Timezone Makes Paris a Great Place to Work From 

Paris falls in the CET timezone, which means its central in the bigger scheme of the working world. This means that it is a great option for remote workers from all corners of the globe. 

by Marvin Meyer – Unsplash

If your work takes place in a US timezone, you’ll enjoy your mornings off and start around 3pm and work into the evening. If you’re working on an Asian timezone, you’ll have early mornings and be done with work before a lot of Parisians have even had lunch. 

If you’re already working CET timezone, then there is no adjustment at all — it’s great!

French Tourist Visas Are Generous in Duration

The Schengen visa entry permits travelers to be in France for 90 consecutive days out of every 180 days in a year. This means one can settle into Paris for a good 3 months and really get into the swing of things. 

3 months is ample time to embrace the Parisian lifestyle and experience life like a local, while working remotely. It will also give you opportunity to assess if this is a city you would like to gain a longer permit for, or if you’re ready to move on to the next destination.

Transport in Paris

Paris is known for having one of the most efficient and extensive public transport options on the continent. More than this, using it is affordable, which means digital nomads have no need to fuss renting other modes of transport to get around. 

by romain passelande – Unsplash

Transport in Paris: What You Need to Know

More that this, Paris’ different arrondissements tend to become like little ecosystems in which locals living in them are hesitant to venture out of. You’ll have your local eateries, coffee shops, bakeries, bars and entertainment all within walking distance of your accommodation — why even get on a train when you can move on foot? 

Weather in Paris

Paris has 4 distinct seasons, that much is true. But when compared to nearby cities, Paris’ weather patterns are pretty mild and manageable. Winters bring the chill, but they’re not as debilitating as what goes down in Belgium or Germany next door. 

by Anthony DELANOIX – Unsplash

Weather in Paris in May

Summers in Paris are also wonderful. There will be a few days of intense heat, and then the rest of the season is mild and pleasant, which you’ll be grateful for considering the lack of beach in the city of lights. 

Disadvantages to Remote Working in Paris

The most obvious disadvantage to being a remote worker in Paris is that there won’t be much opportunity to save money while you’re out here. Paris is not a cheap destination. From food to accommodation to entertainment, the bills rack up, and if you want to enjoy your time in the French capital then there is no sense in trying to limit oneself. 

Cost of Living in Paris: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re more interested in France than you are set on Paris, then there are other cities around the country where your spending won’t necessarily be as high. Even so, cost of living is high throughout this country so what you save will be minimal.