The Cheapest Areas to Live in Paris


 

Updated by Vanessa M in September 2023.

Paris is known for being one of the most glamorous and one of the most expensive cities in the world. And that may be true – especially when it comes to things like housing! But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t bargains to be found if you know where to look. Keep reading to discover the cheapest areas to live in Paris. 

How do housing prices work in Paris?

Generally speaking, the central arrondissements of Paris (1-9) are the most desirable, and thus command the highest prices. The same is true for the ‘upscale’ residential and more family-oriented districts like the 8th and the 16th which have more family-sized apartments (tougher to find in the center).

However, the further East or North from the center you go, the quicker prices tend to drop. Whether you’re renting or buying, there are a few important aspects to take into account, and ones that largely affect the price you’ll pay: location, size, modernity, and of course the proximity to transport.

Click here for information on where to Stay in Paris: The 15 Best Neighbourhoods in Paris

The 10th Arrondissement

Image via Google Maps

Straddling the border between the hip Marais district and Paris’ Eastern arrondissements, the up and coming 10th district is one of the cheapest areas to live in Paris. But that’s certainly not to say that it’s undesirable or without charm. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. 

While being home to two of the city’s major train stations (Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est), the 10th is also home to the charming Canal Saint-Martin as well as a whole host of cool eateries, hip boutiques, and trendy bars. 

The 10th is also a true melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. This area has both prominent immigrant and student populations, drawn in by the centrality and lower costs of living. And over the past decade, this district is becoming more and more popular with young couples and families, who appreciate the diversity and lower prices there. A one bedroom apartment goes for €1,200 on average.

Apartment purchase prices in France are calculated on an overall basis, but also include the price per square meter. This is generally a good indication of how expensive (or cheap) a certain area is. The average price per square meter in the 10th hovers around €9,000. And while that may seem astronomical, it’s a bargain compared to the sky-high prices in other Parisian neighbourhoods such as the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area where the price per square meter climbs to a cool €21,000. 

The 20th Arrondissement

Situated on the Eastern border of Paris, the 20th arrondissement has exploded in popularity during recent years. Previously a decidedly immigrant and working-class neighbourhood, the district has taken on a new personality over the past decade or so, lending itself to increased desirability. 

Once a no-go zone, the 20th has transformed into a cool and edgy place to live. And not to mention one of the cheapest areas to live in Paris! Nowadays, the vast assortment of non-traditional flats, lofts, and artists’ studios in this area have made the 20th a haven for artists, musicians, students, young families, and those just hoping for a little more space amidst the bustling city. 

It should also be noted that the cheapest areas to live in Paris also depend on other costs of living: food/groceries, basic amenities, and an outing. The 20th has retained a lot of its working-class nature, and is great for this reason. Affordable cafés and brasseries abound, groceries are more than fairly-priced (especially if you hit the local farmer’s market) and rent is definitely reasonable. 

All that being said, a simple one bedroom flat here will run you €1,000 a month on average. And the price per square meter to buy comes out to €7,200 on average – making the 20th easily the cheapest area to live in Paris!

The 13th Arrondissement

Image via Google Maps

Situated in the Southeast portion of the city, the 13th arrondissement is truly a unique part of Paris. Bordering the Latin Quarter on one side and the suburbs on the other, the 13th has long been one of the city’s more industrial neighbourhoods. It’s here that you’ll find Paris’ impressive Chinatown, as well as plenty of futuristic buildings, high-rises, and street art.

Of course, you can find classic Parisian architecture here too, it all depends on the exact neighborhood you choose. In Paris, everything can change from one block to the next – almost making you feel as if you’re in a different city all together!

The 13th arrondissement is central, safe, and due to the high-rises, actually offers a lot more housing than many others. And for very reasonable prices. Actually, a simple one-bedroom flat in the 13th goes for around €1,250, while the average price per square meter is €9,700 if you’re looking to buy. All in all one of the most affordable areas in the city!

The 18th arrondissement

The Parisian 18th arrondissement is noted for its different and distinctive districts. It encompasses a broad area in the city’s northern outskirts and contains both more affluent and more cheap areas. Some of these are Montmartre which is the most well-known district in the 18th arrondissement.

Sami Mlouhi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It is famous for its beautiful streets, the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica, and its creative history. While Montmartre may be rather touristic and offers some higher-priced apartments with amazing views, if you go further away from the main tourist neighborhoods, you can still find inexpensive options. 

Another option is La Chapelle which is a bustling and culturally diverse area with a mix of residential and business spaces. Rental prices in this area are often lower than in other sections of Paris.

La Goutte d’Or is another cheap area that boasts a lively environment and is noted for its North African influence. While it may not have the same level of elegance as Montmartre, it does provide more affordable living possibilities.

Joinville-le-Pont

Joinville-le-Pont is well-known for its tranquil and quiet living environment. It stands in stark contrast to central Paris’s lively and densely populated regions. The riverfront setting adds to the tranquillity, making it an appealing alternative for people seeking a more peaceful way of life.

Chabe01, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Marne River, which runs through Joinville-le-Pont, provides picturesque vistas as well as chances for outdoor activities including leisurely walks along the riverbanks and picnics in the parks.

The natural beauty of the area adds to its allure. One of the main attractions of Joinville-le-Pont is its reduced rent pricing when compared to several other central Paris areas. This makes it a cost-effective option for individuals or families wishing to save money on accommodation while being close to the city.

The 13th Arrondissement

The 13th arrondissement in the city’s south should not be overlooked: it is one of only three in the city where average asking prices remain below €8,000 per m2. It is most renowned for its universities and having one of Paris’ two Chinatowns. However, it rarely gets a look-in as a destination for affordable property buying and investment with a long-term perspective.

Get more information on cost of Living in Paris: Everything You Need to Know here

Mark Jaroski, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This might partially be owing to the fact it offers less in the form of bars, cafes, clubs, and culture to young, creative outgoing types than similarly priced 18th-20th arrondissements, and therefore it figures less in the discourse about ‘where to be’.

Gentilly

Gentilly is mostly a residential neighborhood with a calm and tranquil feel. It provides a respite from the hustle and bustle of central Paris, making it an appealing alternative for those looking for a more peaceful living environment.

Gentilly’s comparatively low rent prices in comparison to many other areas of Paris are one of its main draws. While housing rates might still vary depending on criteria such as the type of accommodation (apartment, house, studio) and location inside Gentilly, it frequently offers better value for money than more central areas.

Bagnolet

Bagnolet is noted for its affordability in comparison to some of Paris’s more central neighborhoods making it an enticing alternative for people and families looking for affordable housing. Bagnolet is located just outside of Paris to the east. Because of this excellent position, inhabitants have quick access to the city center.

Chabe01, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Its proximity to Paris makes it an ideal choice for individuals who work or study in the city but are searching for more economical living arrangements. Bagnolet is frequently regarded as one of the more cheap suburbs of Paris and this makes it an appealing option for individuals or families looking for more affordable housing options than the higher rents commonly found in the city center.

Clichy

One of the primary things that attracts many individuals to Clichy is its lower rent pricing when compared to the city center of Paris. Finding cheap accommodation in the city center, where real estate costs are often higher, can be difficult.

Clichy on the other hand, allows inhabitants to experience the benefits of living near Paris without the expensive rental fees associated with core Parisian neighborhoods. Furthermore, Clichy has its own distinct charm.

I, Parisette, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The town features a combination of residential neighborhoods, park spaces, and local businesses, which fosters a sense of community while also providing inhabitants with daily necessities such as stores, restaurants, and schools.

Clichy is an appealing option for people or families who want to enjoy the dynamic environment and opportunities of Paris while staying within their budget.

Learn how to How to Rent an Apartment in Paris here

Aubervilliers

One of Aubervilliers’ distinguishing traits is its reputation for providing more affordable homes than the city of Paris itself. Its affordability has made it an appealing choice particularly for young professionals and individuals or families looking for a cost-effective living option close to the city.

Chabe01, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aubervilliers is recognized for its diversified population, with people from numerous ethnic backgrounds living there. This diversity contributes to the suburb’s vibrant and multicultural atmosphere.

Well, now you have a better idea about some of the cheapest areas to live in Paris! Which one would you choose? 

See you soon in Paris!

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