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Cost of Living in Bordeaux (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Bordeaux, France
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Bordeaux, France for an expat in 2026 averages €800–€1,000 per month for rent (1-br, chartrons/saint-pierre). Key costs include rent (1-br, chartrons/saint-pierre) (€800–€1,000), rent (1-br, la bastide/saint-michel) (€600–€800), groceries (€250–€350).
Bordeaux is a popular destination for expats relocating to France. Bordeaux has reinvented itself from a sleepy wine town into one of France's most dynamic cities. A UNESCO World Heritage center, booming tech scene (Ubisoft, Dassault, La French Tech), and the world's most famous wine region at your doorstep — all at 35–40% less than Paris. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, Chartrons/Saint-Pierre) | €800–€1,000 |
| Rent (1-BR, La Bastide/Saint-Michel) | €600–€800 |
| Groceries | €250–€350 |
| Transport (tram/bus monthly) | €45 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | €130–€180 |
| Private health insurance (mutuelle top-up) | €40–€80 |
| Dining out (2–3×/week) | €130–€220 |
| Entertainment & misc. | €100–€180 |
| Total (comfortable, central Bordeaux) | €1,600–€2,400 |
Bordeaux Quick Facts
Best For
Wine lovers, tech workers, families, creative professionals
Monthly Budget
€1,600–€2,400
1-BR Center Rent
€700–€1,000/mo
Internet Speed
~180 Mbps avg.
English Level
Moderate — French strongly preferred
Climate
Oceanic — mild winters, warm summers, avg. 13°C
Airport
BOD — 80+ direct routes
TGV to Paris
2 hours
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Bordeaux per month?
Monthly costs in Bordeaux depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, chartrons/saint-pierre) (€800–€1,000), rent (1-br, la bastide/saint-michel) (€600–€800), groceries (€250–€350). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Bordeaux affordable for expats?
Bordeaux is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Bordeaux?
Rent (1-BR, Chartrons/Saint-Pierre): €800–€1,000. Rent (1-BR, La Bastide/Saint-Michel): €600–€800