Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Toulouse (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Toulouse, France
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Toulouse, France for an expat in 2026 averages €600–€800 per month for rent (1-br, city center). Key costs include rent (1-br, city center) (€600–€800), rent (1-br, outside center) (€450–€650), groceries (€220–€320).
Toulouse is a popular destination for expats relocating to France. Toulouse is France's fourth-largest city and the undisputed capital of European aerospace — Airbus's global headquarters, the French space agency CNES, and thousands of high-tech engineering jobs call this pink-brick city home. Known as 'La Ville Rose' for its distinctive terracotta architecture, Toulouse combines serious industry with a youthful energy driven by 130,000+ university students, a thriving food scene, and a quality of life that runs roughly 40% cheaper than Paris. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, city center) | €600–€800 |
| Rent (1-BR, outside center) | €450–€650 |
| Groceries | €220–€320 |
| Transport (Tisséo monthly pass) | €50 |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | €120–€170 |
| Private health insurance (mutuelle) | €40–€80 |
| Dining out (2–3×/week) | €120–€180 |
| Entertainment & misc. | €90–€160 |
| Total (comfortable, central Toulouse) | €1,400–€2,000 |
Toulouse Quick Facts
Best For
Engineers, aerospace professionals, students, families
Monthly Budget
€1,400–€2,000
1-BR Center Rent
€600–€800/mo
Internet Speed
~200 Mbps avg.
English Level
Moderate in tech companies
Climate
300 sunny days, hot summers
Airport
TLS — 80+ direct routes
Key Employer
Airbus global HQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Toulouse per month?
Monthly costs in Toulouse depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, city center) (€600–€800), rent (1-br, outside center) (€450–€650), groceries (€220–€320). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Toulouse affordable for expats?
Toulouse 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 Toulouse?
Rent (1-BR, city center): €600–€800. Rent (1-BR, outside center): €450–€650