Living and working in France: Your move made easy with KOCH Moving Logistics

France fascinates with an impressive blend of Mediterranean lifestyle, vibrant metropolises and one of the highest qualities of life in Europe. For many emigrants, moving to the Grande Nation becomes an exciting career step – and KOCH Moving Logistics stands by your side as a reliable partner. Discover what makes living and working in France so special.

France ranks among the largest and most significant economies in the world. The country is a leader in sectors such as aerospace, luxury goods, automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and renewable energies. Paris, as a global economic centre and the seat of many international corporations as well as the OECD, is particularly attractive for expats. Thanks to EU freedom of movement, access to the French labour market for Germans is completely straightforward.

The French labour market offers German skilled professionals excellent prospects, especially in technical and digital professions as well as in the healthcare sector. France currently recognises 95 occupations with critical labour shortages, particularly in the construction, manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, transport and domestic care sectors. The average gross salary is around €39,582 per year (Passeport Talent threshold). The statutory minimum wage (SMIC) from January 2026 is €12.02 per hour or €1,823.03 gross per month. Particularly good career opportunities exist in Paris and the Île‑de‑France region, as well as in the dynamic metropolises of Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux and Nice. French work culture is characterised by a good work‑life balance, appreciation of creativity and a strong emphasis on social security.

Employees in France have a statutory minimum holiday entitlement of 30 working days (5 weeks) per year, calculated on the basis of 2.5 days of leave per month worked. Main holiday is generally to be taken between 1 May and 31 October, with at least 12 consecutive working days falling within this period. The statutory weekly working time is 35 hours, although many collective agreements provide for different arrangements.

France is a country of great cultural diversity. French culture has historically been shaped by Celtic, Roman and Germanic influences. The country is world‑famous for its exquisite cuisine (baguette, croissant, foie gras, cheese, wine), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cultural highlights include Bastille Day on 14 July with the grand military parade on the Champs‑Élysées, the grape harvest festivals in autumn, the Cannes Film Festival and the Christmas markets in Alsace. At the same time, France is a haven of art and culture with world‑renowned museums such as the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay and the Centre Pompidou in Paris, as well as numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Mont‑Saint‑Michel, the banks of the Seine and the Loire châteaux.

France offers a high quality of life, characterised by excellent healthcare, a good education system and a rich cultural infrastructure. The cost of living is slightly above the German level, with rental prices in Paris and on the Côte d'Azur being significantly more expensive than in other regions. For a single person, monthly living expenses (including rent) are about €1,500, and for a family of four about €4,350. In Paris, the average rent per square metre is about €32, while medium‑sized cities are at €7 to €8. A Navigo monthly pass for public transport in Paris costs €90.80, the annual pass €998.80.

French work culture places great importance on politeness and formal manners. Greeting with a firm handshake is customary, and for repeat meetings, the "bise" (cheek kiss) may also be used depending on the region and closeness of the relationship. Unlike in Germany, communication is often more indirect, and great importance is placed on refined expression. Punctuality is expected, but not handled as strictly as in Germany – a delay of five to ten minutes is generally tolerated. Business meetings are well structured, but often begin with a little personal conversation.

The French transport system is excellently developed. The state railway company SNCF operates a dense network of high‑speed trains (TGV) connecting the major cities of France as well as connections to Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy and Spain. In Paris, the public transport network with 16 metro lines, 5 RER lines, 8 tram lines and an extensive bus network is one of the largest in the world. From 1 May 2026, paper tickets on buses and trams will be completely abolished, so switching to digital tickets is recommended. The motorway network is also very well developed, and many cities have established low‑emission zones (ZFE) that prohibit entry to vehicles with high pollutant emissions.

Living in France can vary greatly depending on the region. From elegant Parisian apartments to sun‑drenched villas on the Côte d'Azur to rural estates in Provence or Normandy, there are numerous options. Rental prices in Paris are the highest, averaging €900–1,200 for a one‑bedroom apartment in the city centre, while cities such as Lyon or Marseille offer cheaper alternatives from about €1,300 for a two‑bedroom apartment. When searching for accommodation, proof of income (the last three payslips) and proof of identity are generally required. The deposit is a maximum of one month's rent for unfurnished apartments and a maximum of two months' rent for furnished apartments. Household insurance is compulsory in France. KOCH Moving Logistics supports you in navigating the French property market.

KOCH Moving Logistics supports you with your move to France with comprehensive services tailored to your needs. From planning to execution, our team ensures that your move runs smoothly, so you can focus on what matters most: your new life and work in France.

• Personal advice: Individual solutions for your move.
• Logistics expertise: Efficient planning and implementation.
• Local network: Support with integration in France.

KOCH Moving Logistics not only offers standardised moving services but also places special emphasis on personal advice and tailor‑made solutions. Our experts are on hand at every stage of the moving process to ensure that all your needs are met. We help you to quickly find your feet in your new surroundings and offer support with administrative matters, such as registration with the prefecture (obtaining your social security number) and opening a bank account.

Experience the smooth transition to your new adventure with the comprehensive service of KOCH Moving Logistics. Whether it's packing your belongings or organising your new home, we are here for you. Contact us and start your move to France today!