Looking for Canadian Expats in Paris?

Every year, we publish one of the biggest global surveys among expats — asking them about various aspects of their life, from work to leisure. Learn what motivated our Canadian members to move abroad, what keeps them there, and what they struggle with or miss about home.

Paris can be easy for Canadians to enjoy from the first day. However, learning how everyday life works in France may take longer.

Explore the advantages of living in Paris and the small challenges Canadian residents can meet.

Pros of life in Paris

Culture and food are essential parts of everyday life. Buying bread from a local bakery, meeting friends in a cafe or finding new streets can make ordinary life enjoyable.

Health care works well if you know where to go. Once you understand which local online booking apps to use, you can easily find local doctors.

It is possible to feel comfortable without a car. You can easily reach many places by using public transport or getting around on foot.

A good location for traveling around Europe. With a quick train you can travel to any other city in France and nearby European destinations in a few hours.

Cons of life in Paris

Finding a new apartment can be stressful. Flats are often small with an extremely high rent. You need to be very quick with making decisions.

Bureaucracy can test your patience. Such things as forms, tax questions and official appointments may not always be simple.

Flats in summer can be surprisingly hot. Canadians are usually prepared for winter, but many Paris apartments don’t have air conditioning.

Being very polite can sometimes cause confusion. Canadians can say “sorry” after someone steps on their foot and then say sorry for apologizing, which is different from French people.

Where can I meet other Canadians in Paris?

If you would like to meet other Canadians in Paris, you can go to Le Sous Bock, at 49 Rue Saint-Honore in the 1st arrondissement. The Canadian Cultural Centre at 130 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore in the 8th arrondissement is another good place to visit. It hosts free exhibitions, concerts, films, talks, etc. connected to Canada and it is a good place to meet Canadians.

You can also join Association des Canadiennes à Paris. They host semi-regular events, and our InterNations events are also a great opportunity to meet Canadians in Paris. Our Newcomers’ Events are based on introducing newcomers to the community, which makes finding friends a whole lot easier than trying your luck in a bar.

Where do Canadians live in Paris?

Quite a few of our Canadian members live in the more international parts of town. Both international companies and opportunities for international socializing tend to be located in the center of the city. Here are some of the most popular parts of Paris:

Le Marais: Popular among young entrepreneurs, fashion designers, and influencers. Good walkability and packed with cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

The 16th Arrondissement: Quite for families, safe and close to parks and international schools. Areas such as Passy, Auteuil, and Exelmans are especially well known for their international community. Close to international schools, including the Canadian International School in Paris.

The 7th Arrondissement: Great for expats seeking an elegant and close to international institutions area. Good choice for people who want to live near the Eiffel Tower and central Paris.

How much money should I make to live in Paris?

The average salary for jobs in Paris is around 3,750-4,600 EUR per month (before taxes). If you’re making at least this amount, you can live comfortably here and afford a lot. However, if you have a family and kids to support, you might want to aim higher. Earning between 7,500-10,000 EUR gross per month is considered a good salary for a family.

Will I be able to survive in Paris without speaking French?

Paris is an international city that attracts many Canadian tourists, students and expats every year. It is possible to survive with no French, especially in central areas, but it can feel challenging over time. You will usually face the language barrier when you need to complete official paperwork, open a bank account, find a flat, see a doctor, or apply for jobs. However, learning a few basic phrases will make your daily life easier and help you feel more connected to the city.

If possible, treat your time in Paris as an opportunity to learn some French. There are many language schools, City of Paris courses for beginners or language apps that can help you improve in your own time and on your budget.

At InterNations events, you can meet other Canadians who understand the experience of adapting to life in France.

We’re not just in Paris! InterNations has lively communities in 420 cities around the globe.

So, if you’re thinking about relocating or are simply in the mood for a nice night out while traveling, InterNations is your go-to platform. As a member, you’re welcome to join events in any of our InterNations Communities.