Over 40 Years, the French Earn More but Can Afford Less 0 17

An interesting study released recently in Paris shows how the lives of ordinary French people have changed over the past 40 years.

The grandparents of modern French people earned less 40 years ago but could afford more. And although the average salary has increased, the cost of housing, rent, and the cost of living in general have risen even faster.

In 1986, the average salary of a French person was 75,000 francs per year (~€17,500). Today, the average salary in France is ~€31,000. +71%.

Housing in 1986 (a 3-room apartment of 75m2) cost on average 500,000 francs (~€76,000). Today - €350,000. +360%.

The consumer basket: 1986 - 450 francs (~€69), 2026 - €295. +327%.

Rent for a 2-room apartment: 1986 - 1,600 francs (~€244), 2026 - €1,100. +350%.

Socialism is costly for France: France's GDP per capita is below the average European level.

France is slowly but surely continuing its economic decline due to gigantic public spending and high taxation.

Net, after all social contributions and taxes, a worker receives about €2,700–€2,800 per month.

Income Structure in France

Minimum wage (SMIC): set at €1,823–€1,850 gross (around €1,440 net).

Median salary: is around €2,200 net. This means that exactly half of the population earns more than this amount, while the other half earns less.

Executives and highly qualified specialists: earn on average from €4,600 net per month.

Taxes and deductions. France has a progressive tax system. After deducting social payments (about 20–22%) and income tax, the amount left "in hand" can vary significantly depending on income size and family coefficient.

Cost of living. For a comfortable life for one person in small towns, about €2,000–€2,300 per month is required. In Paris, due to high rental prices, about €3,300–€3,500 is necessary for comfortable living.