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How Much Does It Cost to Live in Strasbourg as a Student?
Strasbourg is one of France’s most popular student cities, home to the University of Strasbourg and several grandes écoles. But what is the cost of living in Strasbourg for students? On average, a student needs between €800 and €1,100 per month to cover all basic expenses including rent, food, transport, health insurance, and leisure. This guide breaks down each expense category with real figures and practical tips to help you budget effectively.
Accommodation Costs: The Biggest Expense
Housing is the largest part of any student budget. In Strasbourg, prices vary significantly depending on location, type of housing, and whether you live alone or share.
Rent for Different Types of Housing
- University halls of residence (CROUS): €250–€500 per month (often subsidized, includes utilities).
- Shared apartment (colocation): €350–€550 per person per month (excluding utilities).
- Studio apartment: €450–€700 per month (utilities extra).
- Private student residence: €500–€800 per month (all-inclusive).
Tip: Apply for CROUS accommodation early (usually from January for the following academic year). Sharing an apartment with other students can cut rent by 20–30%.
Utility Costs
Electricity, heating, water, and internet typically add €50–€100 per month. Some all-inclusive rents cover these, so check your lease.
Food and Groceries: Budget-Friendly Options
Strasbourg offers many affordable ways to eat well. A student can spend between €200 and €300 per month on food.
Grocery Shopping
- Supermarkets (Lidl, Aldi, Leclerc): €150–€200 per month for a balanced diet.
- Local markets: fresh produce at lower prices (e.g., Marché de la Gare, Marché Neudorf).
- University canteens (Resto U): €3.30 per meal (subsidized).
Tip: Cook at home and use the CROUS card for cheap lunches. Avoid eating out too often—a restaurant meal costs €12–€20.
Transportation: Getting Around Strasbourg
Strasbourg has an excellent public transport network (trams, buses, and trains). As a student, you can benefit from reduced fares.
Monthly Transport Costs
- CTS student pass (annual subscription): €27 per month (after annual payment of €324).
- Single tram ticket: €1.80.
- Bicycle: free if you own one; Vélhop rental from €5/day or €30/year.
Tip: The annual CTS student pass is the best value. You can also walk or bike—Strasbourg is very bike-friendly.
Health Insurance and Medical Costs
All students in France must have health insurance. For EU students, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) covers basic needs. Non-EU students pay €103–€217 per year for the compulsory student social security (CVEC).
- CVEC (Contribution de Vie Étudiante et de Campus): €103 per year (2025).
- Top-up insurance (mutuelle): €20–€50 per month (optional but recommended).
Tip: Register for social security immediately after enrollment. For non-EU students, the CVEC is paid online before visa validation.
Other Essential Expenses
Mobile Phone and Internet
- Mobile plan: €10–€20 per month (e.g., Free, SFR, Bouygues).
- Home internet: €20–€30 per month (often shared in colocation).
Course Materials and Books
- Photocopies and printing: €5–€10 per month.
- Textbooks: €50–€100 per semester (buy used or borrow from library).
Leisure and Entertainment
- Cinema: €5–€9 (student discount).
- Gym membership: €20–€40 per month.
- Eating out/drinks: €30–€60 per month.
Tip: Many museums are free for students under 26. Look for student nights at bars and clubs.
Sample Monthly Budget for a Student in Strasbourg
| Expense Category | Low Budget (€) | Average Budget (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | 350 | 450 |
| Utilities | 50 | 80 |
| Food & groceries | 200 | 250 |
| Transport | 27 | 27 |
| Health insurance | 10 | 30 |
| Mobile phone | 10 | 15 |
| Course materials | 10 | 20 |
| Leisure & misc. | 30 | 60 |
| Total | 687 | 932 |
How to Save Money as a Student in Strasbourg
Here is a practical checklist to keep your cost of living in Strasbourg manageable:
- ✅ Apply for CROUS housing early.
- ✅ Cook at home and use university canteens.
- ✅ Buy the annual CTS student pass.
- ✅ Use student discounts (ISIC card, Carte Culture).
- ✅ Buy used textbooks or borrow from the library.
- ✅ Use free or cheap leisure activities (parks, free museum days).
- ✅ Share subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify) with friends.
- ✅ Open a French bank account with a student offer (often fee-free).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cost of Living in Strasbourg for Students
Is Strasbourg expensive for students compared to other French cities?
Strasbourg is moderately expensive. It is cheaper than Paris or Lyon but slightly more expensive than cities like Montpellier or Grenoble. Rent is the main difference.
How much does a student need per month in Strasbourg?
A student typically needs between €700 and €1,100 per month. The lower end is possible with shared housing and careful budgeting.
Can I work part-time while studying in Strasbourg?
Yes, international students can work up to 964 hours per year (about 20 hours per week). The minimum wage (SMIC) is about €11.65 per hour. Common jobs include tutoring, hospitality, and retail.
Are there scholarships for international students in Strasbourg?
Yes, the French government offers the Eiffel scholarship, and the University of Strasbourg has its own grants. Erasmus+ and bilateral agreements also provide funding.
What is the cheapest accommodation option in Strasbourg?
CROUS halls of residence are the cheapest, starting at €250 per month. Shared apartments are the next best option.
Do I need to pay for health insurance as a non-EU student?
Yes, non-EU students must pay the CVEC (€103/year) and enroll in the French social security system. A top-up mutuelle is optional but recommended.
Final Practical Advice for Managing Your Student Budget in Strasbourg
Managing your cost of living in Strasbourg for students comes down to planning. Start by applying for housing as early as possible. Use the CTS annual pass for transport, eat at university canteens, and take advantage of student discounts. Keep track of your spending with a budgeting app. Strasbourg is a wonderful city to study in—with smart financial choices, you can enjoy it without breaking the bank.
Ready to study in Strasbourg? Calculate your budget, apply for scholarships, and get your student visa in order. Bonne chance!
Photo by Aurélien Dockwiller on Unsplash
How early should I apply for CROUS accommodation? The article says from January—is that for the following September?
Yes, applications typically open in January for the academic year starting in September. Apply as early as possible because demand is high. Check the CROUS website for exact dates.
Is the €800-€1,100 estimate realistic for someone living in a shared apartment?
Yes, that range is realistic for a shared apartment. Rent would be around €350-€550, plus utilities (€50-€100), food (€200-€300), transport (€27), health insurance (€8-€20), and miscellaneous (€50-€100). Total falls within €800-€1,100.
Can you clarify the CTS student pass? Is it €27 per month if paid annually?
Yes, the annual subscription costs €324, which works out to €27 per month. You pay the full amount upfront, but it’s the cheapest option. A monthly pass without annual commitment costs more.
I’m considering bringing my bike. Is cycling safe in Strasbourg?
Absolutely. Strasbourg is one of France’s most bike-friendly cities with extensive bike lanes and flat terrain. Cycling is safe and convenient, and you can combine it with trams if needed.
Thanks for this guide—very helpful! One question: how much should I budget for leisure activities like going out or cinema?
Leisure is flexible, but a reasonable budget is €50-€100 per month. Student discounts are common: cinema tickets around €5-€7, museum passes often free with student ID. Many bars and clubs offer happy hours. You can adjust based on your lifestyle.
Are there any additional costs for international students, like visa fees or mandatory insurance?
Non-EU students pay the CVEC (€103/year) and must have health coverage. Visa fees vary by country but are separate. Also, some universities require a French bank account, which may have small fees. Budget an extra €100-€200 for these.
Great breakdown! I’m an EU student so the EHIC covers basic health, but should I still get a mutuelle?
It’s recommended. While EHIC covers basic care, a mutuelle (€20-€50/month) covers gaps like dental, vision, and hospital extras. Many students find it worthwhile.