Experiencing Paris: A Comparative Overview of Living in Paris vs. New York City and London

For years, I have lived in diverse global cities including London, near New York City, and now in Paris since 2013. From my personal experience and observations, I can confidently say that living in Paris offers a unique set of advantages and challenges compared to other major global cities like New York City and London, England.

Paris vs. New York City and London

One of the most noticeable differences between Paris and New York City or London is the size of the city center. Paris has a more compact city center, allowing for easy movement between neighborhoods. The extensive subway system in Paris, although old, is functional and preferred by both tourists and locals. Meanwhile, private transportation in New York and London can be more expensive and time-consuming.

Merchandising and business hours in Paris are earlier compared to New York City, but Parisians have a unique way of enjoying life. They prefer to linger at pubs and restaurants, often eating late. This casual dining culture also contributes to the vibrant nightlife in Paris, with numerous nightclubs, similar to what can be found in New York City and London.

Regarding work culture, French people tend to have longer lunches, a stark contrast to the fast-paced working culture in New York City. This emphasis on leisure and quality of life is just one of the many cultural differences that shape the Parisian experience.

Lifestyle and Customary Differences

Lifestyle differences are also significant when comparing Paris to New York City and London. For instance, on Sundays, Parisians typically enjoy themselves in parks like Bois de Boulogne or Bois de Vincennes, whereas individuals in New York and London might be more actively involved in work or leisure activities. Parisians, in general, walk more and use bikes and scooters frequently, further integrating into the city's unique ambiance.

Language and Cultural Vibe

Another major difference is the language and cultural vibe. While English is spoken in New York City and London, Parisians converse in French. The cities have distinct personalities rooted in their historical architecture and cultures. While Paris and London exude an 'old-world' charm, New York often pulses with a more contemporary feel. All three cities have robust public transportation systems, but New York's might be considered less user-friendly.

Living in Paris: An Insight

Since moving to Paris in November 2019, my experience has been transformative. I live in the heart of Paris and work for the state electricity company, EDF, in the renewable energy offshore wind farms division. Paris is renowned for its great food, arts and culture, but I will delve into a few aspects that truly stand out:

Medical System: France boasts an exemplary national health service, with large hospitals in Paris. The Doctolib app is incredibly convenient for scheduling appointments. Public hospitals excel in handling emergencies and major surgeries, while private clinics often handle consultative roles. The healthcare system is largely state-funded, ensuring wide access to high-quality medical care.

Labor Laws: French labor laws protect employees, offering generous vacation entitlements and flexible working hours. Notably, I benefit from 35-hour workweeks and receive 25 annual vacations plus an additional 10 days of RTT (Réduction du temps de travail). On the downside, maternity leave is limited to 16 weeks, with only 11 days for fathers – in comparison, Germany offers much more generous parental leave.

Housing Market: The housing market in Paris is notoriously challenging and extremely expensive. Finding a suitable apartment often requires months of effort. Despite assistance from Parisian relocation companies, securing a decent apartment is no easy feat, with many substandard and diminutive options available. The cost of renting a 40-45 m2 apartment in a good district ranges from €1500 to €2000 monthly. Despite these challenges, I found a 56 m2 one-bedroom apartment in the 17th district for €1700 all-inclusive.

Cultural and Social Aspects: Parisian life is filled with cultural and social events. Despite the housing and work challenges, the city offers rich intellectual experiences and a vibrant social scene. French classes, parties, and cultural events keep me engaged. However, it is important to keep in mind that moving to a new city always comes with its own set of adjustments and challenges.

Final Thoughts: Despite the difficulties, I have found Paris to be more appealing than any city I have previously lived in. The city's rich history, cultural offerings, and unique lifestyle make it a standout destination. As I continue to navigate the various aspects of living in Paris, I remain excited about the journey ahead.