SeattlevsParis
Overall
💰-9.3%
Seattle is 9.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-19.4%
Housing is 19.4% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒+7.3%
Food shopping 7.3% more
Comparing the cost of living between Seattle, United States and Paris, France reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Seattle is more affordable than Paris by approximately 9.3%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Seattle are higher than in Paris by 24%. A one-bedroom apartment in Seattle's city center costs around $2,518, while the same in Paris is approximately €1,388.
Dining out in Seattle costs about the same compared to Paris. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Seattle versus €15 in Paris.
Public transportation in Seattle is more expensive, with monthly passes at $99 compared to €89 in Paris.
Purchasing power in Seattle is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Paris.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Seattle can expect to spend approximately $735 per month (excluding rent), while in Paris, the same lifestyle would cost around €628. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,572 monthly in Seattle versus €2,199 in Paris. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Paris to Seattle, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Seattle to Paris requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Seattle
Paris
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seattle more expensive than Paris?
No, Seattle is approximately 9.3% cheaper than Paris. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Seattle compared to Paris?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 91% of your Paris salary when living in Seattle. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Paris, you'd need about $45,745 in Seattle for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Seattle and Paris?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 24%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Seattle offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Seattle provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Seattle if you prioritize earning potential, or Paris for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Seattle vs Paris?
In Seattle, a single person needs approximately $2,723 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,922. In Paris, these figures are €1,656 for singles and €4,352 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Seattle and Paris in 2026 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Paris to maintain your lifestyle from Seattle
Calculate Salary EquivalencePlanning Your Move? Get Global Health Insurance
Whether you're moving from Seattle to Paris or vice versa, SafetyWing provides comprehensive health insurance for expats and digital nomads.
- • Coverage in 180+ countries including United States and France
- • No home country restrictions
- • Monthly subscription from $45/month, cancel anytime
- • Covers COVID-19 and pre-existing conditions
Trusted by 100,000+ nomads worldwide
Transfer Money Between United States and France
Moving money from USD to EUR? Wise offers the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees - up to 8x cheaper than banks.
- • Real mid-market exchange rate, no hidden fees
- • Transfer to 80+ countries in 50+ currencies
- • Most transfers arrive in seconds
- • Trusted by 16+ million people worldwide
Fee-free first transfer up to $500
Related Comparisons
Stay Updated on Cost of Living Changes
Get monthly updates delivered to your inbox. We update data on the 1st of every month.