As a country, France is considered to be one of the least expensive European countries in which to live. The notable exception to this rule is the Paris metropolitan area, where prices are roughly 20 percent higher than outside Paris. According to a recent study, Paris’ cost of living was ranked 13th among the world’s major cities and roughly on par with New York City, the most expensive city in the United States.

Grocery prices in France are moderate. One can expect to pay more for groceries than in the United States, but less than in England or Germany. Most grocery shopping is done in supermarkets and hypermarkets, located in and near most cities and towns in France. Some of the most well-known French supermarket and hypermarket brands include Carrefour, Géant, and Auchan.

This is just a sample of what you'll find in the complete France guide.