France for Families: Best Cities for Pakistani Expats Raising Kids Abroad

France is an excellent destination for Pakistani expat families seeking a high quality of life, strong job opportunities, and world-class education for their children. With its well-developed infrastructure, diverse cultural landscape, and welcoming communities, France offers a comfortable home away from home.

For Pakistani families, choosing the right city is essential. Factors such as education quality, cost of living, job prospects, community support, and safety play a crucial role in deciding where to settle. In this guide, we explore the best cities in France for Pakistani families and provide helpful tips for a smooth transition.

What Pakistani Families Look for in a French City

Pakistani expats in France seek cities that offer stability, comfort, and a good quality of life. Choosing the right city depends on factors like education, cost of living, and job opportunities.

Education: Good Schools and Universities for Children

Pakistani expats prioritize quality education for their children. France offers free public schooling and private international schools with English-language options. Many families choose bilingual institutions aligned with British or American curricula.

For higher education, France has some of the best universities in Europe, including Sorbonne University, University of Lyon, and University of Strasbourg. These institutions provide globally recognized degrees that open doors to excellent career opportunities.

Cost of Living: Affordable Housing and Everyday Expenses

Living costs differ across France; Paris is pricey, but other cities offer affordable housing and necessities.

• Housing Costs: Rent is the biggest expense for most families. Paris has some of the highest rents, while cities like Lyon and Strasbourg offer more affordable options.
• Food & Groceries: Buying fresh produce from local markets and supermarkets can be cost-effective. Many Pakistani families prefer to shop at halal butcher shops and Asian grocery stores.
• Transportation: Public transport is well-developed, with metros, buses, and trams making commuting easier and more affordable than owning a car.
• Utilities & Bills: Electricity, water, gas, and internet costs vary by region but are generally reasonable for families living in suburban areas.

Job Opportunities: Employment Options for Parents

Finding a stable job is crucial for financial security. France’s job market is diverse, with opportunities in technology, healthcare, education, and engineering. Pakistani professionals often seek employment in these fields to support their families while sending money to Pakistan from France.

Pakistani entrepreneurs and small business owners also thrive in France, particularly in the food, retail, and transportation sectors. Many families run restaurants, grocery stores, or import/export businesses, catering to both locals and the South Asian community.

Pakistani Community & Cultural Comfort: Mosques, Halal Food, and Social Circles

A strong Pakistani community helps families adjust, offering mosques, halal food, and cultural gatherings to maintain traditions.

• Halal restaurants & grocery stores: Many French cities have Pakistani and Middle Eastern grocery stores that sell halal meat, spices, and traditional ingredients.
• Mosques & prayer facilities: Paris, Marseille, and Lyon have multiple mosques where Muslim families can practice their faith.
• Social & community groups: Expat organizations and Pakistani cultural associations help families stay connected and celebrate festivals like Eid and Pakistan’s Independence Day.

Healthcare & Safety: Reliable Hospitals and Family-Friendly Neighborhoods

France has an excellent healthcare system with both public and private medical facilities. Families prioritize cities with safe neighborhoods, well-equipped hospitals, and accessible healthcare services. Healthcare benefits for Pakistani expat families include:

• Public healthcare access: Residents, including expats, can access state-funded healthcare services.
• Private healthcare options: Many families opt for private insurance to cover additional medical expenses and faster services.
• Pharmacies & medical centers: Every city has pharmacies and general practitioners available for medical consultations.

Safety is another important factor. Families look for low-crime neighborhoods, good schools, and child-friendly public spaces when choosing where to live.

Best Cities in France for Pakistani Families

Finding the perfect city to raise a family depends on factors like affordability, education, job opportunities, and community support.

Paris: A Multicultural Hub with Top Schools

Paris is the most popular destination for Pakistani expats due to its job opportunities and diverse cultural scene.

• Education: International schools like the Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye offer top-quality education.
• Work Opportunities: A thriving job market in IT, finance, healthcare, and education.
• Cost & Housing: Paris is expensive, but expat-friendly suburbs like Saint-Denis and Clichy offer affordable housing.
• Pakistani Community: Numerous mosques, halal restaurants, and social groups provide cultural familiarity.

Lyon: Affordable, Safe, and Family-Oriented

Lyon is a great alternative to Paris, offering a lower cost of living and a high standard of living.

• Lower Cost of Living: Rent is 30-40% cheaper than in Paris.
• Good Schools & Universities: A strong education system with renowned institutions like the University of Lyon.
• Quality of Life: Family-friendly parks, excellent public transport, and a strong job market.

Toulouse: Ideal for Families in STEM & Aviation

Toulouse is known for its aerospace and engineering industries, making it a prime choice for professionals in these fields.

• Job Market: Home to Airbus and other tech firms, ideal for STEM professionals.
• Family-Friendly: Excellent public transport and healthcare services.
• Weather & Lifestyle: Milder winters, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a relaxed lifestyle.

Living with a Family in France

France offers Pakistani expat families a great quality of life with top-tier education, job opportunities, and a supportive community. Cities like Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Strasbourg, and Marseille each have unique advantages based on cost of living, lifestyle, and employment prospects.

Before moving, researching your options and connecting with the local Pakistani community can make settling in much smoother. No matter which city you choose, having a reliable way to send money to Pakistan from France online is essential to support loved ones back home.

FAQs

What is the best city in France for Pakistani families?

Lyon, Toulouse, Strasbourg, and Marseille are great options for affordability and family-friendly environments.

How can I find halal food in France?

Most major cities have halal grocery stores, butcher shops, and restaurants catering to the Muslim community.

Is healthcare free in France for expats?

France offers free or low-cost public healthcare, but private insurance can provide additional benefits.

How can I send money to Pakistan from France with low fees?

ACE Money Transfer, Wise, and bank transfers offer reliable money transfer to Pakistan from France with competitive rates.

Are there Pakistani schools in France?

While there are no specific Pakistani schools, international schools and public schools provide quality education for expat children.