How do you afford to live in Paris, France?

Question

Are there suburbs where renting a flat is less expensive? Can a person make a sufficient wage working as a waitress or teaching ESL?

I'm a 25-year old Canadian and I speak French fluently.

Any advice or input is welcome. Thanks.

Answer 1

There are less expensive suburbs but, generally speaking, you wouldn't want to live there.

There is actually more or less affordable housing in Paris in many of the older buildings where the top floors can only be reached by six flights of stairs, the heating is iffy and air conditioning non existant.

But what the heck, you'll be in Paris and living a somewhat bohemian existance in a sixth floor walk up is part of the experience. Think of yourself as a 21st century Hemingway.

Answer 2

you could be a tourist guide for people who visit paris.

teach french/english to people. (i don't know what you meant by ESL)