Retiring in Saint Pierre and Miquelon in 2025: Cost of Living, Lifestyle, and Practical Tips
Retiring in Saint Pierre and Miquelon in 2025: Cost of Living, Lifestyle, and Practical Tips
Introduction
Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a French overseas territory off the coast of Newfoundland, offers a unique blend of French culture and North American proximity. But what does it cost to retire here in 2025? This guide covers the latest data on cost of living, standards of living, food, and healthcare, with practical tips and citations from authoritative 2024/2025 sources.
Cost of Living in Saint Pierre and Miquelon (2025)
Saint Pierre and Miquelon offers a European lifestyle with costs generally lower than mainland France, but higher than neighboring Canada. According to Expatistan and Numbeo (2024/2025):
- Cost of living index: ~90 (relative to Paris = 100, Prague = 100 reference)
- The Euro is the official currency
- Most goods are imported, so prices can be higher than in continental France
Standard of Living: Low, Medium, and High
The islands offer a peaceful, safe, and community-oriented lifestyle. Here’s what to expect at different budget levels (estimates):
| Standard | Estimated Monthly Budget (USD) | Lifestyle Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Low | $1,600 | Modest apartment, local groceries, public transport, limited dining out |
| Medium | $2,400 | Comfortable apartment, regular dining out, some travel, private healthcare |
| High | $3,500+ | Spacious housing, frequent dining out, travel, premium healthcare |
For a comfortable retirement, a budget of at least $1,600 per month is recommended for a single person. (Sources: Expatistan 2025, SalaryExpert 2025)
Food Costs
Food prices are comparable to France, but with some markups due to import costs. Example prices (Expatistan 2025):
- Bread (500g): $2–$3
- Milk (1L): $1.50–$2
- Eggs (12): $3–$4
- Chicken (1kg): $7–$9
- Bananas (1kg): $2–$3
Dining out is affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant costing $15–$25 per person.
Healthcare Costs
Saint Pierre and Miquelon has a French-style healthcare system, with public hospitals and clinics. Residents benefit from the French social security system, but expats should consider private insurance for full coverage. (Source: SalaryExpert 2025)
- Monthly health insurance: $100–$200 (private/expat plans)
- Doctor’s visit: $30–$50
- Specialist visit: $60–$100
- Hospital stay (public, per day): $100–$200
Healthcare is generally high-quality and accessible.
Practical Tips for Retirees
- French is the official language; Euro is the currency.
- Visa-free entry for many nationalities; check residency requirements for long-term stays.
- Community life is strong; expect a quiet, safe environment.
- Weather is cool and maritime, with mild summers and cold winters.
Conclusion
Retiring in Saint Pierre and Miquelon in 2025 offers a unique blend of French culture and North American proximity, with a peaceful lifestyle and moderate costs. Plan for a budget of $1,600–$2,400 per month for a comfortable lifestyle. For more details, see the sources below.