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Cost of Living in Tahiti in 2025: A Complete Guide.


Tahiti makes people dream white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, majestic mountains, and the unique Polynesian way of life. But behind the postcard scenery, many mainland French residents thinking about moving to French Polynesia ask the same question: what is the cost of living in Tahiti in 2025?


In this article, you’ll find a complete overview of the expenses to expect when living in Tahiti: housing, food, transportation, leisure, healthcare, and your overall budget. A helpful resource to prepare your relocation with peace of mind.


montagne de tahiti


1. Housing in Tahiti: the Biggest Expense


Housing costs in Tahiti are often the biggest surprise for newcomers. In 2025, demand remains high, especially around Papeete and the surrounding communes (Punaauia, Faa’a, Arue).


  • One- or two-bedroom apartment (T2/T3): between €1,200 and €1,800 per month, depending on the location and the view (lagoon or mountain).

  • Single-family house: from €1,800 to €2,500, with high-end properties offering a pool or direct access to the sea.

  • Shared accommodation: between €500 and €800 per room, a great option to reduce costs when you first arrive.


💡 Nomadea Tip: Move slightly away from downtown Papeete to find more affordable rentals while staying well connected by car or bus.


2. Food & Groceries: The Price of Island Living


Groceries in Tahiti are more expensive than in mainland France because most products are imported. Prices also depend on where you shop — large supermarkets (Carrefour, Hyper U) or local markets.


  • Monthly grocery budget for 2 people: around €600 to €900.

  • Imported products (cheese, cured meats, wine, organic items): 2 to 3 times more expensive than in mainland France.

  • Local products (fish, tropical fruits, market vegetables): more affordable — and much fresher.


💡 Nomadea Tip: Shop at the Papeete market or buy directly from local farmers to eat fresh and keep your costs down.


étalage der poisson

3. Transportation: A Car Is Essential ; and Costly


In Tahiti, having a car is almost essential for commuting and getting around.

  • Fuel price: around €1.50 to €1.60 per liter in 2025.

  • Used car: €7,000 to €15,000, depending on the model.

  • Car rental: around €500 to €700 per month for a compact vehicle.

  • Bus (the local “truck”): a cheaper option, but with limited schedules.


💡 Nomadea Tip: If you’re planning a long stay, buying a used car is more cost-effective than renting long term.


4. Healthcare & Insurance

Good news: as a resident, you benefit from CPS (Caisse de Prévoyance Sociale). However, many mainlanders also subscribe to additional private health insurance for better coverage.


  • General practitioner visit: €30 to €40.

  • Dentist / specialist: around €60.

  • Private health insurance: €50 to €150 per month, depending on coverage.


5. Leisure & Daily Life

French Polynesia offers an exceptional quality of life, but leisure activities also come with a cost.


  • Restaurant outing: from €15 (local snack) to €50 (mid-range restaurant). High-end establishments easily charge €80 to €120 per person.

  • Gym membership: around €50 per month.

  • Diving: €50 to €80 per session.

  • Internet + mobile: €60 to €90 per month, depending on the provider.


💡 Nomadea Tip: Make the most of the free activities! Hiking, beaches, snorkeling in the lagoon — nature is Tahiti’s best playground.


personne qui fait du kayak


6. Salary & Purchasing Power


In 2025, the average salary in French Polynesia is around €2,200 gross. Salaries are often higher than in mainland France in certain sectors (hospitality, food service, construction, healthcare), but the higher cost of living reduces purchasing power.


👉 Example: a mainland couple both earning average incomes can enjoy a comfortable life, but they must learn to adapt their consumption habits — fewer imported goods, more local products.


7. Total Monthly Budget for a Mainland French Resident in Tahiti (2025)

Here is a realistic estimate for a couple without children:

Expense Category

Average Monthly Budget

Housing

€1,500

Food

€700

Transportation

€400

Healthcare / Insurance

€100

Leisure / Internet

€400

➡️ Estimated Total

€3,100 / month

👉 For a single person, expect a minimum of €1,800 to €2,200 per month to live comfortably.


8. Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Tahiti


✅ Advantages:

  • Exceptional living environment (nature, climate, culture).

  • Professional opportunities in certain sectors.

  • High quality of life and a more relaxed pace.

❌ Disadvantages:

  • High cost of living.

  • Insularity: far from mainland France.

  • Dependence on imported goods (occasional shortages possible).



Conclusion: Should You Move to Tahiti in 2025?

The cost of living in Tahiti in 2025 is undeniably higher than in mainland France, but it is still very possible to live comfortably by adjusting your consumption habits and prioritizing local products.For someone arriving from metropolitan France, moving to Tahiti is above all a lifestyle change: less excess, more nature, culture, and simplicity.


👉 If you dream of a life between lagoon and mountains, Tahiti can be an incredible adventure — as long as you plan your budget carefully.



 
 
 
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