Living in Cayenne: the ultimate expat guide
Everything you need to know for a successful life in Cayenne.
Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana, offers a unique experience as the only European territory on the South American mainland. With a population of around 64,000 residents, this coastal city blends French administration with Amazonian wilderness, Creole heritage, and multicultural influences from Brazil, Suriname, and the Caribbean. As an overseas department of France, Cayenne uses the euro (EUR) and operates under French law, providing a familiar framework for newcomers while delivering an exotic tropical setting.
5 Good Reasons to Move to Cayenne
- European standards in South America – Full access to French healthcare, social security, and legal protections.
- Exceptional biodiversity – Over 98% of French Guiana is covered by pristine Amazonian rainforest.
- No visa required for EU citizens – Seamless relocation with full working rights.
- Tropical climate year-round – Temperatures averaging 26-30°C with no need for winter clothing.
- Strategic location – Gateway to South American adventures while maintaining European connections.
Working in Cayenne: Employment Opportunities and Key Sectors
The job market in Cayenne is shaped by its status as a French overseas territory and its unique geographic position. The economy relies heavily on public sector employment, the Guiana Space Centre in nearby Kourou, and traditional industries like fishing and forestry. Understanding the local employment landscape is essential for newcomers planning their career in this tropical outpost.
Key Employment Sectors
The public sector dominates employment in Cayenne, accounting for approximately 42% of all jobs. Government positions, healthcare, and education offer stable employment with attractive benefits. The Centre Spatial Guyanais (CSG) near Kourou provides high-skilled positions in aerospace, engineering, and logistics, contributing roughly 25% of regional GDP. Service industries, construction, and retail also offer opportunities, particularly as the region continues to develop infrastructure.
Work Permits and Salaries
EU/EEA citizens can work freely in French Guiana without a permit. Non-EU nationals typically need a long-stay visa and work authorization, with processing taking 2-4 months. The Passeport Talent visa suits highly skilled workers. Civil servants receive a 40% cost-of-living bonus on their salary.
Minimum wage (SMIC) | EUR 1,767/month (2025) |
Average annual salary | EUR 39,160 |
Unemployment rate | ~27% (2024) |
Sources: INSEE, Service-Public.fr
Higher Education at the University of French Guiana
Higher education in Cayenne centers on the Université de Guyane (University of French Guiana), a public institution established in 2014. Located on Route de Baduel, the university serves approximately 2,000-3,000 students and offers programs recognized throughout the French higher education system. International students benefit from the same tuition structure as mainland France.
Academic Programs and Research
The university offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across multiple disciplines, including biology, environmental science, law, economics, and humanities. Research strengths include tropical ecology, biodiversity, and Amazonian studies, taking advantage of the region's unique natural environment. The institution participates in the Erasmus+ program, facilitating student exchanges with European universities. A new logistics course was launched in 2025 in partnership with local industry.
Admission and Fees
International applicants can apply through the standard French university admission process. EU students pay the same fees as French nationals, typically around EUR 170-250 per year for bachelor's programs and EUR 240-380 for master's programs. Non-EU students may face higher fees depending on their status. The academic calendar follows the French semester system.
Sources: University of French Guiana, Campus France
Schools and Education for Children in Cayenne
French Guiana follows the French national education system, providing free, mandatory schooling for children aged 3 to 16. Schools in Cayenne operate under the Académie de la Guyane and follow the same curriculum as mainland France, leading to recognized qualifications including the Brevet and Baccalauréat. Families relocating with children will find a familiar structure with some local adaptations.
School Structure and Enrollment
Primary education (école primaire) lasts 5 years, followed by 4 years of middle school (collège) and 3 years of high school (lycée). Enrollment rates in urban Cayenne are high, though remote areas face challenges. To enroll, families should contact the mairie (town hall) for primary schools or the school directly for secondary education. Documents required include proof of residence, vaccination records, and previous school reports.
International and Bilingual Options
International schooling options in Cayenne are limited compared to larger cities. The Collège Paul Kapel offers French-language instruction approved by the Ministry of National Education. For families seeking English-language or International Baccalaureate programs, options are scarce in French Guiana; distance learning or schools in metropolitan France may be considered for specific curricula. Private tutoring services are available to support children transitioning between educational systems.
Sources: French Ministry of Education, Académie de la Guyane
Housing and Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Cayenne
Finding accommodation in Cayenne requires understanding the local housing market, which differs significantly from mainland France. Rental properties range from modern apartments in residential areas to traditional Creole houses in the historic center. Housing demand often exceeds supply, particularly for quality properties, so early planning is advisable.
Popular Neighborhoods for Newcomers
Downtown Cayenne near Place des Palmistes offers proximity to services, shops, and cultural attractions, with rents ranging from EUR 700-1,200/month for a one or two-bedroom apartment. The Montabo area is favored for its calm atmosphere, beach proximity, and newer constructions, with slightly lower rents between EUR 600-1,000/month. Rémire-Montjoly, a suburb east of Cayenne, provides a quieter residential setting with access to beaches and hiking trails, appealing to families.
Rental Prices and Procedures
Rental contracts in French Guiana follow French law. Expect to provide proof of income (typically 3x the rent), employer references, and a security deposit of 1-2 months' rent. Many landlords prefer tenants with stable employment, particularly civil servants.
1-bedroom apartment (city center) | EUR 700-900/month |
3-bedroom apartment (city center) | EUR 1,000-1,500/month |
1-bedroom apartment (suburbs) | EUR 600-800/month |
3-bedroom house (suburbs) | EUR 1,200-2,000/month |
Sources: Local real estate listings, Leboncoin
Leisure, Culture, and Things to Do in Cayenne
Cayenne offers a rich cultural life that blends French colonial heritage, Creole traditions, and Amazonian adventure. From colorful markets to pristine beaches and world-class natural attractions, residents find plenty of activities to fill their weekends and holidays.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
The Musée Départemental Alexandre-Franconie on Place des Palmistes showcases regional history, indigenous artifacts, and an impressive insect collection. The Musée des Cultures Guyanaises explores the diverse ethnic heritage of Amerindians, Creoles, Maroons, and Hmong communities. Fort Cépérou provides panoramic views over the city and river, while the Cayenne Cathedral dates from 1833. The historic center features well-preserved Creole architecture with colorful wooden balconies.
Nature, Beaches, and Outdoor Activities
Montabo Beach and Plage de Montjoly offer swimming and relaxation close to the city. Between March and August, leatherback turtles nest on local beaches—a spectacular natural event. The Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands), including the infamous Devil's Island, are accessible by boat and combine history with tropical beauty. The Guiana Space Centre in Kourou offers guided tours and the chance to witness rocket launches. The annual Carnival of Cayenne, running from January to March, is one of the longest and most colorful in the world, featuring the traditional Touloulous masquerade.
Sources: Comité du Tourisme de la Guyane, TripAdvisor
Daily Life in Cayenne: Transportation and Lifestyle
Daily life in Cayenne combines French administrative efficiency with a relaxed Caribbean-South American rhythm. The tropical climate means light clothing year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C. Understanding local transportation options and cultural habits will help newcomers settle into their new environment smoothly.
Getting Around Cayenne
Public transportation in Cayenne is limited but developing. The Agglo'bus network operates 6 urban bus lines serving the greater Cayenne area, including Rémire-Montjoly and Matoury. A new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is under construction, expected to improve connectivity significantly. However, most residents rely on private vehicles. Car rental costs approximately EUR 30-50/day, and fuel prices are regulated by the prefecture, remaining consistent across all stations. The main airport, Cayenne-Félix Eboué, is located 25 minutes from the city center.
Lifestyle and Cultural Habits
Shopping is done at supermarkets like Super U and Carrefour, though prices are higher than in mainland France due to import costs. Local markets, including the Cayenne Market, offer fresh local produce at better prices. The pace of life is slower than in European cities. French is the primary language, though Creole, Portuguese, and various indigenous languages are also spoken. Businesses typically close for lunch and observe French public holidays.
Sources: CACL, Wikipedia - Transport in French Guiana
Cost of Living in Cayenne: Budgeting for Your Move
The cost of living in Cayenne is notably higher than in neighboring South American countries and comparable to or slightly above mainland France. This is primarily due to import costs—most goods arrive from France with added shipping, dock dues, and taxes. Understanding these costs is essential for realistic financial planning.
Monthly Budget for a Single Person
A single person can expect monthly expenses of approximately EUR 1,400-1,800 excluding rent. The largest variable expenses are groceries and transportation.
Rent (1-bedroom, center) | EUR 700-900 |
Groceries | EUR 400-500 |
Transportation (car/fuel) | EUR 150-250 |
Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | EUR 150-200 |
Health insurance (top-up) | EUR 50-100 |
Monthly Budget for a Family of Four
Families should budget EUR 3,500-4,500/month including rent, though public schooling is free.
Rent (3-bedroom, center) | EUR 1,200-1,500 |
Groceries | EUR 800-1,000 |
Transportation (car/fuel) | EUR 250-350 |
Utilities | EUR 200-300 |
Childcare (if needed) | EUR 400-800 |
Sources: Numbeo, LivingCost.org
In Short
Cayenne stands as a truly unique destination—a piece of Europe nestled on the edge of the Amazon rainforest. With its French infrastructure, tropical climate, and access to extraordinary biodiversity, it appeals to those seeking adventure without sacrificing familiar comforts. The cost of living is higher than mainland France, but civil service positions offer attractive bonuses, and the quality of life—with beaches, nature reserves, and cultural festivals—compensates for the premium. Whether you're drawn by career opportunities at the Space Centre, the allure of the Amazon, or the appeal of a multicultural community, Cayenne offers an experience unlike anywhere else. Connect with other newcomers and residents on the Expat.com French Guiana forum to share tips, find housing, and build your network in this extraordinary corner of France.
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