Official CAF rates, amounts by zone and profile. Concrete calculation examples and free simulation.
Free simulation based on CAF 2026 rates
The rent taken into account for APL calculation is capped. Beyond these amounts, the surplus is not covered.
| Zone | 1 pers. | 2 pers. | 3 pers. | 4 pers. | 5 pers.+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 Paris, Île-de-France | €279 | €338 | €390 | €433 | €477 |
| Zone 2 Major cities | €245 | €297 | €341 | €379 | €418 |
| Zone 3 Other municipalities | €226 | €274 | €316 | €351 | €386 |
Source: official CAF 2026 rates. Monthly ceilings excluding charges.
In addition to the capped rent, the CAF adds a charge allowance of €62/month to the amount taken into account in the APL calculation. This allowance is the same regardless of the geographic zone.
It covers the standard housing charges: water, electricity, heating, etc. Even if your actual charges are higher, this flat-rate amount is used in the calculation.
The average APL amount in 2026 varies depending on the situation. A single student receives on average between 100 and 250 euros per month depending on the zone. A couple without children receives between 150 and 300 euros, and a family with children between 180 and 400 euros. The exact amount depends on rent, geographic zone and household income.
The APL amount is calculated using an official CAF formula that takes into account: the rent (capped by zone), a charge allowance (62 euros/month in 2026), household income and family composition. The calculation is: APL = Capped rent + Charge allowance - Personal contribution.
Yes, APL rates are revalued every year. In 2026, the rent ceilings and charge allowance were updated (+0.9%). Your income is also reassessed every 3 months via the contemporary income assessment implemented by the CAF.
It is rare but possible for large families in zone 1 (Paris and greater Paris) with very low income and high rent. For a family of 5 or more, the rent ceiling in zone 1 reaches 477 euros, which can entitle them to a substantial APL.
No, the amount varies significantly depending on the geographic zone. France is divided into 3 APL zones: Zone 1 (Paris and greater Paris) with the highest ceilings, Zone 2 (major provincial cities) with intermediate ceilings, and Zone 3 (rest of France) with the lowest ceilings.
Free simulation based on CAF 2026 rates. Results in 2 minutes.
Simulate my APLFree, official 2026 scale. Your amount appears on screen; the itemised calculation and the documents to gather are sent by email, in a single message.
Non-binding estimate. Visit caf.fr for your exact entitlements.