A National Survey to Understand Household Spending

29,000 households across France will be surveyed in 2026 as part of the “Family Budget” survey conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE). In Mayotte, nearly 1,700 households are included.

The goal is to better understand how families manage their money on a daily basis, according to the official press release. This study covers all common expenses, such as housing, food, healthcare, transportation, clothing, and leisure activities. The survey will allow researchers to track changes in consumption habits and compare budgets based on income, age, and family situation.

The last survey of this type was conducted in 2016-2017. Mandated by a European regulation, this survey is conducted simultaneously in all European Union countries. This allows for data comparisons between countries and a better understanding of household lifestyles.

Participating households will be randomly selected and will receive an official letter from INSEE (the French National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies). An accredited interviewer, carrying a professional identification card and bound by statistical confidentiality, will then contact them to schedule an appointment. The study includes two in-home interviews, separated by a week during which participants will be asked to record all their expenses, either on paper, via a mobile application, or online.

INSEE emphasizes that all information collected is anonymous and confidential. The data collected will be used solely for statistical purposes, specifically to measure changes in the cost of living and to help public authorities better adapt their policies to the needs of families.

Participation from each household is important to reflect the diversity of situations and lifestyles in Mayotte. “The results will provide a precise snapshot of households’ daily economic lives, useful for monitoring changes in purchasing power on the island and in the rest of France,” the source added.