"Let's just say that it's hard to make anything past 2000 EUR per month after taxes in Paris. " If we are speaking of software engineering salaries that's real

"Let's just say that it's hard to make anything past 2000 EUR per month after taxes in Paris. " If we are speaking of software engineering salaries that's really low. In Helsinki capable professionals can get 'easily' 3000€ after taxes per month (not in all companies though). If one has proven track record, is undoubtedly in 'smart and gets things done' category, etc.