Food is outrageous based on whose assessment and using what method of accounting?  I found it to be extremely reasonable.  I also find it funny that they pay $2,200 a month and I was able to find an apartment in bouveret for $750.  

If they come from a poor state sure maybe I'll give you it being expensive but coming from Alaska? I was literally just there 20days ago.  Best stay I had on the entire European continent.  The only place that wasn't drowning with refugees or gypsies in any major cities.  But then again part of their cost factor could be the "resident visa" portion of their contract.  Taxes/levies are different for them. How's well do they speak French?