7 MARCH 2025
NOTE: THIS IS PROVIDED AS A GUIDE ONLY AND MAY CHANGE OVER TIME
Moving to Paris with your family is an exciting adventure! But with 20 arrondissements (districts) to choose from, finding the right location can feel overwhelming. Paris is known for its charming yet compact apartments, excellent schools, parks, and cultural attractions, but not all areas are equally suited for families.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best arrondissements for families, considering safety, green spaces, family-friendly amenities, and schools.
What Families Need in a Parisian Arrondissement
Before choosing your arrondissement, consider these key factors:
Safety & Low Noise Levels – Family-friendly districts should be calm, safe, and well-lit at night.
Proximity to Parks and Green Spaces – Kids need room to run and play, so being near parks is a big plus!
Schools and Daycares – Easy access to bilingual schools, international schools, and quality public schools is crucial.
Spacious Apartments – Paris apartments can be small, so some arrondissements offer larger housing options.
Access to Transport and Shops– Being close to metro stations, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities makes daily life easier for families.
Top Arrondissements for Families in Paris
16th Arrondissement – Elegant, Spacious, and Close to Parks
Best for: Affluent families looking for a quiet, residential, and green environment.
Why it’s great for families:
Very safe and residential – A quiet area with wider streets and larger apartments.
Close to major parks – Next to Bois de Boulogne (Boulogne Woods), one of Paris’ largest green spaces with playgrounds, a lake, and a zoo.
Top-rated international schools – Includes Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye and Lycée Janson de Sailly.
Upscale amenities – High-end shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
Downside:
The 16th is one of the most expensive areas in Paris for rent.
Average Rent (March 2025):
2-bedroom apartment: – €3,000–€5,000 per month
3-bedroom apartment: – €4,500–€7,000 per month
15th Arrondissement – Affordable, Spacious, and Family-Oriented
Best for: Middle-class families looking for affordable rent and green spaces.
Why it’s great for families:
Spacious apartments – More modern buildings with bigger kitchens and storage space.
Great schools – Highly-rated public and private schools, plus bilingual options.
Local markets and family-friendly cafés – A great mix of French charm and practical amenities.
Parc André Citroën and Parc Georges Brassens – Safe parks with playgrounds and open green spaces.
Downside:
The 15th lacks some of the historic Parisian charm but makes up for it with comfort and convenience.
Average Rent (March 2025):
2-bedroom apartment – €2,500–€4,000 per month
3-bedroom apartment – €3,800–€5,500 per month
12th Arrondissement – Green, Family-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
Best for: Families looking for affordable rentals and great access to nature.
Why it’s great for families:
Bois de Vincennes – Paris’ largest park with a lake, pony rides, botanical gardens, and cycling paths.
Good public and private schools – Lycée Paul Valéry and École Bilingue Chardin.
Relaxed and local feel – More affordable rent and a strong sense of community.
Great transport links – Easy access to Gare de Lyon and metro lines.
Downside:
The 12th is a little farther from the city hub, but perfect for a quieter family life.
Average Rent:
2-bedroom apartment – €2,000–€3,500 per month
3-bedroom apartment – €3,200–€4,800 per month
5th Arrondissement (Latin Quarter) – Historic, Academic, and Lively
Best for: Academic families, book lovers, and those wanting a vibrant, cultural lifestyle.
Why it’s great for families:
Home to excellent schools – Lycée Henri-IV, one of France’s top-ranked schools and international institutions.
A cultural and historic hub – Near the Pantheon, Musée de Cluny, and world-famous bookstores.
Walkable and well-connected – Compact, with everything within walking distance.
Family-friendly cafés & local markets – Ideal for weekend strolls and fresh produce shopping.
Downside:
Apartments tend to be small, and the area can be “touristy.”
Average Rent:
2-bedroom apartment – €2,500–€4,200 per month
3-bedroom apartment – €3,800–€5,500 per month
17th Arrondissement – A Hidden Gem for Families
Best for: Families looking for a balance between urban Paris and a calm residential area.
Why it’s great for families:
Local, non-touristy vibe – Feels more authentic and less crowded.
Parc Monceau – One of the most beautiful and kid-friendly parks in Paris.
Affordable compared to central Paris – Good-sized apartments at better prices.
Great schools – EIB Monceau and other bilingual schools.
Downside:
In the 17th some parts lack direct metro access, so check proximity to transport.
Average Rent:
2-bedroom apartment – €2,400–€3,800 per month
3-bedroom apartment – €3,500–€5,000 per month
Which Arrondissement is Right for Your Family?
16th | Upscale, spacious, safe | Expensive |
15th | Spacious, family-friendly, mid-range prices | High cost |
12th | Budget-friendly, green spaces, local feel | Mid cost |
5th | Cultural, academic, historic | High cost |
17th | Residential, local, quiet | High cost |
Paris may be a bustling city, but there are many family-friendly arrondissements offering great schools, parks, and a safe environment for families and children. Whether you prefer classic Parisian elegance, modern comfort, or budget-conscious options, there’s an arrondissement that fits your needs.
Looking for a family-friendly rental in Paris? Check out our Paris Rental Directory to find trusted agencies and listings tailored for families!
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
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