This content was generated using artificial intelligence based on publicly available information. It is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, immigration, or professional advice. Information may be incomplete or outdated. Always verify with official sources before making decisions.
Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Besançon offers a balanced, mid-sized lifestyle for those seeking the authentic French experience without the frantic pace or inflated costs of Paris or Lyon. Nestled in a scenic loop of the Doubs river, the city appeals to professionals drawn to its high quality of life, reliable healthcare, and a growing international community that makes integration feel manageable. It is an ideal base for those who value outdoor access and a stable, safe environment.
However, relocation here requires a mindset shift; while the public transport and amenities are dependable, the city lacks the high-octane energy and endless career networking of a major global hub. It is a place for those prioritizing stability and local charm over metropolitan intensity.
Besançon has an oceanic climate with continental influence, classified as Köppen Cfb. Summers are warm but not extreme, winters are cool to cold, and precipitation is spread fairly evenly through the year, with annual rainfall around 1,157-1,174 mm and about 130-136 rainy days. The city averages roughly 2,100 sunshine hours per year, and current conditions of mild temperature and high humidity are consistent with its generally moist climate.
Summer Average
25°C
Winter Average
2°C
Climate Type
Oceanic
Rainy Days
136
Sunny Days
125
Humidity
80%
Spring
March - May
12-20°C
Spring is variable, with cool mornings in March and increasingly mild to warm afternoons by May. Rain is common, and cloud cover often alternates with sunnier intervals.
Moderate rainfall
Summer
June - August
23-26°C
Summer is warm, with average highs near the mid-20s°C and occasional hotter spells. Rainfall remains frequent enough that showers and thunderstorms can occur even in the warmest months.
Moderate rainfall
Autumn
September - November
10-21°C
Autumn cools steadily from mild September weather to chilly November conditions. It is often cloudy and wet, with rainfall remaining frequent.
Moderate rainfall
Winter
December - February
0-7°C
Winter is cold, with frequent frost and occasional snowfall, especially during colder spells. Damp conditions and overcast skies are common.
Moderate rainfall
Loading Weather...
Air Quality
Besançon
Advantages
Besançon
Rich cultural heritage sites
Abundant parks and green spaces
Strong educational institutions
Affordable cost of living
Picturesque riverside location
Vibrant arts and museums
Disadvantages
Besançon
Limited job opportunities
Weak business ecosystem
Few coworking spaces
Limited nightlife options
Small expat community
Safety & Security in Besançon
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Good
61
/100
France Avg
55
Europe Avg
58
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Besançon to France averages using different marker styles.Compare:
