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.
France, as part of the Schengen Area, allows visa-free entry for citizens of over 60 countries, including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and many others, for short stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Travelers must have a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure from Schengen, proof of sufficient funds, return/onward tickets, and accommodation details. Entry is subject to border officer discretion.[4][7] From the last...
Toulouse locals cherish their markets, riverside squares, and hidden gardens for weekend markets, cafe terraces, and relaxed hangs amid the city's pink brick charm.
Victor Hugo MarketMarkets & Shopping
Locals flock here Saturday mornings for fresh produce, seafood, and upstairs lunches of cassoulet. It's the bustling heart for shopping, gossiping, and weekend rituals since 1896.
Place Saint-GeorgesSocial & Cultural
Toulousains gather on weekends for terrace lunches of hearty cassoulet or hot chocolate, enjoying the vibrant cafe scene away from tourist crowds.
Marché des CarmesMarkets & Shopping
Neighborhood favorite in the Carmes quarter where locals shop for local produce at its 50 stalls, perfect for weekend picnics and daily market runs.
Place Saint-PierreSocial & Cultural
Riverside spot for alfresco dining, street buskers, and pre-festival strolls along the Garonne, a go-to for relaxed weekend hangs.
Jardin JaponaisParks & Recreation
City-center Japanese garden where locals relax with cherry blossoms, picnics, or jogs; a peaceful escape just 15 minutes from the Capitol.
Place de la TrinitéSocial & Cultural
Buzzy square for cafe life and people-watching, where locals unwind over coffee or drinks on weekends in a lively yet authentic vibe.
Advantages
Toulouse
Affordable housing and living
339 cultural sites nearby
325 parks and green spaces
Aerospace industry hub
Charming historic city center
Disadvantages
Toulouse
High housing costs
Limited job salaries
Few coworking spaces
Bureaucratic processes slow
Limited expat support
Toulouse offers a compelling mix of southern French lifestyle without the overcrowding or expense of Paris or the Côte d'Azur. The city's aerospace and tech sectors attract a steady stream of international professionals, and the pace here feels genuinely livable—good food, reliable public transit, and solid healthcare are standard rather than luxuries. Housing remains reasonably priced compared to other major French cities, making it accessible for families and remote workers.
The main trade-off is linguistic: English proficiency outside professional circles is lower than in Paris, and integrating socially requires genuine French effort. The city also sits in a quieter corner of France, which appeals to some but means fewer direct international flights and a smaller established expat infrastructure. If you're seeking authentic French living without constant tourism and want a stable, affordable base with real career opportunities, Toulouse deserves serious consideration.
Safety & Security in Toulouse
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Moderate
58
/100
France Avg
56
Avg
58
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Toulouse to France averages using different marker styles.Compare:
Toulouse
France Average
Safety Index
Moderate
Safety from Crime
Moderate
Safe Alone (Day)
Good
Safe Alone (Night)
Low
Safety from Violent Crime
Moderate
Safety from Property Crime
Concerning
Environmental & Natural Hazard Risks
Resilience Score: N/A
Data Currently Under Investigation
Environmental risk assessments are being researched. The indicators below show what data will be available soon.
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