Introduction
Paris may be world-renowned for its art, cuisine, and romance, but it’s also an exceptional city for families — if you know where to look. While central arrondissements buzz with tourists and nightlife, several quieter, greener neighborhoods offer a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment for children and parents alike.
Whether you're relocating with kids or planning long-term family life in the French capital, this guide covers the top family-friendly arrondissements in Paris, highlighting schools, parks, housing, and community life.
1. 16th Arrondissement – Elegant, Spacious, and Green
Why It’s Great for Families:
Wide, tree-lined streets and large apartments
Proximity to the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’s second-largest park
Home to top international schools: École Internationale Bilingue, Lycée International
Housing Lifestyle:
The 16th is known for its luxurious Haussmann buildings, spacious layouts, and calm atmosphere. It’s ideal for families who want a suburban feel in the city.
Highlights:
Parks: Jardin du Ranelagh, Bois de Boulogne
Museums: Musée Marmottan Monet, Palais de Tokyo
Public transportation is reliable, yet traffic is manageable.
2. 15th Arrondissement – Residential Comfort Meets Convenience
Why It’s Great for Families:
A balanced mix of residential peace and city amenities
Affordable housing (relative to central Paris)
Family-oriented infrastructure: daycares, playgrounds, medical clinics
Housing Lifestyle:
The 15th is one of Paris's largest arrondissements, offering a blend of modern apartments and classic homes. It’s especially appealing to middle-class families looking for space and practicality.
Highlights:
Parks: Parc André Citroën, Square Saint-Lambert
Schools: Good mix of public and private bilingual options
Family-friendly weekend markets and cafés
3. 12th Arrondissement – Green Space Galore
Why It’s Great for Families:
Home to the Bois de Vincennes, a massive park with a zoo, lakes, and botanical gardens
More affordable than western arrondissements
Diverse and multicultural community
Housing Lifestyle:
The 12th offers a quieter, greener environment and is popular among families who want proximity to nature without leaving the city.
Highlights:
Parks: Parc de Bercy, Bois de Vincennes
Attractions: Paris Zoological Park, Aquarium Tropical
Excellent public transportation to central Paris
4. 5th Arrondissement – Education at Its Core
Why It’s Great for Families:
Known as the Latin Quarter, home to top universities and schools
Intellectual atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage
Historic yet family-friendly
Housing Lifestyle:
This arrondissement is ideal for academically focused families who value access to prestigious institutions and a vibrant cultural scene. Housing is pricier and tends to be smaller.
Highlights:
Parks: Jardin des Plantes, Arènes de Lutèce
Schools: Proximity to Lycée Henri IV, Lycée Louis-le-Grand
Historic cafés, bookshops, and museums
5. 17th Arrondissement – Up-and-Coming with a Family Focus
Why It’s Great for Families:
Growing popularity among young Parisian families
Neighborhoods like Batignolles and Ternes are peaceful and trendy
New eco-district developments (Clichy-Batignolles)
Housing Lifestyle:
The 17th is evolving rapidly, offering a mix of classic Parisian charm and modern housing options. Ideal for urban-minded families who want access to green space and a community feel.
Highlights:
Parks: Parc Monceau, Parc Clichy-Batignolles
Market streets, good preschools, and daycare options
Increasing number of eco-friendly residences
6. 14th Arrondissement – Laid-back and Livable
Why It’s Great for Families:
Calm, village-like feel with artistic roots
Less touristy but well-connected
Good schools and family-centric housing
Housing Lifestyle:
The 14th offers a local, relaxed vibe with classic Parisian buildings and lower population density. The area feels safe and authentic, making it great for long-term family living.
Highlights:
Parks: Parc Montsouris, Jardin Lionel-Assouad
Nearby attractions: Catacombs of Paris, artist studios
Village Montparnasse and Plaisance areas are ideal for families
7. Suburban Alternatives (Outside the Arrondissements)
Neuilly-sur-Seine
Very affluent and peaceful
International schools, green parks
Feels suburban but is just minutes from central Paris
Versailles
Historic charm, space, and top-tier schools
Great train connections to Paris (30–40 minutes)
More affordable large homes compared to central arrondissements
Boulogne-Billancourt
Popular among expats and upper-middle-class families
Near Bois de Boulogne and major international schools
Blend of modern housing and urban convenience
How to Choose the Right Arrondissement for Your Family
| Criteria | Best Fit |
|---|---|
| Need for top schools | 5th, 16th, 15th |
| Spacious apartments | 16th, 17th, suburbs |
| Budget-conscious families | 12th, 14th, 15th |
| Access to green spaces | 16th, 12th, 17th |
| International environment | 16th, Neuilly, Boulogne |
Final Tips for Families Moving to Paris
School Registration: Public schools are assigned based on your address. Register early!
Transportation: Paris has one of the best public transit systems. Choose an arrondissement with good metro/bus access.
Healthcare: Make sure your local area has pediatricians and family GPs.
Community: Look for local community centers or mairies (town halls) for family events and support networks.
Conclusion
Paris can be a wonderful city to raise a family — if you find the right arrondissement that matches your lifestyle and needs. From the elegant quietude of the 16th to the affordable green spaces of the 12th, each family-friendly area offers its own blend of charm, comfort, and community.
Take time to explore, visit neighborhoods during the day and evening, and don’t hesitate to speak with locals or other expat families. With a bit of planning, you can find the perfect Parisian neighborhood to call home.
Important Links
Boulevard Coast Jalan Loyang Besar EC
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Understanding the Loan to Value (LTV) Limit in Singapore Real Estate
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Boulevard Coast Jalan Loyang Besar EC
