Seine-Saint-Denis: the Top 10 cities to live in in 2026 unveiled

Every year, the ranking of the world’s best cities to live in sparks curiosity and debate. In 2026, Seine-Saint-Denis revealed a number of surprises that challenged conventional wisdom. This often stigmatized département shows a very different face through its top-rated communes.

A prize list that redefines the department’s image

The 2026 ranking highlights towns that combine a pleasant living environment with local dynamism. These towns stand out for their efforts in terms of urban planning and public services. As a result, several of them have climbed up the national rankings.

The criteria used to establish this top 10 are many and varied. They include air quality, access to transport, safety andcultural offerings. Green spaces also play a decisive role in the overall assessment.

This year, a number of towns have surprised everyone by making it to the top of the table. As a result, residents are rediscovering their territory in a whole new light. The appeal of these towns to families continues to grow.

“This ranking proves that our department has remarkable assets that are often overlooked by the general public.”

The criteria that make the difference

Access to healthcare is one of the indicators most closely scrutinized by the French. In this area, several communes in the 93 region come out on top. Indeed, the presence of quality health centers and hospitals reassures residents.

Transportation is also a major factor. The extension of the metro and tramway lines is transforming residents’ daily lives. From now on, Paris can be reached in less than 30 minutes from many of the department’s towns.

• Access to public transport and soft mobility
• Quality of schools and extracurricular activities
• Green spaces and urban parks
• Local shops and services
• Dynamic local associations and culture

Cities that stand out in the ranking

Among the top-ranked communes in Seine-Saint-Denis, certain names come up regularly. Les Lilas, Le Raincy and Noisy-le-Grand are particularly attractive for their balance between urbanity and greenery. These towns offer a living environment much sought-after by young professionals.

Le Raincy retains its reputation as a peaceful town with the feel of a small village. Its tree-lined streets and lively market attract new residents every year. On the other hand, property prices remain high compared with the department average.

Montreuil continues to evolve, attracting visitors with its lively arts scene. Industrial wastelands have been converted into artists’ studios, revitalizing the district. This transformation is attracting a young, creative population.

Pantin’s urban renewal has been in full swing for several years. The city is now home to major corporate headquarters and major cultural venues. And yet, it has preserved a working-class identity that gives it its charm.

Positive developments in infrastructure

Major development projects are bearing fruit in many of the département’s towns. The Grand Paris Express is a game-changer for towns that have long been isolated. The arrival of new stations is boosting local attractiveness.

Sports and cultural facilities are also multiplying in Seine-Saint-Denis. The legacy of the 2024 Olympic Games directly benefits local residents. New swimming pools, gymnasiums and aquatic centers dot the region.

A department in the throes of change

The image of Seine-Saint-Denis is gradually changing in the minds of people living in the Paris region. Persistent clichés are gradually giving way to a more nuanced reality. This transformation is particularly noticeable among first-time buyers.

Property prices remain more affordable than in Paris or the Hauts-de-Seine. For an equivalent budget, buyers can obtain larger surface areas. This economic reality attracts many families in search of more space.

The département’s cultural diversity is also a major asset. It is reflected in a culinary and artistic wealth that is unique in the Paris region. As a result, local markets offer products from all over the world.

This 2026 ranking confirms an underlying trend that has been observed for several years. Seine-Saint-Denis is no longer just a stopover on the way to the capital. It is becoming a destination in its own right for those seeking a balanced, affordable lifestyle.

• Seine-Saint-Denis