Nice, France
75Nice sits between the Mediterranean and the Alpes-Maritimes, where promenades, trams, and sea light shape daily life. It is a polished, walkable Riviera city with a strong international profile and an unmistakable coastal tempo—sunlit, compact, and just a little theatrical.
Livability scores
-
Walkability 18 / 20
Compact central districts, promenades and amenities close together make most daily errands walkable in Nice.
-
Rail Connectivity 8.7 / 10
Nice is served by Nice-Ville station with frequent regional TER and long-distance TGV/Intercités services along the Riviera and to Paris.
-
Public Transit 8 / 10
Three tram lines and an extensive Lignes d’Azur bus network provide dense coverage, including airport–centre connections.
-
Affordability 4 / 10
Nice has relatively high living and housing costs, ranked among the more expensive French and global cities, though still cheaper than Paris or New York.
-
Safety 6 / 10
Nice has a moderate crime level with a Numbeo safety index around 44, indicating perceived safety is acceptable but not high.
-
Air Quality 6 / 10
EEA data show Nice generally meeting EU air quality standards, with most days in the good to moderate range.
-
Quality Of Life 8 / 10
CityMatch and Numbeo rate Nice around 7/10 overall, highlighting very favorable climate but higher living costs.
-
Food Culture 8 / 10
Nice offers strong Mediterranean cuisine and several Michelin-listed restaurants showcasing Niçoise specialties.
-
Car Free Practicality 8 / 10
Pedestrian zones, tram corridors and dense transit reduce daily reliance on cars for many residents in central Nice.
Score changes since Jul 2026 · v2026.1 Overall ▼ -3, 3 signals changed
Overall 78 75 (-3) 3 declined.
- Affordability86-2
-
Safety76-1
Nice has a moderate crime level with a Numbeo safety index around 44, indicating perceived safety is acceptable but not high.
-
Air Quality76-1
EEA data show Nice generally meeting EU air quality standards, with most days in the good to moderate range.
Advantages & drawbacks
Advantages
- Very strong car-free center
- Excellent regional rail for day trips
- Lifestyle-rich Mediterranean setting
Drawbacks
- High rents and everyday costs
- Tourist pressure in peak season
- Safety and congestion weaker than top-tier peers
Monthly costs
- Estimated monthly cost €2,250 – €2,850
- Monthly transit pass €30
Where expats live
Districts where international residents concentrate. Boundaries are approximate.
- Carré d'Or Central, elegant, and highly walkable, with cafés, shops, and quick beach access. Popular with international residents who want a polished urban base without relying on a car. Ville de Nice districts SeLoger Nice rentals
- Musiciens A classic expat choice near the station and tram, known for Haussmann-style apartment stock and practical central living. It suits commuters, remote workers, and anyone prioritizing everyday convenience. SeLoger Nice rentals Nice Cu00f4te d'Azur tourism district info
- Libération A lively local district with a major market, strong tram access, and a more residential feel than the beachfront core. Expats like it for value, neighborhood life, and quick access to the center. Nice Libu00e9ration market area SeLoger Nice rentals
- Port Popular with international professionals and lifestyle-driven expats, the Port balances old-Nice character with bars, restaurants, and tram connectivity. It is compact enough to live comfortably without a car. Nice Port area Nice Cu00f4te d'Azur tourism district info
Sources
Figures on this page are compiled from the following references. Data is indicative and may change over time.