Strasbourg ranked 3rd most attractive major metropolis in France

Out of over 50 urban areas analyzed, Strasbourg has secured the third spot in the Arthur Loyd barometer for “Major Metropolises.” The study highlights the city’s economic resilience, global connectivity, quality of life, and mobility options.

The Arthur Loyd barometer is an annual study that evaluates the attractiveness and resilience of various territories, ranking metropolises and regional urban areas. Conducted and published annually since 2017 by the Arthur Loyd network, which specializes in commercial real estate, the analysis is based on numerous indicators, including demographics, economics, health, quality of life, and natural risks. These indicators are grouped into four main themes:

• Business environment and commercial real estate
• Economic vitality
• Connectivity, human capital, and transitions
• Quality of life

Previously ranked fifth, Strasbourg has climbed two places in 2024 to secure the third position, pushing Grenoble off the podium. The Alsatian capital now consistently ranks in the top three across all four main themes.

Here are the key advantages of Strasbourg highlighted by the study:

• The presence of numerous large companies, a substantial employment pool, and the growth of advanced metropolitan activities contribute to the city’s strong economic resilience. Companies have been particularly active in acquiring new office spaces.
• With an international airport and high-speed rail access via the LGV Est, Strasbourg, the parliamentary capital of the European Union, boasts excellent global connectivity. The city also attracts many international students, and its border location with Germany ranks it first in the export indicator.
• Committed to ensuring a high quality of life for its residents, Strasbourg offers significant higher education opportunities, particularly in preparatory classes, and has excellent nursery facilities. The city also ranks first in safety.
• Strasbourg’s extensive local and soft mobility transport network is further enhanced by undergoing tram extensions. The costs of commercial real estate and housing are more affordable compared to Rennes and Montpellier, which occupy the other top spots, setting Strasbourg apart from its rivals.

According to the study’s authors, Strasbourg has several strengths that could help it continue to rise and potentially claim the top spot in future rankings.