Living Just Outside Paris: The Best Western Suburbs for Expats and Families

When relocating to Paris, most expats naturally focus their apartment search within the city limits. Neighborhoods such as Le Marais, the 6th, 7th, 8th, 16th and 17th arrondissements are often among the most requested, particularly by families, executives, diplomats and international assignees.

However, some of the most desirable residential areas in the Paris region are located just beyond the city's western border. Towns such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Levallois-Perret, Boulogne-Billancourt, Courbevoie and Puteaux offer an exceptional quality of life while remaining closely connected to central Paris.

These western suburbs of Paris combine excellent transportation, green spaces, family-friendly environments, modern housing options and, in many cases, better value for money than comparable properties in Paris itself. For expats who are open to exploring beyond the city limits, these locations can be excellent alternatives.

What many newcomers discover after a few months in Paris is that locals often view these towns not as distant suburbs, but as natural extensions of western Paris. In fact, many residents who begin their Paris experience in the city center eventually move to these nearby western suburbs for more space, a calmer environment and an easier daily lifestyle, while still remaining close to the capital.

The Benefits of Living in the Western Suburbs of Paris

One of the biggest misconceptions among newcomers is that living outside Paris means sacrificing convenience. In reality, the western suburbs are among the most accessible areas in the entire Paris region.

Residents benefit from extensive public transportation networks, including Metro lines, RER trains, tramways, buses and Transilien services, which allow residents to reach central Paris in around 15 to 30 minutes.

For professionals working in La Défense, these locations can make daily commutes much shorter compared to many Paris neighborhoods.

Beyond transportation, the western suburbs of Paris are known for:

• Safe and residential environments
• A calmer and less noisy living environment
• Larger, modern apartments and family-friendly layouts
• Parks and green spaces
• Convenient local amenities
• International communities
• Competitive rental prices compared to central Paris

Let's take a closer look at each area.

Neuilly-sur-Seine: Prestigious Living Between Paris and La Défense

Located immediately west of the 16th and 17th arrondissements, Neuilly-sur-Seine is often considered one of the most prestigious and affluent residential addresses in the Paris region. It offers the elegance and reputation of western Paris while providing a quieter and more residential atmosphere.

Neuilly has long been associated with prominent French figures from politics, business, fashion and culture. Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy served as mayor of Neuilly-sur-Seine for many years, and the city has been home to or associated with numerous well-known personalities over the decades, including fashion designer Pierre Cardin, actress Sophie Marceau, businessman Bernard Arnault, and singer-songwriter Johnny Hallyday.

In France, saying that one lives in Neuilly often carries a certain image of prestige, success and social standing.

Today, Neuilly remains especially popular with diplomats, embassy staff, senior executives, entrepreneurs and international families who appreciate its elegant residential atmosphere, excellent schools and convenient location between central Paris and La Défense.

Location and Transportation

One of Neuilly's greatest advantages is its strategic location. Metro Line 1 runs through the city, providing direct access to the Champs-Élysées, the Louvre area, central Paris and La Défense. Residents can often reach major business districts or central Paris in less than 20 minutes.

Lifestyle and Atmosphere

Neuilly is known for its wide tree-lined avenues, elegant Haussmann-style buildings, luxury residences and peaceful streets. The atmosphere is distinctly residential, making it attractive for those who prefer a calmer environment than central Paris.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities

One of the great advantages of living in Neuilly is how close it is to nature. The Bois de Boulogne is just minutes away, offering a huge green escape for jogging, cycling, walking, tennis, horseback riding or weekend outings with children.

Residents also enjoy several lovely green spaces nearby, including the Jardin d’Acclimatation, Parc de la Folie Saint-James, Parc de la Planchette and Île de la Jatte along the Seine.

Île de la Jatte is especially worth mentioning. This peaceful island is one of the hidden gems of western Paris, with beautiful riverside walks, elegant residences and a charming village-like atmosphere. It is also home to the Tennis Club de Neuilly, making it particularly attractive for tennis enthusiasts. The island is well known for its connection to Impressionist painter Georges Seurat, who captured it in one of his most famous works.

Schools and Family Life

For many families, one of Neuilly’s biggest attractions is the quality of its schools. The city is home to several highly regarded institutions, including Lycée Pasteur, Institution Saint-Dominique and Marymount International School Paris, a popular choice among international families thanks to its English-language curriculum.

Beyond the schools themselves, Neuilly offers an environment that makes family life easy and enjoyable. The streets are safe, there are plenty of childcare options, parks are never far away, and the overall atmosphere is calm and residential.

Housing and Rental Market

Apartments in Neuilly tend to offer more space and comfort than many comparable properties in central Paris. Families especially appreciate the larger floor plans, while features such as balconies, concierge services, underground parking, elevators and better sound insulation are much more common than in many older Parisian buildings.

This is one of the reasons so many families and international tenants are drawn to Neuilly.

Average Rental Prices in Neuilly-sur-Seine:

• One-bedroom apartment: €1,800–€2,500/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: €2,800–€4,500/month
• Three-bedroom family apartment: €4,500–€8,000+/month

While rents remain among the highest in the western suburbs, they can still offer better value than comparable properties in the most prestigious Paris arrondissements.

Levallois-Perret: A Dynamic and Family-Friendly Alternative to Paris

Located just north of Neuilly-sur-Seine and right next to the 17th arrondissement, Levallois-Perret is one of the most convenient suburbs for those who want to stay close to Paris without paying the higher rental prices often associated with Neuilly-sur-Seine.

It has a lively, convenient atmosphere, with shops, outdoor markets, cafés, restaurants, parks and schools all within easy reach. For expats, young professionals, couples and families, Levallois offers a great balance: you remain just minutes from central Paris, while enjoying a slightly more affordable housing market, a calmer environment and a practical, neighborhood-oriented lifestyle.

Location and Transportation

Levallois is very well connected to Paris, mainly through Metro Line 3, with stations such as Louise Michel, Anatole France and Pont de Levallois–Bécon. From these stations, residents can reach central Paris in around 15 to 25 minutes, including areas such as Saint-Lazare, Opéra and the 8th arrondissement.

Levallois is also served by Transilien Line L from Clichy–Levallois station, allowing residents to reach Paris Saint-Lazare in about 5 minutes and La Défense in around 10 to 15 minutes.

Lifestyle and Local Amenities

One of Levallois’ strongest assets is its lively and convenient local life. The city has everything needed for daily comfort, from cafés, bakeries and restaurants to supermarkets, fitness centers, pharmacies and local shopping streets. In many parts of Levallois, daily life can be managed almost entirely on foot.

Residents also enjoy several traditional food markets, such as the Marché Henri Barbusse and Marché de l’Europe, which are popular places to buy fresh produce, cheese, flowers and other local products. For more modern shopping, the So Ouest shopping mall offers a wide choice of fashion, beauty, home and lifestyle stores, as well as restaurants and a cinema.

A Well-Managed and Modern City

Levallois is often praised for its cleanliness, well-maintained public spaces and efficient local services.

Family-Friendly Environment

Families are often attracted to Levallois because it makes everyday life easy. The city has a safe and residential atmosphere, but also plenty of parks, schools, sports facilities and activities for children.

You will find plenty of green spaces such as Parc de la Planchette, Parc des Cinq Continents, Parc Gustave Eiffel and the riverside promenades along the Seine, which offer pleasant places for children to play, walk or spend time outdoors.

Housing Options

Levallois offers a good mix of modern residences and renovated older buildings. Compared with many apartments in central Paris, homes here often feel more spacious, better laid out and easier to live in day to day.

Average rental prices in Levallois-Perret:

• One-bedroom apartment: €1,300–€1,800/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: €1,600–€2,800/month
• Three-bedroom apartment: €2,500–€3,900/month

Levallois generally offers slightly lower rents than Neuilly while maintaining excellent proximity to Paris.

Boulogne-Billancourt: One of the Best Areas Near Paris for Families

Boulogne-Billancourt is the largest suburb bordering Paris and one of the most popular destinations for international families relocating to the French capital.

Located next to the 16th arrondissement, Boulogne offers a unique combination of residential comfort, green spaces, cultural amenities and excellent transportation.

Location and Transportation

Boulogne is very well connected to western Paris, especially through Metro Lines 9 and 10. You can easily reach the 16th arrondissement in just a few minutes, and central Paris in around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the exact neighborhood and destination.

This makes Boulogne very convenient for families with children attending schools in western Paris, as well as for professionals working near the 16th arrondissement or La Défense.

However, journeys to the eastern side of Paris can take longer, so it is always important to consider your daily commute before choosing a specific neighborhood.

A Diverse and International Community

Boulogne attracts a large international population, including executives, entrepreneurs and expatriate families. Many professionals working in technology, media, automotive, healthcare and multinational companies choose Boulogne because several major corporate headquarters and business hubs are located in or near the city, such as Renault, TF1, FDJ, Ipsen and Canal+.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Activities

One of Boulogne’s biggest advantages is how close it is to nature. Residents have easy access to some of the most beautiful green spaces in western Paris, including:

• Bois de Boulogne
• Parc de Saint-Cloud
• Jardin Albert-Kahn
• Parc Edmond-de-Rothschild
• Île Seguin and its riverside walks

This makes Boulogne especially appealing for people who enjoy spending time outdoors. Whether it is jogging, cycling, walking along the Seine or taking children to the park, there are plenty of options for enjoying fresh air without leaving the area.

A local favorite is the Albert-Kahn Museum and Gardens, one of the most peaceful and underrated gardens near Paris. Its Japanese-inspired landscapes offer a beautiful escape from the city and are particularly appreciated by residents looking for a quiet weekend outing.

Family Life and Education

Boulogne is especially popular with families because it offers a safe, residential and family-friendly environment.

Education is another reason many families choose Boulogne. The city has several well-regarded French schools, including Lycée Jacques Prévert, Collège Bartholdi and Groupe Scolaire Dupanloup, as well as international and bilingual options such as Open Sky International, a French-English bilingual school located in Boulogne-Billancourt.

Families also benefit from easy access to other international and bilingual schools in western Paris, including the International School of Paris in the 16th arrondissement.

Housing and Neighborhoods

Boulogne offers a wide range of housing options, from charming older apartments to modern residences with terraces, elevators and parking.

Boulogne Nord is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods, especially for families who want to be close to the 16th arrondissement, the Bois de Boulogne and some of the area’s best schools. Around Marcel Sembat and Billancourt, the atmosphere is more local and lively, with shops, restaurants, markets and convenient transport nearby.

Average Rental Prices in Boulogne-Billancourt:

• One-bedroom apartment: €1,200–€2,200/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: €1,600–€3,200/month
• Three-bedroom apartment: €2,500–€4,000/month

Boulogne often provides excellent value for families seeking larger apartments close to Paris. Its rental prices are also generally more affordable than in Neuilly-sur-Seine.

Courbevoie: Ideal for Professionals Working in La Défense

Located directly adjacent to La Défense, Courbevoie has become increasingly popular among international professionals and corporate employees.

The city offers a practical and comfortable lifestyle with excellent transportation and a wide range of housing options.

Location and Transportation

Courbevoie enjoys excellent connectivity through Metro Line 1, RER A, Transilien trains, tramway T2 and buses. Depending on the neighborhood, residents can reach La Défense in just a few minutes, either on foot or by public transport.

The Champs-Élysées can be reached in around 10 to 15 minutes, Châtelet–Les Halles in about 15 minutes by RER A, and the Louvre or Hôtel de Ville area in around 20 to 25 minutes by metro.

In addition, Bécon-les-Bruyères station is served by Transilien Line L, which provides direct trains to Paris Saint-Lazare in around 10 minutes, offering quick access to central Paris.

A Strategic Choice for Professionals

For executives and employees working in La Défense, Courbevoie can significantly reduce commuting times. Living close to work allows residents to enjoy more free time while maintaining easy access to Paris.

Residential Neighborhoods and Local Charm

Although Courbevoie is very close to La Défense, many parts of the city feel surprisingly calm, safe and residential. Away from the business district, you find quiet streets, local shops, markets, cafés and a more relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

Green Spaces and Riverside Living

Courbevoie also offers plenty of places to enjoy fresh air and spend time outdoors. Residents can walk through Parc de Bécon, Parc Diderot or Parc de Lattre de Tassigny, or enjoy a stroll along the Seine and its riverside promenades.

Housing Opportunities

Courbevoie offers a good mix of modern residences, family apartments and newer developments, often with more practical layouts than those found in central Paris. For many expats and professionals, it is an attractive option because rental prices are generally more affordable than in areas such as Neuilly-sur-Seine, Levallois-Perret or the most sought-after western Paris neighborhoods.

Average Rental Prices in Courbevoie:

• One-bedroom apartment: €1,200–€1,800/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: €1,500–€2,600/month
• Three-bedroom apartment: €2,400–€4,000/month

Puteaux: Village Atmosphere with Direct Access to La Défense

Puteaux is often overlooked by newcomers, but it is one of the most interesting places to live in western Paris. It sits right next to La Défense, making it very convenient for professionals, yet it still keeps a calm and local atmosphere.

Location and Transportation

Puteaux is very well connected, especially for anyone working in or around La Défense. The town is served by Transilien trains, tramway T2, and nearby Metro and RER connections through La Défense.

Depending on where you live, La Défense can be reached in just a few minutes, sometimes even on foot. From La Défense, the Champs-Élysées is around 10 to 15 minutes away by Metro Line 1, and Châtelet–Les Halles can be reached in about 15 minutes by RER A. Puteaux station also offers direct trains to Paris Saint-Lazare in around 15 minutes.

A Charming Town Center

One of the nicest surprises about Puteaux is its town center. While La Défense is known for its towers and modern business atmosphere, central Puteaux feels much more traditional, residential and local. You find quiet streets, weekly markets, cafés, bakeries, small restaurants and independent shops, giving the area a warm neighborhood feeling.

It is also a calm, family-friendly and very safe place to live, which makes it especially attractive for expats who want to stay close to La Défense and Paris while enjoying a more peaceful everyday environment.

Family-Friendly Lifestyle

Puteaux offers plenty of activities for children and parents. Families can enjoy sports facilities, cultural venues, parks, schools and local events without needing to go into Paris every weekend.

The Palais des Sports is one of the city’s main advantages, with facilities such as swimming pools, fitness areas, dance rooms and other sports activities. Puteaux also has many municipal sports structures, as well as tennis courts and outdoor recreation areas on Île de Puteaux. For culture and activities, the Palais de la Culture offers workshops, shows, concerts and events throughout the year.

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

The city of Puteaux offers numerous parks, playgrounds and public gardens, including:

• Parc Lebaudy
• Jardin des Roses
• Parc du Moulin
• Île de Puteaux
• Seine riverbanks and walking paths

Residents also benefit from easy access to nearby green spaces around La Défense and the Seine.

Île de Puteaux is particularly popular among local families thanks to its sports facilities, swimming pools, tennis courts and outdoor recreation areas.

Housing Market

Puteaux offers a good variety of housing options, from modern apartments near La Défense to more traditional residences in the town center. Compared with central Paris and some of the more expensive western suburbs, rental prices in Puteaux are generally more affordable.

Average rental prices in Puteaux:

• One-bedroom apartment: €1,200–€2,100/month
• Two-bedroom apartment: €1,900–€2,600/month
• Three-bedroom apartment: €2,500–€3,000/month

Many properties provide excellent value compared to central Paris.

Green Spaces and Outdoor Living Near Paris

One of the biggest advantages of the western suburbs is easy access to green spaces. For expats who are used to having parks, riverside walks or outdoor activities close to home, this can make daily life feel much more comfortable.

Bois de Boulogne

Located between Paris, Neuilly and Boulogne, the Bois de Boulogne is one of the area’s greatest assets. Residents can go there for jogging, cycling, tennis, rowing, family walks or simply to enjoy a large green escape just minutes from home.

The park is also home to the Hippodrome de Longchamp, a well-known horse racing venue, and several equestrian facilities where horse riding enthusiasts can take lessons or enjoy riding in a unique setting close to Paris.

If you enjoy golf, the Golf de Paris Longchamp is also located within the park, offering the rare opportunity to play in a peaceful green setting while still being just a few minutes from central Paris.

Parc de Saint-Cloud

Close to Boulogne, the Parc de Saint-Cloud is another favorite for families and outdoor lovers. With its large lawns, panoramic views over Paris and peaceful walking paths, it is ideal for weekend picnics, children’s outings or a quiet walk away from the city. The park is also popular with runners and tennis players, with several sports facilities nearby and plenty of space for outdoor activities.

Jardin d’Acclimatation and Jardin Albert-Kahn

The Jardin d’Acclimatation is especially popular with families, thanks to its attractions, playgrounds and activities for children. In Boulogne, the Jardin Albert-Kahn offers a completely different atmosphere, with beautiful Japanese-inspired gardens that feel calm and almost hidden from the city.

Local Parks and Riverside Walks

Beyond the larger parks, each town has its own green spaces, such as Parc de la Planchette in Levallois, Parc de Bécon in Courbevoie and Île de Puteaux. The Seine riverbanks are also perfect for walking, jogging or cycling, especially on weekends.

This access to nature is one of the reasons many expats enjoy living just outside Paris. You remain close to the city, but outdoor life becomes easier, more natural and part of everyday routine.

Best Country Clubs, Golf Courses and Private Sports Clubs in Western Paris

One thing many expats appreciate about the western suburbs of Paris is the access to some of the most prestigious country clubs, golf courses and private sports clubs in the Paris region. Beyond the facilities themselves, these clubs often serve as social and community hubs where families, professionals and international residents can meet, build connections and enjoy an active lifestyle.

Paris Country Club

The Paris Country Club, located in Rueil-Malmaison, is one of the best-known clubs in the area. It's popular with both French and international families thanks to its wide range of facilities, including tennis, padel, golf, swimming pools, fitness areas, wellness facilities and restaurants.

One of its advantages is how easy it is to reach from the western suburbs of Paris: by car, it is typically around 10 to 15 minutes from Neuilly-sur-Seine and about 15 to 20 minutes from Boulogne-Billancourt. Many members enjoy it as much for the social side as for the sports, making it a great place to spend weekends or meet other families living nearby.

Golf de Saint-Cloud

For golf enthusiasts, Golf de Saint-Cloud is one of the most respected clubs in the Paris region. Set in a beautiful green environment between Garches, Vaucresson and Rueil-Malmaison, it offers two 18-hole courses and stunning views over Paris. Residents of Neuilly, Boulogne, Puteaux and Courbevoie can typically reach the club in around 15 to 30 minutes by car, making it a convenient option for regular golfers.

Golf de Paris Longchamp

For those looking for a golf option closer to the city, Golf de Paris Longchamp is located right in the Bois de Boulogne. Its convenient location makes it particularly attractive for residents of Neuilly and Boulogne who want to practice golf without spending too much time travelling.

Safe and Convenient Neighborhoods for International Residents

Safety, convenience and quality of life are often top priorities for international tenants.

Recent recorded crime statistics also help put this into perspective. In 2025, Courbevoie recorded around 43.7 crimes and offences per 1,000 inhabitants, Neuilly-sur-Seine around 50.0, Boulogne-Billancourt around 50.7 and Levallois-Perret around 52.3. By comparison, Paris recorded around 109.6 per 1,000 inhabitants.

Of course, statistics never tell the whole story, but they support what many expat families notice after moving here: daily life often feels calmer, safer and more residential than in many central Paris neighborhoods.

Should You Consider Living Outside Paris?

Absolutely.

For many expats, limiting a property search to Paris alone means overlooking some of the region's most attractive residential areas.

Neuilly-sur-Seine, Levallois-Perret, Boulogne-Billancourt, Courbevoie and Puteaux offer the perfect combination of accessibility, comfort, safety and lifestyle. Whether you are relocating with your family, moving for work, joining an embassy or starting a new assignment in France, these western suburbs near Paris deserve a place on your shortlist.

The reality is that many long-term expats who initially insist on living in central Paris eventually discover these western suburbs and wish they had considered them sooner. They offer a uniquely Parisian lifestyle — cafés, markets, elegant architecture and excellent public transportation — combined with more space, greenery and everyday comfort.

At Paris Rental, we help expats, international companies, embassies and families find the right home in Paris and its most desirable surrounding neighborhoods. If you're considering the western suburbs, our team can help you identify the area that best matches your lifestyle, budget and commuting needs.

Looking for a home near Paris? Discover our available apartment rentals in western Paris and find the right place to settle with confidence.

Editor: Siyi CHEN

Photo by Faruk Tokluoğlu on Unsplash.