City Profile
Amiens, Hauts-de-France
France · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Amiens, the capital of the Hauts-de-France region, is a city steeped in history, with its origins tracing back to Roman times when it was known as Samarobriva. It is renowned for its magnificent Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame d'Amiens, which stands as the largest in France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's character is further shaped by its unique network of floating gardens, the Hortillonnages, often referred to as the "Venice of the North." Amiens offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced lifestyle with access to cultural heritage and natural beauty. Its strategic location, approximately 120 kilometers north of Paris, also provides convenient access to the capital while maintaining a more tranquil pace of life.
Hauts-de-France, France's northernmost region, is characterized by its strategic location bordering Belgium and the English Channel, blending French and Flemish cultures. Its economy, the sixth largest contributor to France's GDP, is driven by a diverse range of industries including automotive, metallurgy, chemicals, and a leading agri-food sector, alongside a growing logistics and services industry. While historically reliant on heavy industry, the region is transitioning towards modern sectors like biotech and digital technology. Living in Hauts-de-France is generally more affordable than the national average, particularly outside of its largest city, Lille, with a climate that experiences cooler winters. The lifestyle offers a mix of urban amenities, historical sites, and access to coastal areas, with a strong emphasis on community and a rich cultural scene.
How this 53/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 57 / 100 | 57.0 | 30% | 17.1 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 95.0 | 50.0 | 25% | 12.5 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $34,111 Income needed to live here: $34,111 Unemployment rate: 4.1% | 49.4 | 20% | 9.9 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.26% Job growth rate: 2.1% | 46.8 | 15% | 7.0 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 53.3 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=66, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
9 September 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Cost of Living
Amiens presents a cost of living that is generally considered moderate, especially when compared to major French cities like Paris or Lyon. The cost of living index in Amiens is estimated to be around 95, indicating it is slightly below the national average. This affordability is a significant draw for residents, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses often associated with larger urban centers. Housing costs, in particular, are more accessible, with rental prices and property values being considerably lower than in more expensive regions.
Income
Salary Insights
Amiens boasts a diverse economy with key sectors including manufacturing, education, healthcare, and services. The city is home to a strong agri-food sector and also has significant activity in logistics, textiles, and automotive parts manufacturing. Major employers include the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (University Hospital Center) with 1,200 beds, and companies like Procter & Gamble, Goodyear, and Valeo have a presence in the region. The city's economic outlook is stable, with a job growth rate of 2.1% and new business growth rate of 3.4%.
The average salary in Amiens is $43,200 per year. You would need approximately $34,111 to live comfortably.
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Mobility
Transport
Getting around Amiens is facilitated by a decent public transportation system, including buses, and a future tramway planned for completion in 2024. The city's walkability score is 60, indicating that many areas are accessible on foot. The average commute time is around 28 minutes, and the transit score is 55, suggesting that public transport is a viable option for many residents. Car dependency is considered medium.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Amiens
What people ask about living in and moving to Amiens, Hauts-de-France.
How does the cost of living in Amiens compare to the rest of France?
Amiens has a cost‑of‑living index of 95, where 100 represents the French national average. This means everyday expenses such as groceries, dining out, and utilities are roughly 5 % lower than in a typical French city. With an average salary of $43,200 per year, most residents find that their earnings comfortably cover housing, transport, and leisure costs. To get a detailed breakdown, you can use online cost‑of‑livin...
What are the main employment sectors for newcomers in Amiens?
Amiens’ economy is diversified, with strong presences in public administration, education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Engineering professionals often find opportunities in the region’s industrial parks, research centers, and companies linked to the automotive and aerospace supply chains. The city also hosts several higher‑education institutions that hire technical staff. Job seekers should explore the regional em...
Are there good public schools for primary‑age children in Amiens?
Amiens offers a network of public primary schools that are overseen by the local education authority. Schools are generally well‑equipped and follow the national curriculum, with options for bilingual or specialized programs in some districts. To assess school quality, you can consult the education authority’s website for inspection reports, enrollment procedures, and catchment area maps. Visiting schools during open...
What paperwork is required for a non‑EU citizen to rent in Amiens?
Non‑EU renters in Amiens must provide proof of identity (passport), a valid residence permit, and evidence of income such as a recent payslip or employment contract. Landlords typically also ask for a guarantor or a bank guarantee, especially if the tenant’s income is below a certain threshold. You’ll need to sign a rental contract that outlines the lease term, rent amount, and deposit (usually one month’s rent). It’...
How safe is Amiens for everyday life?
Amiens’ safety score of 57 out of 100 indicates a moderate level of safety compared with other French cities. Most neighborhoods are safe for walking, shopping, and public transport, though like any urban area, certain districts may experience higher petty‑crime rates, especially after dark. The city’s police department provides regular updates on crime statistics, and neighbourhood watch groups are active in many ar...
Where can I find primary medical care in Amiens?
Amiens has a comprehensive public healthcare system with numerous general practitioners (GPs) spread across the city. Most GPs work in group practices or health centers that also host pharmacies, making it convenient to obtain prescriptions and over‑the‑counter medication. To locate a GP, you can use the national health insurance portal, which lists practitioners by specialty and neighbourhood, or consult the city’s...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Amiens?
In Amiens the average rent across all apartment sizes is about $716 per month. A one‑bedroom unit in the city centre will usually be close to this average, while a similar unit outside the centre can be slightly cheaper. When budgeting, also consider the mandatory security deposit (often one month’s rent) and possible agency fees if you use a rental platform. You can browse local listings on national property website...
What public transport options are available in Amiens?
Amiens is served by a city transit authority that operates a network of bus lines covering the urban core and surrounding suburbs. Tickets can be purchased as single rides, day passes, or monthly subscriptions, which are cost‑effective for daily commuters. The city also has a regional train station with connections to major French cities, useful for occasional longer trips. For cyclists, there are dedicated bike lane...
What free or low‑cost activities are popular among residents?
Amiens offers a range of affordable leisure options. The city’s historic canals and riverbanks provide pleasant walking and cycling routes, while several public parks host free concerts, outdoor cinema nights, and seasonal markets. Cultural institutions such as museums and galleries often have reduced‑price days or free entry for residents. The local library system organizes workshops, language clubs, and exhibitions...
How does the average salary in Amiens compare to living costs?
The average annual salary in Amiami is $43,200, which is slightly below your $45,000 income, giving you a modest surplus. Considering the city’s cost‑of‑living index of 95 (about 5 % cheaper than the national average) and an average rent of $716 per month, your earnings should comfortably cover housing, utilities, transport, and everyday expenses, leaving room for savings or discretionary spending. To manage your bud...
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