City Profile
Roubaix, Hauts-de-France
France · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Roubaix, a city in northern France within the Lille metropolitan area and close to the Belgian border, boasts a rich industrial heritage, particularly in textiles, which shaped its identity for centuries. Once a powerhouse of industry, Roubaix has undergone significant transformation, reinventing itself as a hub for culture, arts, and gastronomy. Its unique character is evident in its historic workers' houses ('courées') and its embrace of former industrial spaces for modern use, offering a blend of historical depth and contemporary dynamism. People are drawn to Roubaix for its more affordable cost of living compared to neighboring Lille, its growing cultural scene, and its strategic location within a vibrant European region.
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 44/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 45 / 100 | 45.0 | 30% | 13.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 106.0 | 36.3 | 25% | 9.1 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: no usable reading Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 7.54% | 30.8 | 20% | 6.2 |
| Growth | No usable reading — dataset average used | 56.4 | 15% | 8.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 43.7 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=67, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
14 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.
Featured Events
Happening in Roubaix
Featured and sponsored events in Roubaix.
Local Directory
Businesses in Roubaix
Featured local businesses in Roubaix.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
Roubaix offers a more accessible cost of living compared to many other French cities, particularly its larger neighbor, Lille. The average cost of living is estimated at $1602 per month for an individual, placing it within the top 38% of the most expensive cities globally but ranking it more moderately within France. This relative affordability is a significant draw for residents and businesses alike. While specific breakdowns for utilities and food are not readily available with precise figures, general estimates suggest that housing and transportation costs are more budget-friendly, contributing to its overall appeal as a place to live and work.
Income
Salary Insights
Historically driven by the textile industry, Roubaix's economy has evolved significantly, moving towards retail, culture, and services. While specific job growth rates and new business creation figures are not readily available, the city is actively working to revitalize its economic landscape. The average annual salary is estimated at approximately $48,335 USD, reflecting a compensation level that aligns with its position as a more affordable urban center. The city's strategic location and ongoing cultural development suggest potential for growth in sectors related to tourism, creative industries, and specialized manufacturing.
The average salary in Roubaix is $48,335 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Roubaix is well-connected within the Lille metropolitan area through an extensive public transportation network. The city is served by the Lille Metro (Line 2), trams, and numerous bus lines, facilitating easy movement within Roubaix and to neighboring towns. The train station provides regional connections, and the journey to Lille takes approximately 20 minutes by metro. While public transport is efficient, it does not operate late into the night, requiring alternative options for late-hour travel. Car dependency is considered medium, given the available public transit options.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Roubaix
Community Q&A
Questions about Roubaix
What people ask about living in and moving to Roubaix, Hauts-de-France.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Roubaix
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Roubaix with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing