City Profile
Rouen, Normandie
France · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Rouen, a historic city in the Normandy region of France, is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, particularly the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, famously painted by Claude Monet. The city's rich past is evident in its medieval half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, offering a picturesque setting. Rouen attracts residents and visitors alike with its blend of historical charm, vibrant cultural scene, and strategic location on the River Seine. It serves as a significant port city and a hub for various industries, drawing individuals seeking a balance between a dynamic urban environment and a strong connection to history and nature.
Normandy, France, is characterized by its picturesque blend of rolling countryside, historic towns, and a significant coastline along the English Channel. The economy is diverse, with strong agricultural roots, particularly in dairy, cider, and seafood production, alongside robust industrial sectors like automotive, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and logistics concentrated around the Seine Valley and major cities such as Rouen, Caen, and Le Havre. Living in Normandy generally offers a relaxed pace of life with a moderate cost of living compared to other French regions, with housing being notably more affordable than in Paris. The climate is mild and temperate, experiencing humidity and precipitation throughout the year, with cool summers and wet winters.
How this 58/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | No usable reading — dataset average used | 71.3 | 30% | 21.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 83.0 | 65.0 | 25% | 16.3 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: no usable reading Income needed to live here: $21,372 Unemployment rate: 7.54% | 30.8 | 20% | 6.2 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.09% Job growth rate: no usable reading | 52.3 | 15% | 7.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 58.4 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=68, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
5 October 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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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Rouen is considered moderate compared to other major European cities, and generally lower than the national average in France. Housing is the most significant expense, with average rents for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center around $705 (€650) per month. Groceries and dining out are also considerable costs, though more affordable than in larger French cities like Paris. A single person's estimated monthly expenses, including rent, are approximately $1,781 (€1,640), while a family of three can expect to spend around $3,661 (€3,370) per month. These costs are driven by a combination of local market dynamics and the overall economic landscape of France.
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Rouen's job market is diverse, with key industries contributing to its economic stability. The median gross annual salary in Rouen is €26,247 (approximately $28,400 USD), based on data through September 2026. This figure is lower than the national average for France, which stands at €32,800 net per year (approximately $35,500 USD) for a full-time employee in the private sector as of 2024. Major employers are found in sectors such as healthcare, education, logistics, and automotive. While specific job growth rates for Rouen are not readily available, the city's strategic location and port activities suggest a steady demand in logistics and related fields. The remote work scene is growing, aligning with national trends, though specific data for Rouen is limited.
The average salary in Rouen is $28,400 per year. You would need approximately $21,372 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Rouen is facilitated by a comprehensive public transport network, Réseau Astuce, which includes tram lines and frequent buses connecting various districts. Public transport is notably free on Saturdays, and electric river shuttles offer an environmentally friendly way to cross the Seine. The average monthly public transport pass costs around €44 (approximately $48 USD). Rouen also has a good walkability score, especially in its historic center, making it easy to explore on foot. While specific walkability and transit scores for 2026 are not available, the city's infrastructure supports a low to medium car dependency, with park-and-ride facilities available at the city's edges. Traffic congestion in Rouen had an average level of 37.1% in 2025, similar to 2024.
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