Safety

Safety in France

France is a safe country for expats and visitors, though awareness of specific risks helps you stay secure.

Overall Safety

France ranks 35th globally in safety indexes—safer than the US (20th), similar to Japan and Czech Republic.

Key statistics:

• Violent crime significantly lower than US
• Homicide rate: ~1.3 per 100,000 (US: ~6.3)
• Most crime is non-violent (theft, property)

Paris Safety

Crime rates by type:

• Pickpocketing: 67.88% (highest concern)
• Verbal harassment: 64.58%
• Drug dealing: 64.86%
• Violent crime: Relatively low

Safety perception:

• Daytime: 62.59% feel safe
• Nighttime: 35.89% feel safe

Note: Paris safety perception is affected by petty crime but violent incidents affecting tourists are rare.

Main Safety Concerns

1. Pickpocketing

The primary risk for visitors and new residents:

• Paris metro (especially Line 1, tourist areas)
• RER B from CDG airport
• Major tourist sites (Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Sacré-Cœur)
• Crowded markets and events

Prevention:

• Use inside pockets or cross-body bags
• Keep phones secure, not in back pocket
• Be aware in crowded spaces
• Watch for distraction techniques

2. Scams

Common tourist scams:

• Petition signers (while accomplice pickpockets)
• Ring scam (found "gold" ring)
• Friendship bracelet scam
• Fake charity collectors

Prevention: Simply say "Non, merci" and walk away.

3. Protests

France has strong protest culture:

• Demonstrations can be large and sometimes turn violent
• Usually announced in advance
• Avoid protest areas
• Saturday afternoons common for marches

Safe vs. Less Safe Areas

Paris safest arrondissements:

• 16th, 7th, 8th, 6th (affluent areas)
• Outer arrondissements often safer than central

Areas requiring more awareness:

• Gare du Nord surroundings at night
• Parts of 18th, 19th, 20th at night
• Les Halles late night

Most dangerous French cities:

• Marseille (higher crime than Paris)
• Grenoble, Montpellier (some areas)

Emergency Numbers