Real Estate: The Quietest Neighborhoods in Paris … and the Rest
Which neighborhoods in Paris are the noisiest, and where can you find some peace and quiet?
Unsurprisingly, the 18th arrondissement tops the list of the capital’s noisiest neighborhoods, with noise levels reaching 59.1 decibels (dB), according to a survey of 1,500 housing units conducted by the online rental management website Flatlooker.
The 17th arrondissement is also among the worst offenders, with a noise level of 56.5 dB. The noisiest area is primarily in Batignolles, in the 17th arrondissement, due to the development of the Clichy-Batignolles urban renewal zone (ZAC).
Even the prestigious 7th arrondissement does not rank well in terms of quietness, with a notable noise level of 55.7 dB. In 2019, it was already among the noisiest neighborhoods, but in 2020, the lockdown led to a dramatic drop in noise levels of -12 dB. Traffic was reduced following the closure of the Eiffel Tower. Nevertheless, by 2023, it had regained its place among the worst performers. The Gros-Caillou neighborhood, in particular, is crisscrossed by numerous busy thoroughfares, contributing to high noise levels.
It is important to note, however, that noise levels can vary depending on a unit’s location within a building. If the unit faces a garden or courtyard, the average noise level measured by Flatlooker’s teams in Paris is 37 dB with the windows closed and 43.2 dB with the windows open. On the other hand, if the unit faces a busy street, the average noise level is 38.4 dB with the windows closed and 48.5 dB with the windows open.
Fortunately, it is possible to find peaceful neighborhoods right in the heart of Paris. The 2nd arrondissement, for example, is considered the quietest neighborhood in Paris, with a noise level of 42.3 dB. “The 2nd arrondissement has the lowest noise level in Paris due to its low population density,” notes Nicolas Goyet.
The 9th arrondissement is also a good choice, with a noise level of 43.5 dB. Its neighborhoods are primarily residential, creating a more tranquil atmosphere. Small parks also help to dampen noise.
