Rennes - France

Nestled in the picturesque east of Brittany, Rennes is a vibrant city where history and modernity seamlessly blend. At the confluence of the Ille and Vilaine rivers, it serves as both the prefecture of the Brittany region and the heart of the Ille-et-Vilaine department. With an urban area population of 357,327 in 2017 and a metropolitan total reaching nearly 740,000 residents, Rennes is more than just its numbers—it's a testament to strategic urban planning and a commitment to enhancing quality of life for its inhabitants. Rennes' excellence is reflected through its stellar performance across multiple facets. The city boasts an impressive amenities score of 'A', indicative of abundant public services and facilities that cater to diverse needs, ranging from retail spaces to recreational areas. This level of accessibility enhances the overall living experience, cementing Rennes’ reputation as one of France's most liveable cities. Transportation in Rennes is another area where the city excels. With a commute score also rated 'A', it underscores efficient public transit services that ease daily commutes and contribute to sustainable urban development. The introduction of a Metro line in 2002, a noteworthy achievement for a city its size, reflects forward-thinking land use policies. This commitment to effective local transport systems is further supported by the comprehensive network of tram stops and bus routes that facilitate seamless navigation across the city. The culture and entertainment offerings in Rennes are vibrant and diverse, as evidenced by an 'A-' score. The city's historical richness, combined with modern artistic endeavors, provides a dynamic cultural scene. From its historic center, filled with medieval architecture, to contemporary art exhibitions, Rennes offers both residents and visitors a well-rounded cultural experience. Education is another cornerstone of life in Rennes, highlighted by the highest 'A+' score for childcare and education. Home to over 66,000 students and ranking as France's eighth-largest university campus, it underscores the city’s strong emphasis on academic excellence and access to educational resources. This environment not only nurtures young minds but also attracts professionals, fostering a robust intellectual community. While Rennes excels in many areas, there are opportunities for growth, particularly concerning noise levels and the NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) score. With a 'D-' noise rating, addressing urban soundscapes through sustainable urban redevelopment is an area ripe for innovation. Similarly, efforts to engage communities more inclusively may help improve the NIMBY score over time. Rennes’ public transport system, innovative land zoning practices, and ongoing urban redevelopment projects significantly contribute to its high standing in quality of life indices. The city's strategic approach to housing and healthcare access further bolsters its appeal as a model for urban livability analysis. Despite challenges, Rennes continues to strive toward enhancing its living quality index. In conclusion, Rennes stands out as an exemplar of how historical charm can coexist with modern advancements. Its commitment to improving areas like noise control while maintaining high standards in transport and education makes it not only a desirable place to live but also a potential leader in climbing the city livability rankings. With ongoing efforts in sustainable urban development, Rennes is well-positioned to enhance its global liveability index, offering an inspiring blueprint for cities worldwide.

Rennes

Country: France

Population: 227830

Elevation: 74.0 metre

Area: 50.39 square kilometre

Web: http://metropole.rennes.fr/

Overall score

Total

Amenities

Childcare & Education

A+

Commute

Culture & Entertainment

A-

Health

B-

NIMBY

C+

Noise

D-