A recent report from the European Commission paints a troubling picture for Marseille, ranking it among the least safe and dirtiest cities in Europe. Unlike other major French cities such as Paris, Bordeaux, and Nice, which escaped these unfavorable rankings, Marseille finds itself in an unenviable position.

A Ranking That Raises Concerns

The findings stem from a large-scale European survey involving 71,153 residents across several major cities. The study assessed key factors like safety, cleanliness, quality of life, and corruption. While cities such as Antwerp, Kraków, Turin, Malmö, and Zurich were analyzed, Marseille stood out—for the wrong reasons.

According to the results, Marseille ranks as the third dirtiest and least safe city in Europe, trailing only Palermo and Rome. This assessment risks further tarnishing the city’s already mixed reputation, which balances between its extraordinary cultural heritage and persistent urban challenges.

Cleanliness Under Scrutiny

The report highlights a significant issue: 65% of Marseille’s residents view their green spaces as subpar. Complaints about park maintenance, waste management, and street cleanliness are common, with some neighborhoods suffering from worsening neglect. Many locals express frustration, feeling their city has been abandoned in certain areas.

When compared to other European cities, Marseille struggles to maintain cleanliness. Cities such as Zurich, Luxembourg, and Copenhagen consistently rank among the cleanest, setting a high bar with their well-kept public spaces and efficient waste disposal systems.

Safety Concerns on the Rise

Marseille also faces serious security concerns. Only 43% of residents report feeling safe in their city—a stark contrast to cities like Copenhagen (87%), Oviedo (87%), Braga (84%), and Zurich (86%).

This pervasive sense of insecurity is fueled by ongoing violent incidents, particularly in certain neighborhoods where tensions remain high.

Despite these unflattering rankings, Marseille remains a city of undeniable strengths. Its rich cultural and historical legacy, Mediterranean charm, and increasing investments in sustainability continue to attract both tourists and investors.

However, critical challenges persist. Improving safety, cleanliness, and overall quality of life will be crucial for local authorities striving to reshape the city’s image and enhance daily living conditions for its residents.