According to INSEE, the approximately 520,000 residents of Lyon form a much more diverse tapestry than one might think. As per the data published on Monday, December 8, only a quarter of Lyon's inhabitants were born in the capital of the Gauls. This surprising figure is not unique; it surpasses that of Bordeaux (24%), remains below Paris (30%), and is especially far behind Marseille, where one in two residents is a native of the city. This shows that Lyon is, more than ever, a city of arrivals rather than departures.
A large majority born elsewhere in France
The study also reveals that 27% of Lyon residents were born in other parts of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, while the largest share comes from other corners of France. With its economic dynamism, cultural appeal, and quality of life, Lyon attracts a variety of profiles, including students and working professionals, as well as families.
thousands in search of a human-sized metropolis. Added to this are the 18% of residents born abroad, a figure that confirms the city's growing cosmopolitanism.Marked differences by district
The distribution of natives varies greatly by area: the 4th district ranks first, with a majority of "true Lyonnais." In contrast, the 6th attracts more Parisians, perhaps drawn by its wide avenues and chic atmosphere. The 8th and 9th, however, play some paradoxes: they have a higher concentration of residents born abroad than average (22% compared to 18%), while also housing a significant portion of native Lyonnais. An urban mosaic that reflects all the social and cultural diversity of Lyon.
Despite these variations, one thing is clear: the Lyonnais population continues to grow. Between 2016 and 2022, it increased by 0.2% per year, which is about 850 additional residents.strong annual comments. A moderate but steady progression that confirms the lasting and timeless appeal of our lovely city.