Since France does not officially collect data on religious affiliation due to its principle of laïcité (separation of church and state), there are no official statistics on the number of Muslims in specific cities. The available information is based on estimates and studies.
However, there are some cities and regions in France known to have higher numbers of Muslims due to historical and social factors. Here are some cities with significant Muslim populations, based on estimates:
1. **Marseille**:
Marseille is estimated to have a Muslim population of about 20-30%. It is often cited as the city with the largest Muslim population in France.
2. **Paris and Seine-Saint-Denis (a department in the Paris metropolitan area)**:
The Muslim population in Paris is estimated at around 10-15%, while in the Seine-Saint-Denis department, it could be significantly higher, possibly around 30-40%.
3. **Lyon**:
Lyon also has a significant Muslim population, estimated at about 10-15%.
4. **Toulouse**:
The Muslim population in Toulouse is estimated at around 10-12%.
5. **Lille**:
Lille and the surrounding region in northern France also have a significant Muslim community, estimated at around 15-20%.
These percentages are estimates and may vary depending on the source and methodology. They are based on demographic studies that consider factors such as countries of origin, immigration background, and ethnic affiliation.
