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Les Ulis
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Les Ulis (French pronunciation: [lez‿ylis] ⓘ) is a commune in the Essonne department, 23 km (14 mi) from the centre of Paris, France. A planned community, it comprises outer suburbs (banlieues) built in the 1970s on the southwestern edge of the Paris metropolitan area. As of 2023, the population of the commune was 25,886.[3]
Key Information
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Location
[edit]Les Ulis is a new town located in the Île-de-France, in the south-west of the Parisian agglomeration and in the north-west of the Essonne department. It sits on the Courtabœuf plateau which dominates the Yvette valley, also known as the Chevreuse valley. It is 23 km to the south-west of central Paris, 20 km north-west of Évry and 14 km to the south-east of Versailles.
Geography
[edit]The town is laid out in the form of a U, approximately three kilometres by two kilometres, and covers 680 hectares. Over 65% of the area is built-up, 17% is semi-rural and 16% is either rural or comprises communal green space.[4] The French Institut Géographique National gives the co-ordinates of the town as 48°40'56" N and 02°10'03" E at the central point.
The source of the minor river Rouillon (river) is in the neighbouring town of Villejust, close to the communal border. The lowest point of the town, at the point where it meets Bures-sur-Yvette, is at an altitude of 87m. Most of the town is situated at an average altitude of over 150m. Its highest point is at 170m. The land on which it is built consists of clay, sand and millstone.
The town is divided into distinct neighbourhoods by the main roads running through it. To the east is a large industrial zone. To the west is the residential area, a large part of which consists of 33 HLM tower blocks, grouped into four neighbourhoods.
The town was conceived and built in the 1970s according to the precepts of Le Corbusier by architects Robert Camelot, François Prieur and Georges-Henri Pingusson. Its tower blocks are raised on slabs so that they are accessed above street level by means of pedestrian walkways. The town incorporates a large urban park, to the north.
Transport
[edit]Line B of the RER runs through the Chevreuse and local bus services give access to the train stations at Orsay and Bures-sur-Yvette.
Les Ulis finds itself at a significant meeting point of motorways. The most significant of these, the route nationale 118, meets the route nationale 104 at an interchange on the communal border with the town of Marcoussis.
History
[edit] |
The discovery in 1977 of Bronze Age tools in the neighbouring town of Villejust suggests the possibility of pre-historic human occupation of the area that is today Les Ulis. During the Roman era, villas rustica occupied the Courtabœuf plateau. One, the "Villa Bona" gives its name to nearby Villebon-sur-Yvette. A number were constructed by a property owner named Uslo, whose name might conceivably be connected to that of Les Ulis. It is also possible that the name is related to the Old French usler, meaning to raze by fire. The area was at one time wooded, but was cleared during the Middle Ages.
The name "Ullys" is first recorded as that of a feudal fee in a monastic inventory of 1382. In 1712, this land is recorded as belonging to Charles Boucher, an important Parisian civil servant. In 1767, it was transferred to Count Pierre Gaspard Marie Grimod d'Orsay.
A significant farm of 160 hectares, the Grand Vivier, occupied much of the land. It raised cattle and sheep and cultivated wheat, potato, strawberry and beet. There was also a distillery on the land.
The Ligne de Sceaux railway opened in 1867, passing just to the west of the present-day town.
The development of the Courtabœuf industrial park was decided on in 1960, accompanied on 30 November that year by a decision to create a priority development zone for ten thousand homes to sit alongside it. 265 hectares of land comprising four farms, previously belonging to the communes of Bures-sur-Yvette and Orsay, were set aside for this housing project.
On 13 March 1964, an urban district of Bures-Orsay was established to oversee the development of the area. Road and utilities for the industrial zone were completed by July 1966, with the first business, AtoChem (part of what is now Total S.A.), moving in the following year. Hewlett-Packard created its French headquarters in the industrial zone in 1968. In the same year, the first residents moved into Les Ulis, although running water was not yet available in all homes.
The first municipal council for Les Ulis was elected in 1971. In 1973, a shopping centre, Ulis 2, was opened under the auspices of Carrefour.
A census of 1975 records 20,283 people living in Les Ulis. Because this was significantly greater than the populations of both Bures-sur-Yvette and Orsay, which shared administrative responsibility for the town, a local plebiscite was held on 14 March 1976 to decide between three propositions: maintaining the status quo; creating a new commune comprising the three towns; creating a new commune for Les Ulis. Just over 50% of voters in Orsay and Bures-sur-Yvette favoured the last option, whereas a majority in Les Ulis favoured a commune comprising the three towns. Both municipal councils voted in favour of the creation of a new commune for Les Ulis. The Prefect of Essonne, Paul Cousserand, created Les Ulis as the 196th commune of the department on 17 February 1977.
In March 1977, Paul Lorident was elected mayor of Les Ulis, whilst the town remained in construction. He oversaw the building of a town hall, a market, a hybrid library and a cultural centre, named after the writer Boris Vian.
In 1985, it became the seat of a canton.
Population
[edit]Inhabitants of Les Ulis are known as Ulissiens.
| Year | Pop. | ±% p.a. |
|---|---|---|
| 1975 | 20,316 | — |
| 1982 | 28,256 | +4.83% |
| 1990 | 27,197 | −0.48% |
| 1999 | 25,785 | −0.59% |
| 2007 | 24,528 | −0.62% |
| 2012 | 24,783 | +0.21% |
| 2017 | 25,208 | +0.34% |
| 2023 | 25,886 | +0.44% |
| Source: INSEE[3] | ||
Notable people
[edit]- Retired football player Thierry Henry, who played for the France national team, was born and raised in Les Ulis.
- Manchester United football player Anthony Martial grew up in Les Ulis and played for the local football team CO Les Ulis as a child.[5]
- Football player Patrice Evra, who played for the France national team, was raised in Les Ulis.
- The former spokesman of the ecological French party, Stéphane Pocrain, was raised in Les Ulis and was almost elected for the town's constituency (with the other towns of Gif-sur-Yvette, Orsay etc...) in 2002.
- Supermodel Noémie Lenoir was born in Les Ulis before her family moved to a very quiet life first in Gif-sur-Yvette and then in Versailles where she was discovered and started her career in modeling.
- Writer Patrick Lapeyre (author of the award-winning L'homme-sœur) is a teacher in Les Ulis' high school (Lycée de l'Essouriau).
- Rapper Sinik, was born central Paris, moved to Les Ulis at age four.
- Gilbert Bayiha N'Djema, footballer
- Tristan Dingome, footballer
- Moussa Marega, footballer
- Abdoulaye Cissoko, footballer
- Patrice Vigier, self-taught luthier and founder of Vigier Guitars, was originally from Les Ulis.[6]
Economy
[edit]The biggest industrial area (tertiary) in Europe[7] is concentrated in Parc d'Activité de Courtabœuf (area: 378 ha) with more than 1,000 companies employing 24,500 people. This area is spread over three communes: Les Ulis (mainly), Villebon-sur-Yvette and Villejust. Many companies such as Hewlett-Packard and Apple have their French head offices in this area.
Twin towns – sister cities
[edit]
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Répertoire national des élus: les maires". data.gouv.fr, Plateforme ouverte des données publiques françaises (in French). 2 December 2020.
- ^ "Populations de référence 2023" (in French). National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies. 18 December 2025.
- ^ a b Population municipale entre 1968 et 2023, INSEE
- ^ "IAU - Occupation du sol simplifiée en 2008". Archived from the original on 25 April 2012. Retrieved 14 November 2011. Retrieved 1 November 2010.
- ^ "Anthony Martial: The making of Manchester United's star". BBC Sport. Retrieved 24 October 2015.
- ^ "Notre Histoire - Vigier Guitars". vigierpro.com. Retrieved 4 January 2020. [Site no longer accessible to general public and page not archived in Wayback Machine, but relevant information still returned in Google search-results snippet.]
- ^ Courtabœuf history Official website Deprecated link archived 23 July 2012 at archive.today (in French)
- ^ "Jumelages". lesulis.fr (in French). Les Ulis. Archived from the original on 13 April 2021. Retrieved 12 March 2021.
External links
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Les Ulis.
- Official website (in French)
- Mayors of Essonne Association (in French)
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Les Ulis
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Geography
Location
Les Ulis is a commune situated in the Essonne department of the Île-de-France region in north-central France.[8] It lies approximately 23 kilometers southwest of central Paris, forming part of the southwestern suburbs of the capital.[9] The commune's geographical coordinates are 48°40′56″N 2°10′11″E.[10] Administratively, Les Ulis belongs to the arrondissement of Palaiseau and serves as the seat of the canton of Les Ulis.[11] It is integrated into the Communauté d'agglomération Paris-Saclay, which encompasses several neighboring municipalities in the area.[4] The commune borders Orsay to the north, Bures-sur-Yvette to the west, Villebon-sur-Yvette to the northeast, Villejust to the east, Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard to the south, and Marcoussis to the southeast, all within the Saclay plateau region known for its scientific and technological developments.[12][13]Topography and hydrography
Les Ulis occupies an area of 5.18 km² on the Courtabœuf plateau, a prominent elevated feature in the Hurepoix region of the Essonne department. This plateau setting defines much of the commune's physical landscape, providing a relatively flat expanse that contrasts with the surrounding lower-lying areas. The majority of the territory lies within this plateau, which historically supported agricultural activities before urban development.[14][11] The topography of Les Ulis features a moderate elevation range, from a minimum of 87 m near the boundary with Bures-sur-Yvette to a maximum of 170 m, with an average elevation of 155 m. This variation reflects the commune's position on the plateau's edge, where gentle slopes descend toward adjacent valleys. The highest points are typically found in the central and northern sectors, while the lower elevations occur along the southern and western fringes.[15][16] In terms of hydrography, Les Ulis lacks major internal water bodies but is closely proximate to the Yvette river, which flows through the nearby Chevreuse valley and shapes regional drainage patterns. A minor stream, the Rouillon, originates within the commune and serves as a tributary to the Yvette, contributing to local surface water flow. The area's hydrology is primarily influenced by runoff from the plateau into these valleys, with no significant lakes or reservoirs present.[17][18]Urban planning and architecture
Les Ulis was conceived as a planned community in the 1960s as part of France's ZUP (Zone à Urbaniser en Priorité) initiative to address housing shortages in the Paris region, evolving into a full commune by 1977 with a comprehensive urban framework.[19] The design drew from modernist urban planning principles inspired by Le Corbusier, emphasizing functional separation of uses, elevated structures, and integrated green spaces to create a balanced living environment.[20] Chief architects Robert Camelot and François Prieur oversaw the master plan, collaborating with specialists like Georges-Henri Pingusson, Daniel Michelin, Michel Andrault, and Pierre Parat to ensure architectural cohesion across the development.[19] The commune's layout adopts a U-shaped territory on a plateau, with residential areas organized around a central hub that connects eastern and western quarters, promoting a pedestrian-oriented "15-minute city" model where essential services are accessible on foot.[14] Architectural hallmarks include high-rise housing blocks in the urbanisme de dalle style—slab-like structures elevated on pilotis to separate pedestrian and vehicular flows via footbridges (passerelles)—as seen in ensembles like the Résidence Le Bois du Roi (1969–1974) and Résidence Tournemire (1973–1979).[21] Green spaces are woven into the fabric, with parks and landscaped areas mitigating the density of built environments and supporting biodiversity, while mixed-use developments integrate commerce, leisure, and housing to foster community interaction.[20] Notable civic structures, such as the pyramid-shaped schools and the Hôtel de Ville (1974–1976, by Camelot, Jean-Claude Finelli, and Michel Hennuyer), exemplify bold geometric forms and innovative materials typical of post-war modernism.[21] Key zones delineate residential neighborhoods from industrial and commercial areas, with the adjacent 450-hectare Parc d'activités de Courtaboeuf housing over 1,200 companies and 24,000 employees, deliberately isolated from living spaces to reduce noise and pollution impacts.[20] This zoning evolved from early 1960s industrial designations in the region, which informed the 1977 commune's full planning to prioritize human-scale urbanism over purely functional segregation.[19] In recent years, eleven architectural ensembles have received the Architecture Contemporaine Remarquable label from DRAC Île-de-France, recognizing the site's enduring contribution to contemporary design while guiding ongoing renewal efforts like densification controls and green retrofits.[21]History
Early development
Prior to the 1960s, the area now known as Les Ulis consisted primarily of rural agricultural land on the Saclay plateau, characterized by scattered farms and open fields in the Mondétour region.[14] This plateau, part of the broader Essonne landscape, supported traditional farming activities amid a landscape of gentle hills and limited infrastructure, with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Bronze Age but remaining predominantly agrarian through the mid-20th century.[22] The transition to modern development began in the 1960s as part of France's national "villes nouvelles" policy, initiated under President Charles de Gaulle to alleviate overcrowding in Paris by creating planned urban extensions in the surrounding regions.[23] On November 30, 1960, a ministerial decree established a priority urbanization zone (Zone à Urbaniser en Priorité, or ZUP) at Les Ulis to accommodate industrial and scientific growth spilling over from the nearby Chevreuse Valley.[20] This paved the way for the initiation of the Courtabœuf industrial park, one of Europe's largest, which began attracting initial businesses focused on technology and manufacturing by the mid-1960s, marking the shift from farmland to economic hub.[24] By 1968, the first residents arrived in the area, settling into temporary housing as part of the ZUP's phased construction on the Mondétour plateau.[25] These early inhabitants, mainly young middle-class families, moved into initial residences such as the Bathes complex in May of that year, with basic facilities like wooden provisioning shacks serving as interim structures amid ongoing development.[26] This settlement phase reflected the broader modernist architectural influences guiding the new town's layout, emphasizing functional, high-density housing to support the growing workforce.[25]Establishment as a commune
Les Ulis was officially established as a commune on February 17, 1977, through a prefectural decree (arrêté préfectoral) issued to address the rapid demographic and urban growth in the area previously covered by the Zone à Urbaniser en Priorité (ZUP) of Bures-Orsay, which had been created in 1960.[20][14] This administrative formalization separated the new commune from the neighboring municipalities of Bures-sur-Yvette and Orsay, encompassing 526 hectares and becoming the 196th commune in the Essonne department.[14] The establishment coincided with significant population expansion, as the ZUP's housing developments attracted residents; the population rose from 20,316 in 1975 to a peak of 28,256 in 1982, reflecting the influx of families into the newly built neighborhoods.[27] This growth was driven by the completion of major housing projects in the late 1970s, including high-rise apartments and collective dwellings designed to accommodate over 10,000 units planned since the ZUP's inception, alongside the extension of the adjacent Courtaboeuf industrial zone established in the 1960s.[14][25] Infrastructure development accelerated during this period to support the burgeoning community, with the construction of essential facilities such as primary and secondary schools, including the Groupe scolaire du Bosquet, and community centers integrated into residential areas.[14] Sports facilities, like gymnasiums attached to schools, were also built concurrently to promote local amenities.[25] These elements were part of a broader urban planning effort to create a self-sufficient town. Socially, Les Ulis was conceived as a destination for working-class families relocating from Paris, providing affordable housing options in proximity to emerging industrial and scientific employment opportunities in the region.[20] This relocation strategy aimed to alleviate urban density in the capital while fostering balanced suburban development.[25]Post-1980s evolution
Following the rapid growth of the 1970s, Les Ulis experienced population stabilization in the 1980s and 1990s as the initial influx of residents tapered off, leading to a gradual decline from its 1982 peak amid economic pressures and outward migration of middle-class families. This period marked the onset of urban renewal efforts aimed at revitalizing aging infrastructure and addressing emerging social disparities, with initiatives such as the 1982 Contrat de Solidarité creating local jobs and the 1993 Régie de Quartier supporting community training and engagement to foster cohesion. By the late 1990s, these projects began to emphasize housing rehabilitation and public space improvements to counteract ghettoization trends, though challenges like rising unemployment—reaching 11% by the early 2000s—and spreading poverty highlighted the need for broader interventions.[25] In the 2000s, Les Ulis integrated into the burgeoning Paris-Saclay scientific and technological cluster, initiated around 2008 as part of a national push to position the area as a global hub for research and innovation, benefiting from proximity to major institutions and transport links. This alignment facilitated access to resources like 65,000 students and 15,000 researchers within the cluster, enhancing local opportunities in tech and R&D while the commune joined the Communauté d'agglomération Paris-Saclay in 2016, which encompasses 27 municipalities and supports 180,000 jobs across 25,500 enterprises. Urban renewal accelerated with the 2006 Programme de Rénovation Urbaine (PRU), backed by a €114 million convention through 2010, involving the demolition of approximately 300 housing units, construction of 600 new mixed-income residences, and upgrades to commercial centers like Amonts and Champs-Lasniers to improve accessibility and vibrancy.[28][29][25] From 2023 to 2025, developments in Les Ulis have remained incremental, with a focus on sustainability and infrastructure maintenance rather than transformative events; the Courtabœuf industrial park, covering 40% of the commune's area, saw a 2023 partnership committing €100 million over 10 years for enhancements like roads and cycling paths, alongside a €50 million highway interchange renovation starting in 2024. Sustainability initiatives, ongoing since a 2009 policy and revitalized in 2021 with nine strategic objectives, include integrating environmental criteria into all public contracts, reducing plastic use in schools, and planning "green budgeting" for 2025 to evaluate investment impacts. These efforts align with broader cluster goals, such as non-carbon mobility via electric bikes for municipal staff.[30] Persistent challenges in Les Ulis include combating banlieue stereotypes of isolation and decay through proactive social integration programs, such as language mediation for immigrants since the 1970s, youth employment support via the Plan Local pour l'Insertion et l'Emploi (PLIE), and cultural facilities like the Boris Vian center to promote community engagement and reduce disparities between sensitive urban zones and other areas. By the 2010s, these measures, including anti-discrimination training and partnerships with local enterprises, aimed to enhance social cohesion amid ongoing pauperization and ethnic diversity, with associations like ASTI facilitating administrative aid and cultural exchanges. Official narratives emphasize Les Ulis as a green, dynamic space distinct from typical suburban clichés, underscoring efforts to redefine its image through nature-focused urbanism and inclusive policies.[25][31]Government and administration
Local governance
Les Ulis operates under a standard French municipal governance structure, with a conseil municipal comprising 35 elected members serving six-year terms. This assembly holds deliberative authority over local policies, budgets, and services, convening on the second Thursday of each month except during school holidays. The council elects the mayor and up to 14 deputy mayors from its ranks, who form the executive team responsible for implementing decisions and managing daily administration.[32] Clovis Cassan has served as mayor since his election on July 4, 2020, following a closely contested municipal vote. In this role, he directs key areas including urban planning—such as infrastructure renovations and sustainable development initiatives—and social services, encompassing support for families, youth, and vulnerable populations through facilities like multi-accueil centers and leisure programs. Cassan's policies emphasize controlled public spending and community enhancement, as evidenced by priorities in the 2025 budget that maintain stable tax rates while funding essential upgrades to promote social cohesion and environmental improvements. He also holds the position of 7th vice-president of the Paris-Saclay urban community, where he contributes to regional coordination on mobility and economic development.[33][30][34] The commune is administratively divided into eastern and western sectors, each governed by neighborhood councils (conseils de quartier) that facilitate resident input on local matters like maintenance and events. These divisions encompass numerous residential areas, with representative western quarters including Les Amonts, Les Hautes-Bergères, and Equinoxe, which feature a mix of social housing and community facilities. The 2025 municipal budget, adopted on December 19, 2024, totals €62 million (with €49.3 million for operations and €12.7 million for investments), prioritizing housing maintenance through projects such as beam reinforcements and roof renovations at public housing-adjacent sites like school groups and the covered market, alongside €6.5 million in borrowing to support these efforts without excessive debt accumulation.[35][36][37] Les Ulis' communal heraldry features a coat of arms described as: D'azur à la barre d'or chargée en chef d'un besant d'argent, en cœur d'un tourteau d'azur et en pointe d'un besant d'argent, symbolizing local identity through heraldic elements evoking stability and community. No official motto accompanies the blason.[38]Political history
Les Ulis was officially established as a commune on February 17, 1977, and in the subsequent municipal elections held in March of that year, Paul Loridant of the Socialist Party (PS) was elected as its first mayor, a position he held continuously until 2008 across five terms.[39] During his initial mandates in the late 1970s and 1980s, the municipal council, composed predominantly of left-leaning representatives, prioritized urban planning and infrastructure to support the rapid influx of residents into this newly created planned community, overseeing the construction of essential facilities like a town hall, schools, and housing blocks.[3] This era marked a foundational shift from ad hoc development inherited from neighboring communes to structured governance focused on accommodating demographic growth. By the 1990s, socialist dominance was firmly entrenched in Les Ulis' local politics, with Loridant securing re-election in 1983, 1989, and 1995 amid a council that reflected the commune's emerging working-class and immigrant-heavy demographics, which bolstered support for progressive policies.[40] The political landscape emphasized social integration and welfare, transitioning from pure infrastructural expansion to addressing community needs such as youth programs and housing equity, influenced by the diverse population that comprised a significant portion of voters.[41] This left-leaning orientation persisted, with the PS maintaining control of the majority of council seats throughout the decade, underscoring Les Ulis' role as a socialist stronghold in the Essonne department. Following Loridant's retirement, Maud Olivier (PS) was elected mayor in the 2008 municipal elections, where her list secured all 35 council seats in the second round with over 70% of the vote, continuing the socialist governance tradition but with increased emphasis on social welfare amid economic challenges.[42] Olivier's term ended prematurely in 2012 due to her appointment as a deputy, leading to an interim administration under Sonia Dahou until 2014. In the 2014 elections, Françoise Marhuenda (MRC) won with her list obtaining 53.7% in the second round, claiming 23 of 35 seats and further solidifying the left's hold while navigating urban renewal projects.[43] The 2020 municipal elections highlighted ongoing left-leaning tendencies but also internal divisions, as the socialist vote split between candidates; Clovis Cassan (Divers gauche) ultimately triumphed in the second round on June 28 with 62.44% of the vote (3,271 votes), securing 29 council seats against Marhuenda's 37.55% (1,969 votes), amid a low turnout of 40.62%.[44] Cassan's administration has continued the evolution toward social-focused governance, building on the diverse population's influence to promote inclusive policies. Notable political initiatives under successive socialist-led councils include participation in national urban renewal programs since the early 2000s, such as the ANRU (Agence Nationale pour la Rénovation Urbaine) contracts that funded housing rehabilitation and public space improvements, approved through local votes in the 2000s and 2010s.[45] Anti-discrimination efforts have been prioritized, with municipal support for over 300 community associations fostering solidarity and combating racism, particularly through events and partnerships highlighted in local governance since the 1990s.[20] These policies reflect the commune's commitment to equity in a multicultural setting.[46]Demographics
Population statistics
Les Ulis experienced significant population growth during its early years as a planned new town, increasing from 20,316 inhabitants in 1975 to a peak of 28,256 in 1982, driven by the influx of residents attracted to the newly developed housing and infrastructure.[1] Following this rapid expansion, the population began to stabilize and gradually decline, reaching 27,197 in 1990, 25,785 in 1999, 24,962 in 2006, and a low of 24,641 in 2011, reflecting outflows and adjustments in the post-construction phase.[1] By 2016, the figure rose slightly to 24,868, and as of 2022, the population stood at 25,633, indicating a modest recovery supported by a positive natural balance and net migration.[1] Recent trends show an annual average variation of about 0.6% from 2016 to 2022.[1] With a surface area of 5.18 km², Les Ulis maintains a high population density of 4,949 inhabitants per km² as of 2022, underscoring its compact urban design and role within the Paris metropolitan area.[1]| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 1975 | 20,316 |
| 1982 | 28,256 |
| 1990 | 27,197 |
| 1999 | 25,785 |
| 2006 | 24,962 |
| 2011 | 24,641 |
| 2016 | 24,868 |
| 2022 | 25,633 |
Socio-economic characteristics
Les Ulis features a highly diverse population, with immigrants making up 27.1% of residents as of the 2022 census, far exceeding the national average of 10.3%.[47][48] This diversity is particularly pronounced due to significant inflows from African countries, including those in the Maghreb and sub-Saharan regions, as well as from Portugal, reflecting broader migration patterns to the Paris suburbs.[49] The foreign population, comprising non-naturalized residents, accounts for 21.8% of the total.[47] The demographic profile of Les Ulis is characterized by a youthful age structure, with 22.0% of the population under 15 years old in 2022, indicating a higher proportion of children and adolescents compared to older age groups, though the proportion aged 60 and over has increased from 11.2% in 2011 to 19.1% in 2022.[50][1] Family structures often reflect this dynamism, with single-parent households representing 25.4% of all families in 2022, a rate elevated relative to national norms and linked to the commune's socioeconomic context.[50] Socioeconomic indicators reveal persistent challenges, including an unemployment rate of 13.3% among those aged 15 to 64 in 2022, more than double the national figure of 7.3%.[51] Median disposable income per consumption unit reached €19,950 in 2021, falling below the national median of approximately €22,140 and underscoring income disparities.[50][52] In response to these issues, Les Ulis supports integration through targeted programs, such as language and civic education courses for newcomers, while youth employment initiatives like the Mission Locale des Ulis provide guidance for 16- to 25-year-olds seeking jobs or training.[53] Additionally, the École de la 2e Chance offers vocational pathways for school dropouts, aiming to enhance employability amid high youth unemployment.[54]Economy
Industrial zone
The Parc d'activités de Courtabœuf serves as the primary industrial zone for Les Ulis, covering approximately 376 hectares across the communes of Les Ulis, Villebon-sur-Yvette, and Villejust. Established in the 1960s as part of France's post-war urban planning initiatives, it has grown into one of Europe's largest tertiary business parks, accommodating approximately 1,600 companies and supporting around 25,000 jobs as of 2025.[55][56] The zone's development was integral to the creation of Les Ulis as a new town, driving an initial influx of workers and residents by providing essential employment opportunities while incorporating zoning regulations that physically separated industrial operations from emerging residential neighborhoods to ensure balanced urban expansion.[57] Specializing in high-technology sectors, Courtabœuf functions as a key component of the Paris-Saclay innovation cluster, emphasizing biotechnology, information technology, and advanced research-driven industries. This focus has positioned the park as a hub for innovation, attracting firms engaged in digital technologies, health-biotech solutions, and related deeptech applications that contribute to the cluster's status as Europe's leading deeptech ecosystem.[58] The zone's strategic integration with Paris-Saclay enhances collaborative opportunities between businesses, research institutions, and academic entities in the region.[59] In the 2020s, Courtabœuf has prioritized environmental sustainability through targeted upgrades, including a 2022 partnership agreement for ecological development that promotes resource efficiency and inter-company synergies via industrial ecology principles. As part of the 10-year attractiveness plan launched in 2023, these initiatives aim to enhance mobility and services, with active mobility networks like bike paths and pedestrian routes implemented progressively through 2025 to reduce carbon emissions and improve overall site resilience.[60][56]Major employers and sectors
The economy of Les Ulis is dominated by the nearby Courtabœuf business park, which hosts approximately 24,000 jobs across various high-tech and service-oriented firms, making it the largest employment hub in the Essonne department.[61] Within the commune itself, total employment stands at 15,731 jobs as of 2022, with an employment concentration indicator of 147.6 jobs per 100 active residents, indicating a moderate local retention of workforce.[1] Of the 10,492 employed residents in 2022, only 2,707 work within the commune, resulting in a net influx of approximately 13,024 commuters to fill the 15,731 local jobs.[1] Key economic sectors in Les Ulis emphasize services, particularly wholesale, retail, and transportation/logistics, which account for 63% of local jobs, followed by industry at 15.7% and public administration, education, and health at 16%.[1] The technology sector, including IT services, is prominent due to the presence of specialized firms in the Courtabœuf zone, while pharmaceuticals benefit from biomanufacturing companies like LFB Biomedicaments.[62] Logistics thrives through distribution and supply chain operations, leveraging the park's strategic location near Paris.[1] Prominent employers include Hewlett-Packard France, whose headquarters at 1 Avenue du Canada employs several hundred staff in IT and consulting services.[63] In 2023, Apixit SAS, an IT cybersecurity and infrastructure provider based in Les Ulis, was acquired by Bechtle AG, enhancing the commune's digital services footprint with its approximately 340 employees.[64] Other notable firms include Safran Trusted 4D for aerospace technology and Eurobio Scientific for diagnostics, contributing to diversified industrial activity.[65] These entities collectively bolster the regional GDP of the Paris-Saclay cluster, where Courtabœuf represents a key node in innovation-driven growth, supported by local vocational training initiatives aligned with sector needs.[66]| Sector | Jobs (2022) | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Wholesale/Retail/Transports (incl. Logistics) | 9,634 | 63.0 |
| Industry (incl. Tech & Pharma) | 2,403 | 15.7 |
| Public Admin/Education/Health | 2,443 | 16.0 |
| Construction | 818 | 5.3 |
| Agriculture | 3 | 0.0 |
Infrastructure
Transport
Les Ulis benefits from robust public transport options, primarily through access to the RER B line via nearby stations in Orsay-Ville and Bures-sur-Yvette. The Orsay-Ville station, approximately 5 km away, serves as a key terminus for bus line 4605, which connects directly from central Les Ulis in about 14 minutes and provides swift links to central Paris in under 30 minutes. Similarly, the Bures-sur-Yvette station, roughly 3 km distant, is reachable by local bus in 10-15 minutes or on foot in around 30 minutes, offering additional RER B services to the capital and regional destinations. Complementing rail access, an extensive bus network operated by Île-de-France Mobilités serves Les Ulis, with lines such as 4602, 4603, 4605, 4609, and the recently introduced 4627 providing frequent connections to Paris, Massy-Palaiseau RER station, and the Paris-Saclay plateau. These routes operate daily with intervals of 12-30 minutes during peak hours, facilitating commutes to employment hubs and amenities; for instance, line 4627 links Les Ulis to the Paris-Saclay hospital via Orsay. Nighttime travel is supported by the Noctilien N122 line, which runs from the Mairie des Ulis stop to Châtelet in Paris every 30-60 minutes after midnight. Road infrastructure positions Les Ulis as a well-connected commuter hub, situated at the intersection of Route Nationale 118 (linking to Paris via Sèvres) and Route Nationale 104 (the Francilienne outer ring road). Proximity to the A10 motorway, just a few kilometers away, enables quick access to Orly Airport in 15 minutes and central Paris in about 30 minutes by car. The commune's elevated position on the Saclay plateau further enhances these road links by minimizing elevation challenges. To encourage sustainable local mobility, Les Ulis incorporates dedicated cycling and pedestrian paths into its urban planning, including safe routes along key avenues and green spaces. Electric bike-sharing via the LIME service has gained popularity, with stations facilitating over 1,000 trips to adjacent communes like Bures-sur-Yvette and Orsay, promoting short-distance travel and integration with public transport hubs.Public services and utilities
Les Ulis benefits from a comprehensive network of public utilities managed primarily through regional and national providers. Water supply for the commune is provided by the Syndicat des eaux d'Île-de-France (SEDIF), drawing from sources in the Yvette valley and surrounding watersheds, with distribution handled by the Communauté d'Agglomération Paris-Saclay (CAPS) via Suez Eau France, ensuring potable water at a cost of 2.36 € TTC per cubic meter as of 2025.[67] Electricity is distributed via the national grid operated by Enedis, the primary network manager in the Essonne department, supporting both residential and industrial needs with reliable access to the broader French energy system. Waste management is coordinated by the Syndicat intercommunal pour l'ordures ménagères (SIOM), which oversees collection, sorting, and recycling programs; residents participate in a unified sorting system where all household packaging—metal, paper, plastic, and cardboard—is deposited in yellow bins for processing, promoting a circular economy approach. Healthcare services in Les Ulis emphasize accessibility through local facilities and proximity to advanced medical centers. The Centre Municipal de Santé (CMS) des Ulis, located at 3 Rue du Maine, provides primary care, preventive health actions, and specialized consultations including general medicine, dentistry, and pediatrics, serving as a key entry point for residents. For more complex needs, the commune is closely linked to the Hôpital Paris-Saclay in Orsay, approximately 5 km away, which offers 480 beds, surgical suites, and emergency services across medicine, surgery, and obstetrics; additional support is available from facilities in Palaiseau, such as the Centre Hospitalier de Longjumeau, ensuring comprehensive regional coverage. Essential municipal services include postal operations run by La Poste, with the main bureau at Esplanade de la République offering courrier, parcel delivery, and banking services through La Banque Postale, including colis retrieval and digital assistance via a dedicated France Services counselor since 2023. Emergency response is robust, with the Commissariat de Police des Ulis at 124 Avenue des Champs-Lasniers handling law enforcement and public safety, contactable at 01 70 29 30 10 for non-urgent matters. Fire and rescue services fall under the Centre d'Incendie et de Secours (CIS) Orsay/Les Ulis, staffed by 65 firefighters and equipped for urban interventions, integrated into the Essonne Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (SDIS 91). Digital infrastructure has advanced significantly, with fiber optic (FTTH) deployment reaching 92% coverage by 2025, initiated in 2012 under the Essonne Numérique initiative to provide high-speed internet across the commune. Major operators like Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom maintain independent networks in this very dense zone, enabling low-latency connectivity for households and businesses. Sustainability efforts focus on green energy integration, led by Enerlis, the local heating and cooling network operator, which incorporates renewable sources to achieve a 90.2% annual efficiency rate in 2023, reducing reliance on fossil fuels through biomass and recovered energy systems. Recent initiatives include photovoltaic autoconsumption projects on public buildings and encouragement of solar panel installations for individual and collective energy production, aligning with regional goals for carbon reduction.Culture and society
Education and youth
Les Ulis maintains a robust network of public educational institutions serving its young population, which constitutes a significant portion of the commune's demographics. The commune hosts 21 primary schools, comprising 13 maternelles (kindergartens) and 8 écoles élémentaires, such as the Groupe scolaire des Avelines, Groupe scolaire du Barceleau, Groupe scolaire des Bergères, Groupe scolaire du Bosquet, and Groupe scolaire de Courdimanche.[68][69][70] Secondary education is provided through two collèges, including Collège Mondétour and Collège Aimé Césaire, and one polyvalent lycée: the Lycée de l'Essouriau, which offers general, technological, and professional tracks and enrolls approximately 1,400 students as of 2023.[50][71][72][73][74] Enrollment in these institutions reflects the commune's focus on local education, with about 1,979 residents aged 15-64 identified as students in 2022, representing 7.7% of that age group.[75] Access to higher education is facilitated by the proximity of the Paris-Saclay University cluster, located just a short bus ride away via line 9 or 4609 from key stops like Mairie des Ulis.[76] Local lycées prepare students for this pathway; for instance, the Lycée de l'Essouriau offers preparatory classes for grandes écoles, enabling Ulissiens to pursue advanced studies in science and engineering at Paris-Saclay.[77][78] Youth programs in Les Ulis emphasize support and engagement for ages 12-25 through dedicated structures like two accueils de jeunes (youth welcome centers), a point d'information jeunesse for guidance on education and employment, and the active Conseil municipal des jeunes, which involves teens in local decision-making.[79] The Mission Locale des Ulis provides after-school and vocational programs, including job training and project funding via the Bonus Projet Jeunes initiative, which financially supports personal or community projects from March to October.[80][79] Community centers, such as those run by ROSI France-Essonne, offer empowerment workshops addressing diverse needs like integration and skill-building.[81] Historically, Les Ulis has faced challenges including high school dropout rates and overcrowded classrooms, with Collège Mondétour reporting classes of up to 30 pupils and a student-teacher ratio of 26.65 in recent years.[82] Recent improvements stem from regional integration efforts in Essonne, including prevention programs against décrochage scolaire and enhanced support via unités localisées pour l'inclusion scolaire (ULIS) for inclusive education, which have contributed to better retention and personalized learning.[83][84] Additionally, online tutoring platforms like Prof Express, funded by local partnerships, provide accessible after-school academic aid.[85]Sports and community life
Les Ulis boasts a vibrant sports scene, with football holding particular prominence through the Club Omnisports des Ulis (CO Les Ulis), a multi-sport association founded in 1977 that offers over 46 disciplines and attracts more than 4,000 members annually.[86] The club's football section competes in regional leagues and serves as a key hub for recreational and competitive play, utilizing facilities such as the local stadium equipped with a running track for athletics events.[87] Other popular activities include badminton, pétanque, table tennis, archery, and volleyball, supported by 60 sports associations across 43 disciplines that engage over 10,000 residents, half through organized clubs.[88] These programs emphasize accessibility, with dedicated sections for individual and team sports to promote physical health and social interaction. Community events in Les Ulis foster inclusivity, drawing on the area's diverse population to feature multicultural festivals and gatherings. Annual celebrations like the Festival Les Ulis en Vert, held in July at the Parc Urbain, highlight ecological initiatives, solidarity workshops, and family activities such as film screenings and markets, attracting local participation since its inception.[89] Cultural associations, including the Association Culturelle Portugaise des Ulis/Orsay, organize events celebrating immigrant heritage through music, dance, and cuisine, enhancing community bonds among varied ethnic groups.[90] The Village des Associations, an early-season fair, showcases over 100 local groups, promoting networking and volunteer opportunities.[91] Social life revolves around green spaces and civic institutions that encourage cohesion. The city maintains nearly 100 hectares of parks, including the North Park with its lakes and a 6 km fitness trail linking to neighboring areas, ideal for walking, jogging, and outdoor recreation.[5] The Médiathèque des Ulis serves as a central community hub, offering book clubs, cultural workshops, and digital resources to support lifelong learning and intergenerational exchange.[92] Neighborhood councils, such as the Conseil de Quartier Est and Ouest, facilitate resident input on local issues, presided by municipal adjoints to strengthen participatory governance and address daily concerns.[35]Notable residents
Les Ulis has produced several prominent figures in sports and entertainment, many of whom began their careers through local youth programs like CO Les Ulis, highlighting the commune's vibrant community sports culture that fosters talent from diverse backgrounds.[93] Thierry Henry, born on August 17, 1977, in Les Ulis, is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in football history. He rose through the ranks at CO Les Ulis before joining professional clubs, achieving global acclaim with Arsenal, where he won two Premier League titles (2002, 2004) and three FA Cups (2002, 2003, 2005), earning Footballer of the Year honors three times (2003, 2004, 2006). With the France national team, Henry scored a then-record 51 goals in 123 appearances, contributing to victories in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA European Championship.[94][94][94] Patrice Evra, who grew up in Les Ulis and started his youth career at CO Les Ulis, became a renowned left-back known for his defensive prowess and leadership. After early professional stints in Italy and France, he joined Manchester United in 2006, winning five Premier League titles, three League Cups, and the 2008 UEFA Champions League. Evra earned 81 caps for France, participating in two FIFA World Cups and two UEFA European Championships, including the 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup triumph.[95][96][96] Noémie Lenoir, born on September 19, 1979, in Les Ulis, is a prominent French model and actress of Réunionais and French descent. She gained international recognition as the face of L'Oréal Paris starting at age 16 and worked with brands like Gucci, Victoria's Secret, and Gap, appearing on covers of Vogue and Elle. Lenoir transitioned to acting in films such as Rush Hour 3 (2007) and The Transporter 2 (2005), establishing herself in both fashion and Hollywood.[97][97][97] Other notable residents include footballer Moussa Marega, born April 14, 1991, in Les Ulis, who played as a striker for clubs like Porto, scoring over 70 goals in the Primeira Liga and representing Mali internationally; swimmer Adam Allouche, from Les Ulis, who holds four Lebanese national records and competed for Lebanon at the 2013 Mediterranean Games; and former goalkeeper Gilbert Bayiha N'Djema, born August 9, 1979, in Les Ulis, who played professionally in France, Greece, and Cyprus before coaching in Canada.[98][99]International relations
Twin towns – sister cities
Les Ulis has established twin town partnerships since the late 1990s to foster international cooperation, cultural understanding, and mutual support among diverse communities. These initiatives, coordinated through the Comité de Jumelage des Ulis founded in 1996, aim to promote exchanges in education, culture, sports, and development, reflecting the city's multicultural population.[100][20] The partnerships include:- Thetford, England, United Kingdom (since 1996): This twinning emphasizes cultural and historical ties, with activities such as delegations exploring local traditions and joint commemorations. A notable visit occurred in June 2021 to renew bonds during the Queen's Jubilee celebrations.[20]
- Sédhiou, Senegal (since 1998): Focused on decentralized cooperation and development aid, the partnership supports projects in infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, and waste management. Examples include assistance for medical facilities, maraîchage initiatives, and school programs, strengthening solidarity between the two towns.[20][101][102]
- Sátão, Portugal (since 2013): This agreement highlights cultural and community exchanges, leveraging the significant Portuguese diaspora in Les Ulis. Activities include artistic collaborations, such as a 2022 exhibition of works by Ulis artists in Sátão, and efforts to share heritage in architecture, nature, and gastronomy.[20]
- Naumburg, Germany (since 2019): Centered on educational and sports exchanges, the partnership facilitates student observation stages and athletic events, like a 2022 U12 football match. It promotes cross-border friendship along the Saale River region.[20][100]