Vauréal

Vauréal is a commune in the Val-d'Oise department in the Île-de-France region of northern France. Located in the northwestern suburbs of Paris, it lies about 40 kilometers from the capital and is part of the suburban belt around Cergy-Pontoise.

Geography and population: The commune covers a mix of built-up areas and surrounding agricultural land, reflecting the rural-urban fringe character of the Oise valley. The population is in the thousands, with residents known as Vauréalais (male) and Vauréalaises (female).

History: The area has historic agricultural roots. For much of its history it remained rural, and the village underwent significant residential development in the late 20th century as part of the expansion of the Paris metropolitan area, transforming it into a commuter town serving the wider region.

Economy and transport: The local economy is primarily based on small businesses and local services, with many residents working in nearby towns or in Paris. There are no major industrial facilities in the commune. Transportation relies on road connections and bus networks; the nearest rail stations are in Pontoise and Cergy, linking residents to the regional rail network. Vauréal is accessible via regional highways and is part of the broader Cergy-Pontoise urban area.

Education and culture: Vauréal operates several primary schools; secondary education is provided in neighboring towns. Cultural and community life centers on local associations, the town hall, and public spaces that host events and markets.