Making smart use of available space

Nestled between the sea and the mountains, the Principality's unique location has led to the development of demanding and inventive urban planning to create an outstanding living environment. Using the most innovative technologies, underground networks have been installed to keep the city running, and new developments strike a balance between modernity and history, with contemporary buildings that don't overshadow the character of the existing neighbourhoods.

While the size and population density of the area are certainly unique, what sets it apart is a strong connection to nature, particularly the sea, which forms the backdrop to the city. The juxtaposition of green spaces in the heart of each neighbourhood creates an oasis of tranquillity that offers more green space per inhabitant than in most comparable towns, further emphasising this connection to nature.

As part of the ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life for everyone and protect the environment, the Prince's Government is pursuing a policy that will encourage green travel by constantly improving public transport, reducing the number of vehicles on the roads and encouraging the use of clean vehicles. This policy has been bolstered by major infrastructure developments in recent years, such as renovating tunnels, building car parks at the entrance to the city and creating cycle lanes. These measures are currently being supported by digital transition tools which are gradually streamlining travel within and around Monaco.

Although the private property market does not fall within the Prince's Government's remit, aside from safeguarding certain regional development priorities, it does take action to ensure that the national population and those protected by law are able to find housing in their home country, under affordable conditions.

More than 3,000 housing units in the state-owned area of Monaco enable Monegasques to live in state-owned flats. Allocations are made on the basis of criteria defined by Ministerial Decree, with rents set according to the surface area and geographical location of the accommodation. National Housing Aid may also be allocated to households, depending on their income and the rental rate, with a loan available to cover the cost of moving, where applicable. A home exchange scheme has been in place since 2008, with almost 690 households able to swap their homes. Since 2010, nationals living in the state sector have also been able to take out a "Habitation-Capitalisation" Contract (Rent to Buy Contract).

Six hundred other state-owned apartments in neighbouring communes are reserved for non-Monegasque nationals, State employees and employees of concession companies or public bodies.

Furthermore, those protected by law are guaranteed rent control in buildings built before 1947, and a rent differential allowance is available to certain households, depending on their income and rental rates, this may be supplemented by a loan to cover the cost of moving.