Services and everyday life in Monaco: information you need to know

Healthcare: a medical system of excellence

Monaco has a very high-level healthcare system, comparable in its organization and quality to the French model. Residents benefit from effective medical coverage thanks to the Monaco Social Insurance Funds, financed by employer contributions (24% of payroll) and employee contributions (15% of income). In practice, healthcare is free or heavily subsidized for anyone contributing to the Monegasque system, ensuring easy access to medical services.

The Princess Grace Hospital Center (CHPG) is the main public hospital institution in the Principality. Equipped with the latest technologies (medical imaging, radiology, modern surgical suite, etc.), it offers a complete range of specialized care with an international reputation. Several specialized medical structures revolve around the CHPG:

• A Cardio-Thoracic Center at the forefront of heart and thoracic pathology treatment.

• A Hemodialysis Center providing secure care for patients with renal failure.

• The IM2S (Monegasque Institute of Sports Medicine and Surgery), a clinic inaugurated in 2006, specializing in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery.

• Numerous pharmacies spread across the territory, often open late, for medications and common health advice.

Furthermore, Monaco also attracts high-level private practitioners and clinics. Residents thus benefit from a comprehensive medical offer, combining local expertise with proximity to Côte d’Azur hospital centers when specific needs arise. The presence of an ambulance system and a modern emergency service guarantees a rapid response to critical medical situations. With health as a national priority, the Principality continuously invests to maintain the excellence of its hospital infrastructure and the availability of care for all.

Education: international schools and quality teaching

Despite its small size, Monaco offers excellent educational opportunities, both for Monegasque residents and expatriates. The public education system is modeled on the French system, with nursery, primary, and secondary schools renowned for the quality of their teaching and low student-to-teacher ratios. Languages play an important role, with English introduced at an early age in some institutions to promote bilingualism.

For international families, the Principality also has several renowned international schools. These private institutions offer bilingual (French-English primarily) and international curriculums, suited to the children of expatriates or Monegasque students seeking a multicultural environment. For example, the International School of Monaco and other English-speaking schools welcome students from multiple nationalities, providing an environment conducive to academic excellence and student development. Programs range from kindergarten to the International Baccalaureate, allowing for higher education anywhere in the world.

At the higher education level, the International University of Monaco (IUM) offers English-language programs in business, management, and finance, attracting students from around the world. This diversity of educational options makes Monaco particularly attractive for families: children can follow a complete educational path in a secure and cosmopolitan context.

Finally, note that Monaco also values local culture and history in education: the Monegasque language and the Principality’s history are part of the curriculum in schools, thus preserving heritage while training globally-minded citizens.

Security: Monaco, one of the safest places in the world

Living in Monaco means enjoying a level of security virtually unmatched worldwide. The crime rate is extremely low, thanks to a discreet but constant police presence and a highly developed surveillance network. The Principality invests significantly in technology and personnel to guarantee public peace: it is estimated that there is around one police officer for every 100 inhabitants, a remarkable ratio illustrating the resources deployed for everyone’s security. Additionally, a 24/7 video surveillance system covers the entire territory, and authorities can lock down access to Monaco within minutes if necessary, thanks to the country’s geographical configuration.

This proactive approach results in a serene daily life. It is common to note that in Monaco, one can wear jewelry or valuable objects in public without fear, as petty crimes and misdemeanors are rare. Rules are strictly enforced to maintain order and tranquility: traffic laws are heavily monitored, begging and disruptive behaviors are not tolerated, preserving a peaceful city atmosphere.

In addition to the police (the Monegasque Public Security), many establishments – residential buildings, hotels, shopping centers – have their own security measures (private security officers, controlled access). At night, regular patrols and omnipresent street lighting further enhance the sense of safety.

As a result, Monaco is frequently cited among the safest places to live, a major asset for families and affluent individuals choosing to settle there. Security is provided at no direct cost to residents (there is no specific local tax), making it a public service integrated into the Monegasque lifestyle. To learn more, our dedicated page on security in the Principality details all measures and key figures (video surveillance, personnel, technologies, etc.).

Transport, parking and sustainable mobility

Getting around Monaco is surprisingly easy for such a densely urbanized territory. Different urban transport options allow quick travel without necessarily using a personal car:

• Bus network: The Compagnie des Autobus de Monaco (CAM) operates several bus lines covering all districts of the Principality. Buses are frequent, modern and air-conditioned. They offer convenient connections (one ticket allows free transfers within 30 minutes) and some lines run late at night for evening outings. Monaco even offers a bus on demand service (ClicBus) in certain areas for added flexibility.

• Soft mobility: Mindful of environmental issues, the city encourages clean travel. The MonaBike service provides electric bikes on a self-service network, with over 300 bikes across 35 stations covering the entire territory. This allows you to travel around Monaco by electric-assisted bike in just minutes from one end to the other. Additionally, many public elevators and escalators are free to use, connecting different levels of the city (Monaco is built on a mountainside). It is thus possible to move from one district to another without effort and without a car, greatly improving pedestrian traffic flow.

• Boat-bus and external connections: To cross Port Hercule from one quay to another, an electric solar-powered boat-bus is in service, offering a scenic and eco-friendly crossing in a few minutes. Furthermore, Monaco has a heliport in Fontvieille, allowing you to reach Nice International Airport by helicopter in only 7 minutes – an option favored by business people and travelers in a hurry.

For those using a car, Monaco has invested heavily in public parking to meet the strong demand. There are over 46 underground public parking garages, totaling nearly 20,000 parking spaces available across 2 km². These parking facilities, spread throughout all districts, are generally open 24/7 and well maintained. Rates are subsidized for residents: for example, the first hour is often free in many garages and monthly subscriptions at preferential rates are offered for residents or commuters. New garages (Testimonio, Jardin Exotique, etc.) regularly add capacity to meet growing needs.

At the same time, the Principality encourages the adoption of clean vehicles. The Monaco ON program has deployed over 400 charging points for electric vehicles on streets and in public garages, available free of charge for users. This means electric car owners can easily recharge their battery in the city. Incentives (financial aid, free parking for green vehicles, etc.) also exist to encourage driving electric or hybrid vehicles. Note that users are required to vacate charging spots once charging is complete, to make them available for others – active monitoring by the Police and awareness campaigns help enforce this turnover.

In summary, despite peak-hour traffic density (Monaco welcomes thousands of commuters from abroad each day), travel in the Principality remains fluid and varied. A resident can easily live without a car thanks to public transport and walking. Those who drive will find suitable parking infrastructure. This efficiency in daily mobility greatly contributes to the comfort of life in Monaco.

Administrative services and everyday procedures

Moving and living in Monaco involves some initial administrative steps, but the Principality strives to make them as simple as possible. The Monegasque Government, through entities such as the Welcome Office and the online portal MonGuichet (My Public Service), offers support to new residents to centralize common formalities. Here are the main everyday services to know and set up when you relocate:

• Opening a bank account: Having an account in a Monegasque bank is often essential (at least to prove sufficient resources to the Administration and pay local expenses). Monaco has numerous international banking institutions – nearly 30 banks within 2 km², holding over €100 billion in assets. It is therefore easy to find a bank suited to your needs (private or retail). The Monaco Financial Activities Association (AMAF) provides the list of authorized banks. Opening an account generally requires an ID document, a proof of address in the Principality, and banking references.

• Electricity, gas and water: Energy and water supply is managed by local monopoly companies. The Monaco Electricity and Gas Company (SMEG) handles electricity and gas subscriptions, while the Monaco Water Company (SMEaux) takes care of drinking water supply. To subscribe, simply visit their offices (or contact them online) with an ID, a Monegasque bank account (RIB), and a proof of address (rental agreement or deed of ownership). These procedures are quick: for example, water service is activated within 24 hours after subscription. These public services are recognized for their efficiency and quality of distribution.

• Telecommunications: Monaco has a national operator, Monaco Telecom, which offers mobile phone, landline, internet (widespread fiber optics), and television services. Subscriptions are completed in one of the Monaco Telecom stores, with the same required documents (ID, proof of address, RIB). Internet speeds are excellent (Monaco was one of the first countries fully covered by fiber optics), and 5G is deployed throughout the territory as part of the “Extended Monaco” digital transition program.

• Residence card and driving license: Residence permit applications are processed by Public Security – Residents Section. Once a resident, certain routine procedures must be anticipated, such as exchanging your foreign driving license for a Monegasque one. Monaco indeed requires new residents to convert their license within one year of moving (after this period, exams must be retaken). The procedure is straightforward via the Automobile Club of Monaco, and is equivalent to European Union processes. Similarly, registering a personal vehicle in Monaco is mandatory if you become a resident: a Monegasque plate will attest to your local status. Registration fees are modest and calculated based on vehicle power.

• Other procedures: This includes registering children at school (procedures at the Monegasque National Education Directorate – usually the neighborhood school is assigned based on residence address), taking out local insurances (home insurance, car insurance – often modeled on French policies, via brokers accredited by the Monegasque Insurance Chamber), or registering with a general practitioner. On this last point, Monaco does not impose a declared primary care doctor as in France, but it is advisable to choose one for ongoing medical follow-up.

Monaco’s advantage is administrative responsiveness: with human-scale structures, requests are handled quickly and with personalized attention. Many services are available online via the official portal (company creation, civil status documents, resident parking payment, etc.), avoiding unnecessary travel. Overall, everyday procedures for a new Monegasque resident are simplified compared to many countries, thanks to proactive support from authorities. The Welcome Office also periodically organizes information sessions for newcomers, covering all practical aspects of life in Monaco – health, education, transport, taxation, business creation – to guide everyone step by step in settling here.

Environment and living environment

Monaco enjoys a privileged natural setting, between sea and mountain, which greatly contributes to residents’ quality of life. The climate is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot, sunny summers. This favorable weather allows for outdoor activities year-round – beach and water sports in summer, seaside walks even in winter, etc. Although highly urbanized, the Principality pays particular attention to preserving its environment and beautifying the urban landscape.

Many green spaces dot Monaco: there is the Exotic Garden (with its breathtaking panoramic view), the Princess Grace Rose Garden in Fontvieille, the Casino gardens, the new landscaped Mareterra park under development, and small flowered squares scattered throughout the city. Monaco is known for the immaculate cleanliness of its streets – a daily effort led by the Monegasque Sanitation Company for urban cleaning. Selective waste sorting is implemented, with recycling bins available in every neighborhood, supporting residents’ ecological awareness.

On the sustainability front, Monaco has set ambitious goals aligned with international agreements (COP21 and beyond). Prince Albert II is recognized for his environmental commitment. The Principality aims for carbon neutrality by 2050 and has already significantly reduced its per capita emissions. Among concrete initiatives: development of renewable energy (solar panels installed on various public buildings), promotion of electric mobility (see transport section), and marine biodiversity protection (Monaco hosts an underwater reserve along its coast and participates in scientific programs via the Oceanographic Institute).

The natural heritage is also preserved despite urban density. Monaco carries out sustainable urban planning projects such as the renovated eco-district of Fontvieille or the Mareterra land reclamation, designed with strict environmental standards (artificial reefs for marine fauna, geothermy, solar panels, etc.). Green roofs and living facades are expanding to bring fresh air in summer and absorb CO2. These efforts, combined with public awareness (e.g., events like Environment Week), make Monaco a model of sustainable city despite its very small size.

In summary, Monaco’s environment is carefully preserved and contributes to an exceptional quality of life for residents. Breathing pure sea air, enjoying maintained green spaces and a clean city where nature finds its place… all of this is part of everyday life in Monaco, often making one forget they are in the heart of a city. The marriage of urban luxury and environmental respect is a challenge Monaco meets successfully.

Daily life, shops and community integration

Everyday life in Monaco would not be complete without mentioning residents’ daily routines in terms of shopping, leisure, and social life. Although renowned for its luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants, the Principality also meets residents’ everyday needs with a range of local shops and services.

For grocery shopping and daily errands, Monaco has several supermarkets and markets that facilitate daily life. The Condamine Market, on Place d’Armes, is a historic covered market (open since 1880) highly appreciated by locals: each morning you can find stalls of fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, cheeses, flowers, as well as caterers and stands offering local cuisine where you can grab lunch. This village atmosphere in the heart of the city is a true convivial asset. Additionally, supermarket chains exist: a Carrefour hypermarket is located in the Fontvieille Shopping Center (with a broad selection of French and international products), another supermarket (formerly Casino, currently rebranding) is near Place d’Armes, and specialized food shops (butcheries, bakeries, delicatessens, wine shops) are spread across neighborhoods. Even on Sundays, essential shopping is possible, as some stores are open and the market operates in the morning. Prices in Monaco are generally higher than in neighboring France, but the quality of products and services makes the experience pleasant – and many residents combine local purchases with shopping across the border to optimize their budget.

Regarding leisure and social life, Monegasque residents enjoy a rich calendar of cultural, sporting, and high-society events throughout the year. The Principality hosts internationally renowned events (Formula 1 Grand Prix, Monaco Yacht Show, Rose Ball, concerts at the Grimaldi Forum, etc.) as well as numerous activities accessible to residents: museums (Oceanographic, Nouveau Musée National de Monaco, etc.), theaters and the Opera, sports clubs and cultural associations for all ages. Leisure facilities are of high quality – including the Louis II Stadium and its sports amenities, premium fitness clubs, the open-air Olympic pool at the Port, or Larvotto beaches entirely redesigned for the enjoyment of swimmers and families.

Monaco is also a very cosmopolitan and welcoming community. With nearly 145 nationalities represented among private-sector workers, the population is extremely diverse. To help everyone integrate, the Club of Foreign Residents in Monaco (CREM) plays a major role. This government-supported association, founded in 2010, facilitates the reception of foreign newcomers. CREM includes members from more than 46 different nationalities and regularly organizes activities, evenings, and tours to create social bonds. New residents find an active social and professional network there, ideal for making connections in a privileged setting. The Club offers conferences, tastings, cultural outings, regional surveys, contributing to quick and enjoyable integration into Monegasque life. The Principality encourages such initiatives that strengthen cohesion among residents of all origins. Furthermore, many other sports, charitable, or artistic associations welcome new members – an excellent way to immerse oneself in local life.

In terms of everyday services, Monaco offers everything one expects from a modern city: efficient postal services (integrated with La Poste française for international mail), high-end beauty treatments, emergency transport available within minutes, personal services (babysitting, home cleaning) easily accessible through agencies or word-of-mouth within the community. The geographic proximity to France also facilitates logistics (for example, to call in a craftsman or have a product delivered from Nice or Menton for specific needs).

Ultimately, daily life in Monaco is both easy and pleasant. Residents benefit from a high level of service in all practical areas, allowing them to focus on what matters most: enjoying the climate, professional opportunities, and the rich social and cultural fabric the Principality offers. Moving to Monaco means adopting a privileged lifestyle where every aspect of daily life – healthcare, transportation, schooling, shopping, entertainment – is optimized by a secure, clean, and well-organized environment. This general guide to services and everyday life in the Principality has presented the key points to know without going into every detail: feel free to consult our dedicated articles to delve deeper into each topic (health, security, education, transport, etc.) and best prepare your move to this small country with great qualities.

Future residents quickly notice: Monaco knows how to combine modern efficiency and Mediterranean quality of life. It is this unique combination that makes everyday life in the Principality an experience as exceptional as it is enviable.