If Monte Carlo is the showroom of Monaco, La Condamine is a more local neighborhood. Located around the iconic Port Hercule, this district is where the Principality feels most like a traditional European town. It is vibrant, historic, and centered around daily local commerce.
For many residents, La Condamine offers the perfect balance. It is less expensive than the Carré d’Or but livelier than the quiet streets of Fontvieille. However, “less expensive” in Monaco is a relative term.
For 2025, La Condamine remains a top choice for young professionals, yacht crew, and business owners. Here is the detailed breakdown of what it costs to live in Monaco’s most authentic neighborhood.
Rents & Real Estate: A Deep Dive
La Condamine is a market of contrasts. Unlike the uniform high-rises of the Larvotto, this district offers a heterogeneous mix of housing stock – from Belle Époque “Bourgeois” buildings with high ceilings (but often no elevators) to modern, glass-fronted residences like Le Stella or Le 45G.
This diversity creates a wider price spread than anywhere else in the Principality. In 2025, La Condamine is undergoing a significant “repositioning,” shifting from a purely functional district to a prime residential address.
The Rental Market: 2025 Price Analysis
The rental market in La Condamine is currently defined by a severe shortage of large family units. While studios remain accessible, competition for 3-bedroom apartments has driven prices up disproportionately.
| Property Type | Monthly Rent Range | Avg. Price per m² | Market Insight |
| Studio | €1,800 – €3,000 | €80/m² | High volume turnover; popular with new residents and yacht crew. |
| 1-Bedroom (2 Rooms) | €2,500 – €4,600 | €80/m² | Prices spike significantly for units on high floors with Port views. |
| 2-Bedroom (3 Rooms) | €5,800 – €15,000 | €80/m² | The entry point for small families. “Bourgeois” units are cheaper than modern ones. |
| 3-Bedroom (4 Rooms) | €8,200 – €18,000 | €120/m² | Trend Alert: The highest price-per-m² jump due to scarcity of large inventory. |
The “Grand Prix” Clause:
A unique feature of renting in La Condamine is the annual Formula 1 Grand Prix. Many leases, particularly for apartments on Boulevard Albert 1er or Rue Grimaldi, include a clause requiring tenants to vacate their balconies or allow the landlord to sell “terrace packages” for race week. In exchange, tenants can sometimes negotiate a slightly lower annual rent or receive a share of the ticket revenue.
Food & Dining: The Market Advantage
The economic heart of the district is the Marché de la Condamine (Place d’Armes). This is not just a tourist attraction; it is a daily money-saver for locals.
- Lunch at the Market: You can eat well at the food hall (Halle Gourmande) for €15 to €25. A plate of local pasta or a salad is far cheaper here than in a formal restaurant. It is common to see billionaires and construction workers dining side-by-side here.
- Groceries: While there is a Casino Supermarket on the port, buying fresh produce at the market stalls allows you to cook high-quality meals for less.
- Dining Out: The pedestrian Rue Princesse Caroline offers “brasserie” style dining. Expect to pay €20–€40 per person for a casual dinner at spots like Bella Vita or Crock’in, significantly lower than the €100+ standard in Monte Carlo.
Lifestyle, Fitness & Events
Living in La Condamine means you are at the center of the action. The district offers a unique blend of wellness and high-octane entertainment that you don’t get in other neighborhoods.
The “Apéro” Culture
La Condamine has the best “after-work” scene in Monaco. Unlike the hushed hotel bars of Monte Carlo, the port area is lively and accessible.
- The Vibe: From 6:00 PM, the bars along the Quai Albert 1er and Rue Princesse Caroline fill up with locals, yacht crew, and finance professionals. It is the most social district in the Principality.
- Cost: A glass of wine or pint of beer typically costs €8–€12 during happy hour, compared to €25+ in the Golden Square.
Fitness
Staying active here is surprisingly budget-friendly due to public investments.
- Hercules Fitness Club: Located directly on the port, this public gym is a favorite among locals. An annual membership is approximately €1,100, which is excellent value compared to private hotel gyms that charge €5,000+.
- Monamove: This is a free, open-air gym located on the sea wall near the port. It offers high-end equipment with a sea view for €0.
- Rainier III Nautical Stadium: In summer, the Olympic-sized pool on the port is open to the public for a small entry fee (approx. €6-8).
Major Events on Your Doorstep
Residents of La Condamine have a front-row seat to Monaco’s biggest events. Note that this can mean road closures and noise, but also unparalleled access.
- The Christmas Village (Dec-Jan): The entire Port Hercule transforms into a “Teddy Bear” wonderland with chalets and rides. Residents can walk down for mulled wine and crepes without worrying about parking.
- Jumping International (July): The equestrian elite gather on the port for this prestigious show jumping event.
- Monaco Yacht Show (Sept): The world’s most expensive superyachts dock right outside your window. While access to the show is paid, the atmosphere in the district is electric.
Transport & Parking
La Condamine is the transport hub of the Principality. The train station (Gare de Monaco) is accessed directly via the Sainte-Dévote valley or underground elevators.
- Monabike: The district is well-served by the electric bike network, which is essential for getting up the steep ramps to Monte Carlo. A monthly pass is roughly €18, making it the cheapest way to commute.
- Parking: Street parking is scarce. Most residents rent a space in public car parks like Condamine or Quai Antoine Ier.
- Monthly Subscription: Approx. €115 – €125 for residents.
- Hourly Rate: €2.70/hour for visitors.
Summary: The Monthly Budget
For a single professional living in a studio or small 1-bedroom in La Condamine, here is a realistic monthly estimation for 2025:
- Rent & Charges: €3,500
- Groceries (Market + Supermarket): €500
- Dining & Social: €1,000 (Focus on market lunches and happy hours)
- Transport & Parking: €150
- Fitness (Public Gym): €100
- Total Estimated: €5,250 / month
Is La Condamine Right for You?
La Condamine offers an authentic, “village” experience that other districts lack. It is generally more affordable than the exclusive Monte Carlo neighborhood but can be louder and busier than the quiet residential streets of Fontvieille.
Considering a move? Check the official requirements in our guide on Conditions for Obtaining Residency in Monaco.