Monaco has once again proven its allure, securing the fourth spot in the Barnes City Index 2025. This prestigious report ranks the 50 most desirable cities for individuals with over $30 million in assets, and Monaco’s high placement is no surprise. In a time of global uncertainty, the report highlights a clear trend: luxury real estate is a safe haven. Cities like Monaco: Top destination for the ultra-wealthy and Milan are seeing a surge in popularity because they provide what Barnes calls a “complete lifestyle experience.”
A sanctuary of style and security
What makes Monaco such a powerful magnet for the ultra-wealthy? The reasons are multifaceted. Beyond its status as a financial hub, the Principality offers a blend of world-class infrastructure, sophisticated living, and an exhilarating cultural and sporting calendar. It’s a place where families can feel secure, knowing they are in a stable environment with top-tier amenities.
Another pillar of its enduring appeal is its incredibly favorable tax environment. With no personal income tax and beneficial conditions for wealth preservation and inheritance planning, Monaco offers a level of fiscal security that few other places can match. As global taxation rises and scrutiny on high-net-worth individuals increases, Monaco’s clear, stable, and investor-friendly framework stands out as a major incentive to relocate or invest.
The most coveted addresses
Within Monaco’s compact borders, every district is prestigious, but three areas are particularly sought after:
- Carré d’Or: Known for its prestige and central location, this is the heart of luxury and exclusivity.
- Larvotto: Offering stunning beachfront residences, this area provides a tranquil escape with a view of the sea.
- Mareterra: A new, innovative eco-district, Mareterra is redefining sustainable luxury with private beaches and a modern, environmentally conscious design.
While smaller apartments are snapped up quickly, larger three- and four-room properties are exceptionally rare and fiercely contested, reflecting the high demand for space and privacy in this exclusive market.
A gateway to the riviera lifestyle
Monaco’s appeal extends beyond its borders, strengthened by its synergy with the wider French Riviera. Many families choose to complement their Monaco base with villas in the elegant Cap d’Antibes or the serene Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Despite average property prices exceeding €50,000 per square meter, demand remains so strong that real estate here is considered one of the safest long-term investments in the world.
The next generation of wealth
The Principality isn’t just for traditional investors. It’s becoming increasingly attractive to younger generations of Ultra High-Net-Worth Individuals. They are drawn not only by stability and security but also by the Principality’s vibrant social scene—from Michelin-starred dining to a thriving sporting calendar. It’s a place that offers both financial security and a dynamic, engaging lifestyle.
Globally, the number of UHNWIs is growing rapidly. There are currently 426,330 UHNWIs with a combined wealth of $49.159 trillion, a figure projected to grow to 587,650 by 2028, with an additional $19 trillion in new wealth entering the market. As this population expands, Monaco’s blend of stability, luxury, and lifestyle will likely keep it at the top of their list.
