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Cost of Living in Italy | Expat Exchange
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Turin, Italy

Cost of Living in Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 01, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Italy is generally considered to be quite high. A nice one bedroom apartment in Italy can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,000 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Italy can range from $20 to $50 per person.

Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Is the cost of living in Italy high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Italy, they wrote:

"That really depends... In Minturno, a couple who want to live simply, using the bus and train for transportation, $20,000/year would suffice," remarked one in Minturno.

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Will I save money living in Italy?

"Saving money while living in Milan can be challenging. However, it's possible with careful budgeting and lifestyle adjustments. Opting for less expensive neighborhoods, cooking at home, and taking advantage of public transportation can help reduce expenses. Taking advantage of local markets, seasonal sales, and free or low-cost cultural events can also contribute to saving money," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

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What is the average cost of housing in Italy?

If you are thinking about moving to Italy, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"It really depends where you look. I bought a delightful old stone row house type of home, 4 bed, 2 bath with a large terrace and glorious view in a 500 yr old building for $54,000. It's definitely livable but could use upgrades. I also bought a penthouse 1 bedroom apt, tiny but with a great view and wrap around balcony on three sides one block outside of the old town in Vicenza with elevator and a garage parking spot for $110,000," explained one expat living in Italy.

"Our housing costs are higher here only because of the higher rate of electricity. Electricity is very expensive here. I don't know the average rate of housing here," said one expat in Bergamo.

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AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

Learn MoreGet Quote

AGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Italy?

"Typical rents in Milan vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation. In central areas such as Brera, Navigli, and Porta Romana, rents are higher, often exceeding 1,500 euros per month for a one-bedroom apartment. In more affordable neighborhoods like Lambrate or Bovisa, you can find one-bedroom apartments for around 800 euros to 1,200 euros per month. Larger apartments and those with modern amenities or located in prestigious buildings can command even higher prices. It's essential to consider the trade-off between proximity to the city center and rental costs when choosing a place to live," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

"The rental cost of a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Italy can vary drastically based on the city, size, and amenities, ranging from around 500 to 3,000 US dollars per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment could range from around 700 up to 4,000 US dollars per month," said one expat living in Italy.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Italy what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Italy, rental properties often come with a basic kitchen setup, which usually includes a stove, oven, and refrigerator. It's common for rentals to be unfurnished or semi-furnished, so major appliances and furniture may need to be provided by the tenant. Always confirm with the landlord or real estate agent what is included in the rental to avoid surprises upon moving in," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!

Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

"When renting a home in Italy, the typical appliances that come with the property include a refrigerator, stove, and clothes washer. Many homes also come equipped with air conditioning units and internet access. Some homes may also offer dishwashers, while others might provide access to a communal pool or gym. Additional amenities such as access to a shared garden or balcony may also be available," said one expat living in Italy.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Turin, Italy

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