Cost of Living in Italy
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.
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," said one expat in Minturno.
"Yes, the cost of living in Milan is relatively high compared to other Italian cities, driven mainly by housing expenses. Rental prices, especially in central and desirable neighborhoods, are among the highest in the country. Other significant costs include dining out, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. However, salaries in Milan tend to be higher, particularly in sectors like finance, fashion, and technology, which can offset living expenses," 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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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Will I save money living in Italy?
"Cost of living has increased dramatically in the past 2 years, but petrol prices have dropped. Internet service is cheaper but phones are more expensive. Everything is a trade off. Italy is still a good value for our money," wrote a person living in Minturno.
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:
"The average cost of housing in Italy varies depending on the size, location, and type of property; however, generally speaking, prices tend to be more expensive in cities such as Rome and Milan than in rural areas. Additionally, prices can vary significantly depending on whether one wishes to buy or rent," said one expat 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," remarked one in Bergamo.
Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
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.
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," remarked one expat in Italy.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Italy Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Italy
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Italy
- Best Places to Live in Italy
- Real Estate in Italy
- Guide to Real Estate in Italy
- Pros & Cons of Living in Italy
- Cost of Living in Italy
- Italy's Beloved Cinque Terre
- 8 Incredible Hidden Gems in Italy
- 12 Best Places to Live in Italy
- Healthcare in Italy
- 2024 Guide to Living in Italy
- Pros and Cons of Living in Italy 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Italy
- More Advice about Retiring in Italy