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Rome, Italy: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Rome | Expat Exchange
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Piazza del Popolo in Rome

Rome

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Aug 20, 2023

Summary: The approximate population of Rome, Italy is 2.8 million people. People often describe Rome as a vibrant, bustling city with a rich history and culture. Expats love the city's vibrant atmosphere, its delicious food, and its many attractions. The weather in Rome is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (7-24 Celsius). The average cost of living in Rome for an expat is around $2,000 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $1,000 per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $1,500 per month.

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Italian For A While
Italian For A While

What do I need to know about living in Rome?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rome, they said:

"Before retiring in Rome, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Italian, as it will be necessary for everyday life. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in Rome, as it is known to be higher than other parts of Italy. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Rome, as it is different from other countries. Expats should also be aware of the cultural differences between their home country and Italy, and be prepared to adjust to the local customs. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for retirement in Rome, as they may need to apply for a special visa," remarked one expat who made the move to Rome.

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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.
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What do I need to know before moving to Rome?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rome, they said:

"The experience of living in the Eternal City can't be beat. The food is fantastic. Fresh pasta is divine. However, the Italian way of life is very different than that of the US way of life. At times, you will be frustrated and upset. For example, imagine going to the supermarket for days on end and there is no milk or fresh produce because there is a transportation strike going on. All notions of right and wrong do not exist here especially when driving. Italians will honk at you if you are going too slowly and they want to pass you or if you pause to wait for a pedestrian to cross the street you will be yelled at and honked at for not attempting to swerve around the pedestrian. My advice is to try to always remain calm and practice patience. If life gets too exasperating, go have a cappucino or better yet, get some good pizza and pasta and tackle your problem the next day. Another good tip, learn Italian. Make Italian friends who can help you overcome any difficulties," commented one expat who made the move to Rome.

"Rome is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and culture. It is important to be aware of the language barrier, as Italian is the official language of the city. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Rome, which is higher than in many other cities in Italy. Additionally, it is important to research the different neighborhoods in Rome and find one that best suits your needs. Public transportation is widely available and is a great way to get around the city. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette in Rome, as it is a very traditional city," remarked one expat living in Rome, Italy.

How do I find a place to live in Rome?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"When looking for a place to live in Rome, it is important to consider your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you are looking for. There are a variety of options available, from renting an apartment or house to staying in a hostel or hotel. If you are looking for a more permanent residence, you can search online for rental listings or contact a local real estate agent. Additionally, there are many websites that offer short-term rentals, such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and Booking.com. It is also possible to find furnished apartments for rent through websites such as EasyRoommate and Spotahome. Finally, if you are looking for a more traditional living arrangement, you can look for a room in a shared apartment or house," wrote one member in Rome.

"My husband and I looked at over 35 apartments before finally finding the "right" one. We used leasing agents. We lived in a corporate apartment for 3 months and walked around/drove around a lot looking at the buildings and neighborhoods. A lot of the apartments we saw were too dark, the spaces were all cut up into smaller areas, weren't big enough, no elevator available (big consideration when you have small children), etc," remarked one expat who made the move to Rome.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rome?

"We live in a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom (140 square meter) apartment with 3 separate balconies. This is typical for the type of housing available in the city. A little further out of the center, you can find "villinos" which are like townhouses or even villas with gardens. Apartments here are either furnished or unfurnished. In an unfurnished apartment, you may even have to provide your own lights, kitchen appliances and counters," wrote a member in Rome.

"Expat homes and apartments in Rome are typically spacious and modern, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city. Expat homes and apartments are often located in the city center, close to popular attractions, restaurants, and shops. They are typically well-equipped with modern appliances and amenities, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and cable TV," commented one expat who made the move to Rome.

What is the average cost of housing in Rome?

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

"Housing costs are much higher here than where we used to live outside of Seattle, WA. We pay 2077 euros a month for our apartment. This is probably a little below average as our apartment is on the 1st floor. The higher you go up in floors, the higher the rent. We only paid $1500 in a mortgage payment when we lived in Washington State," wrote one member in Rome.

"The cost of housing in Rome can vary greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Rome is around €1,000 to €1,500 per month, while the average cost of buying a property in Rome is around €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter," remarked one expat who made the move to Rome.

How do I meet people in Rome?

When we asked people living in Rome about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Rome often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals," remarked one expat who made the move to Rome.

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What should I bring when moving to Rome?

People living in Rome were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When moving to Rome, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Rome has hot, humid summers and mild winters, so it is important to bring clothing that can be layered. Additionally, it is important to bring comfortable walking shoes, as Rome is a city best explored on foot. It is also important to bring any necessary medications, as well as any important documents such as passports and visas. Finally, it is important to bring any items that will make the transition to a new home easier, such as favorite books, photos, and other sentimental items," wrote one member in Rome.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Rome?

We asked expats in Rome what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in Rome, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Italian, as it will be necessary for everyday life. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in Rome, as it is known to be higher than other parts of Italy. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Rome, as it is different from other countries. Expats should also consider the climate in Rome, as it can be quite hot in the summer months. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for living in Rome, as they may need to apply for a residence permit," wrote a member in Rome.

Will I be able to find a job in Rome?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Rome, they reponded:

"Foreigners often find work in Rome in the hospitality industry, such as working as waiters, bartenders, or hotel staff. Other popular jobs for foreigners include teaching English, working in retail, and providing tour guide services. Additionally, many foreigners find work in the creative industries, such as graphic design, photography, and video production," commented one expat who made the move to Rome.

What is life like in Rome?

When we asked people living in Rome what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Rome as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of culture, history, and art, and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions to explore. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and beautiful architecture. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and plenty of coworking spaces to choose from. Rome is a great place to live for those looking for a unique and exciting experience," remarked one expat who made the move to Rome.

Italian For A While

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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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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What do expats in Rome appreciate most about the local culture?

"I absolutely love the simple, fun, passionate lifestyle that the Italians embrace. I have been lkiving in Venice for the last 4 years and love the lifestyle there too - very family oriented," said one expat in Rome.

"Expats in Rome appreciate the city's rich history and culture, which is evident in its many ancient monuments, churches, and ruins. They also enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city, with its lively piazzas, bustling markets, and delicious cuisine. The locals are also known for their hospitality and friendliness, making it easy for expats to feel at home in Rome. Additionally, the city's mild climate and abundance of outdoor activities make it a great place to live," said one expat who made the move to Rome.

What do expats find most challenging?

"The language continues to be a struggle now that my children attend the local Italian school and all the meetings and paperwork are in Italian. I also long for meaningful friendships with the Italians, but my vocabulary is still too limited to have in depth conversations. My kids are fluent and I so envy them," said one expat in Rome.

"Expats in Rome often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the city's chaotic traffic and the lack of public transportation can be difficult to navigate. Furthermore, the Italian bureaucracy can be complex and time-consuming to understand. Finally, the Italian lifestyle of taking things slowly and enjoying life can be a difficult adjustment for those used to a more fast-paced lifestyle," said one expat who made the move to Rome.

Is there a lot of crime in Rome?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Rome is generally considered a safe city, however, like any major city, there is some crime. Pickpocketing and theft are the most common crimes in Rome, and tourists should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect their belongings. Other crimes, such as drug trafficking, organized crime, and violent crime, are also present in Rome, but are not as common as in other major cities," wrote a member in Rome.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Rome accepting of differences?

"Rome is a diverse city with people from many different backgrounds and cultures. The city is known for its acceptance of different cultures and religions, and there is a strong sense of tolerance and respect for diversity. People in Rome are generally welcoming and accepting of differences, and the city is a great place to experience different cultures and lifestyles," wrote a member in Rome.

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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.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

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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What are the schools in Rome like?

"The International School of Rome (ISR) is one of the best international schools in Rome. It is an independent, non-profit, co-educational day school offering an international curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. ISR offers a rigorous academic program that is based on the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, and is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS). The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The American International School of Rome (AISR) is another excellent international school in Rome. It is a private, co-educational day school offering an American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. AISR is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art. The John Cabot University (JCU) is a great bilingual school in Rome. It is an American university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in English and Italian. JCU is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the Italian Ministry of Education, University and Research (MIUR). The university also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art," said one parent with children at in Rome.

"I definitely recommend this school and believe that the academic level continues to rise with the appointment recently of a new head of school. The school is well run and financially stable. It's a good idea to have your child visit if possible, especially if you seek a boarding situation. There are several other good options for high school, but St. Stephen's and Marymount are the ones closest to the historic center, St. Stephen's having the most convenient location within walking distance," commented one expat when asked about St. Stephen's School in Rome.

What are the pros and cons of living in Rome?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Rome responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the rich culture and history of Rome. They enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful architecture. Additionally, the city's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Rome to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded and noisy," said one expat living in Rome.

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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.

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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.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Rome?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Rome, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Rome typically have an active social life. They often join local clubs and organizations, attend cultural events, and explore the city's many attractions. They also make friends with other expats, retirees and digital nomads, as well as locals, and often meet up for meals, drinks, and sightseeing. Rome is a vibrant city with plenty of opportunities to socialize, so expats, retirees and digital nomads can easily find ways to make friends and have fun," remarked one expat in Rome.

"Rome is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities to take part in. The city is also home to a diverse range of people, making it easy to meet new people and make friends. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a more relaxed evening, Rome has something for everyone," said one expat living in Rome.

What advice to expats in Rome have about housing?

"When looking for housing in Rome, it is important to research the area thoroughly and make sure it is safe and secure. It is also important to consider the cost of living in the area, as prices can vary significantly. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding renting and leasing. It is also recommended to visit the property in person before signing any contracts. Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential for noise and other disturbances in the area, as Rome can be quite noisy," commented one expat living in Rome, Italy.

What are medical services in Rome like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rome, they replied:

"Rome offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. Rome also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, Rome has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide a variety of medications and medical supplies. Rome also has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and therapies," commented one expat who moved to Rome.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rome?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Rome can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services, such as doctor visits and hospital stays, can be high, and the cost of health insurance can also be high. Additionally, the cost of prescription drugs can be expensive, and many people opt to purchase them from pharmacies outside of Italy in order to save money," remarked one expat living in Rome.

Italian For A While

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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Italian For A While

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.

Learn MoreConnect

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Is the cost of living in Rome high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Rome, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Rome is generally considered to be high. Rent prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rome, Italy can range from around $1,000 to $1,500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $1,500 to $2,000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Rome can cost around $20 USD per person," commented one expat living in Rome, Italy.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Rome?

"In order to visit Rome, a visitor must obtain a visa from the Italian Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The visa application process requires the submission of a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Rome, Italy, an individual must apply for a residence permit. This process requires the submission of a valid passport, a completed application form, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and proof of employment or other source of income. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the individual will receive a residence permit valid for a period of up to five years," mentioned one expat inRome.

Why do people move to Rome?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Rome, they responded:

"Rome is a vibrant and historic city that offers a unique cultural experience for expats. The city is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain, making it a great destination for sightseeing. Rome also offers a wide variety of delicious cuisine, from traditional Italian dishes to international flavors. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Additionally, Rome is home to a number of universities and other educational institutions, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to further their studies. Finally, the city's mild climate and Mediterranean atmosphere make it a great place to live and work," commented one expat who moved to Rome.

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.

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