Italy’s charm lies in its lifestyle—la dolce vita. Whether you’re applying for Italian citizenship, retiring abroad, pursuing remote work, or simply exploring a new chapter, you’ll find that Italy offers an enviable quality of life.
Understanding the cost of living in Italy in 2025 is key to planning your move. This Remitly guide breaks down major expenses, from housing and groceries to healthcare and transportation, so you can budget wisely and live well. Let’s dive in and explore how to make your dream of living in Italy a financially sustainable reality.
Housing costs in Italy
Finding the right home is a top priority when relocating to Italy. Housing prices can vary significantly depending on the city. For example, the cost of living in Rome vs. Milan often sparks debate—Rome tends to have slightly lower rents, while Milan commands higher prices due to its status as a financial and fashion capital.
Coastal towns, historic centers, and northern industrial hubs are generally more expensive than rural or southern areas.
Monthly rental costs in major Italian cities
Some of Italy’s largest cities are also the most popular with expats and tend to come with higher price tags. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Florence is €1,600 per month, while a similar apartment in Milan might run closer to €1,800. Rome also has high rental costs, particularly in tourist-heavy or expat-friendly neighborhoods.
Outside major metropolitan areas, housing becomes much more affordable. In a smaller city like Turin, you can often find a 1-bedroom apartment for around €950 per month.
Urban vs. rural living
Choosing to live in a rural area or smaller town can significantly cut your housing costs. In regions like Sicily, a 1-bedroom apartment may cost as little as €400 to €800 per month. However, it’s important to balance affordability with convenience, as access to reliable transportation, healthcare, and local amenities may be more limited than in urban areas.
Buying property in Italy
Purchasing property in Italy can offer excellent value, especially if you purchase outside the big cities. Some small villages even offer €1 homes, though these usually require extensive renovation and a formal application process.
Utilities and bills
Utility costs in Italy are moderate, but can fluctuate based on the size and energy efficiency of your home, as well as seasonal usage. Basic utilities can range from €130 to €200 per month.
Natural gas is commonly used for heating and cooking, particularly in the winter, which can lead to higher bills during the colder months. Some homes come equipped with solar heating options, which can significantly lower energy costs in the summer.
Grocery and food expenses
Food is central to Italian culture, and the good news is that it’s both high-quality and affordable. Groceries in Italy are significantly less expensive than what can be found across the majority of the US.
Italians shop at local markets, and they shop often, opting for multiple trips to the local grocer for the freshest produce vs. doing a bulk shopping trip as many Americans do.
Monthly grocery budget
The average single-person household spends about €150 to €300 per month on groceries. Shopping at major chains like Conad, Coop, or Eurospin can help you keep costs down for staples. For fresher options, you can shop at local open-air markets, which offer fresh products, meats, and cheeses, often directly from local farmers.
Common food costs
- Bread (1 loaf): €0.80-€2
- Milk (1 liter): €1.18-€1.51
- Tomatoes (1kg): €1.77-€2.54
- Eggs (12): €2.97-€3.84
- Bottle of wine: €3-€9
Dining out
Eating out is woven into the fabric of Italian life, and luckily, it doesn’t have to break the bank. While you can splurge on one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants, you’ll also find fantastic, inexpensive options in most neighborhoods. A simple meal at a local eatery costs between €10 and €20, while a mid-range three-course dinner for two might cost €50 to €80.
Everyday pleasures are also affordable: an espresso at the bar costs around €1, a delicious pizza might cost €7 to €10, and a glass of local wine ranges from €5 to €10. Of course, eating out frequently will raise your monthly food expenses, but many expats find they can enjoy a high-quality food lifestyle without overspending.
Transportation costs
Italy has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that includes buses, metros, regional trains, and high-speed rail. The overall cost and convenience of getting around can vary based on where you live, with city vs. rural residents having very different experiences.
Public transportation in Italy
Urban areas have robust public transit systems that allow for easy commuting. The costs don’t vary greatly by city, with a monthly public transportation pass in Rome typically costing around €35, while Milan’s monthly pass is closer to €39. These passes offer unlimited travel within urban zones, making them a cost-effective choice for commuters.
In rural or southern regions, like Calabria and Sicily, public transit may be less reliable, with fewer routes and less frequent service.
Car ownership
If you plan to get your Italian driver’s license, owning a car can offer flexibility and freedom, especially in areas where public transit options are limited. However, costs can add up quickly. Gas prices in Italy are among the highest in Europe, and parking in cities can be both expensive and limited. Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL) restrictions in city centers can also incur fines if violated, another reason many expats skip car ownership when living in cities.
Affordable travel between cities
For longer distances, Trenitalia and Italo high-speed trains connect major cities at impressive speeds and with passenger comfort in mind. Traveling from Rome to Florence, for example, can take about 90 minutes. Tickets can vary by class and are usually cheaper the further in advance you book, but a standard one-way fare might cost around €30 or €40.
Regional trains are often cheaper but take longer and offer fewer amenities. The same journey from Rome to Florence on a regional train costs as little as €20, but takes over four hours.
Beyond trains, you can also use ridesharing apps like BlaBlaCar, which can be a cost-effective way to travel longer distances. One seat in a shared car costs about €9 from Rome to Florence.
Italy’s healthcare system
Italy’s national healthcare system, the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), is highly rated and tax-funded. The SSN provides coverage for Italian citizens and legal residents, including EU citizens and non-EU expats with residency status.
After registering with your local Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL), you’ll be assigned a general practitioner and receive access to the following services:
- General practitioner visits: free
- Emergency care: up to €25, depending on urgency
- Specialist visit: €25 per visit
- Diagnostic tests and lab work: up to €36.15
- Surgeries and hospitalizations: free in public hospitals for covered procedures
- Maternity care: free for all essential prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care
Private vs. public healthcare costs
Although Italy’s public healthcare is comprehensive, many expats opt for private healthcare to reduce wait times and have access to English-speaking doctors. A basic private insurance plan will cost you between €300 and €500 per year, while a more comprehensive private insurance plan can run up to €3,000 annually.
Prefer to pay out-of-pocket? A standard doctor ranges from €50 to €120, and specialist consultations typically cost between €80 and €200. Many expats find that even private care in Italy is more affordable than comparable services in the US.
Dental care is not covered by health insurance in Italy. You can expect to pay €50 to €100 for a routine cleaning.
Pharmacies and medication costs
Pharmacies are widespread in Italy and staffed by highly trained professionals who can assist with minor medical issues.
Medication is significantly more affordable than in the US, especially for generic drugs. For prescription medications, you can expect to pay €2 to €6, and for generic antibiotics, €5 to €15.
You do not need a prescription for many minor medications, but pharmacists may require one for anything stronger.
Leisure and entertainment
Italy’s social and cultural life is one of its biggest draws, and it doesn’t cost a fortune to enjoy. A cappuccino at a local bar costs around €1.20-€1.50, while the beloved tradition of aperitivo (a pre-dinner drink with light snacks) ranges between €5 and €10, depending on the city and venue.
Movie tickets generally cost between €8 and €10, with discounts available on specific weekdays or for students and seniors. Cultural experiences are plentiful and budget-friendly. Museum tickets cost €8 to €15, but many offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month. During the spring and summer, you’ll find music, art, and local food festivals, many of which are free or low-cost to attend.
If you’re more into active leisure, a monthly gym membership ranges from €39 to €76. Alternatively, you may prefer to stay fit with outdoor activities, such as cycling, hiking, or walking through local parks and nature reserves, many of which are free.
Comparing monthly expenses across cities
Want a clearer picture of living expenses in Italy in 2025? Use this breakdown to compare the cost of living across major cities.
| Expense category | Milan | Rome | Florence | Bologna | Turin | Naples | Palermo |
| Rent (1-bedroom in city center) | €1,370 | €1,100 | €1,023 | €995 | €696 | €767 | €600 |
| Utilities | €225 | €205 | €210 | €238 | €201 | €181 | €195 |
| Groceries | €200-€350 | €180-€300 | €180-€300 | €150-€280 | €150-€250 | €150-€250 | €150-€250 |
| Dining out (inexpensive restaurant) | €20 | €15 | €15 | €18 | €15 | €15 | €12 |
| Monthly transportation pass | €39 | €35 | €35 | €36 | €38 | €48 | €31 |
| Monthly gym membership | €65 | €55 | €76 | €59 | €38 | €40 | €39 |
Ready to embrace la dolce vita?
Moving to Italy in 2025 can be affordable with proper planning. While living expenses in Italy do vary based on location and lifestyle, the country offers excellent value for expats seeking a high quality of life. From affordable healthcare and fresh local food to efficient public transportation and a range of housing options, there’s something for nearly every budget.
Once you’ve explored typical monthly costs, you can start budgeting for your Italy relocation and turning your dream into a well-planned reality.
FAQs
Is Italy expensive to live in compared to the US?
Not necessarily. Depending on the region, the cost of living in Italy can be 30-70% lower than the cost of living in the US. Smaller towns and rural areas tend to be more affordable, while major cities like Milan or Rome are closer in cost to large US cities.
Can I access public healthcare as an expat?
Yes! Once you establish residency, non-EU expats can access Italy’s national healthcare system (SSN), often for free or at a very low cost.
What is the average monthly rent in Italy?
Rent varies by location. In major cities like Milan or Rome, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost €1,100 to €1,500 per month. Smaller cities and rural villages can offer rent for under €600 per month.
Is public transportation reliable in Italy?
Generally, yes. Italy has a well-connected train network, and public transit is reliable in most cities. However, buses in rural and southern regions may be less frequent or subject to delays.
How much should I budget for groceries monthly?
Plan to spend between €150 and €300 per month per person on groceries, depending on your eating habits and location. If you cook most of your meals at home and shop at local markets or discount supermarkets, you can stay on the lower end of that range. Eating seasonally can also help reduce your monthly grocery expenses.