
'That branch of Lake Como, which turns to the south, between two unbroken chains of mountains...': this is the famous beginning of The Betrothed, set in the Lombard town. Como, situated on the shores of the lake of the same name, is a city immersed in natural beauty and scenery, offering a high quality of life thanks to its geographical location, wealth of services and numerous opportunities for recreation and personal growth. That's why living in Como could be a great idea: let's see everything you need to know before moving there.
Where to live in Como: the best neighbourhoods

Deciding where to settle can be a challenging decision, as each area has something unique to offer. Moreover, being a very quiet place, you will not have to worry about areas to avoid in Como.
Historic Centre
The historic centre of Como is famous for its cobbled streets, historic buildings and lively nightlife. If you appreciate historical architecture and city energy, this might be the perfect area for you.
To get an idea of the price of rentals and houses for sale you can consult the following links:
Sagnino
For those looking for a quieter life, the peripheral residential areas offer a slower pace of life, but with all the necessary services close at hand. Sagnino, for example, is a residential area on a hillside offering breathtaking views of the lake and the city.
To get an idea of the price of rentals and houses for sale you can consult the following links:
Lake Como
If you prefer to live by the water, the areas around Lake Como are ideal. These areas offer a unique combination of natural beauty and access to a range of outdoor activities such as sailing and hiking.
To get an idea of the price of rentals and houses for sale you can consult the following links:
Finally, for those seeking luxury, there are many luxury villas and flats available in various parts of the city. These properties offer a combination of modern comforts and historical charm, making Como a popular choice among those seeking a high-end residence. Among the most famous owners in the area, for example, is the American actor George Clooney.
If, on the other hand, you are looking for a transitional housing solution in Como, you can consult this link:
Cost of living in Como

How much does it cost to live in Como? To answer this question, it is first important to note that, as in any city, it varies depending on the lifestyle one leads. However, we can give a general idea of how much it might cost to live in this charming Lombardy city.
As far as rent is concerned, prices can vary widely. In the city centre, a studio flat can cost around €600 per month, while a two-bedroom flat can cost up to €1,000. In outlying areas, prices are generally lower.
As far as transport is concerned, Como offers several options for travelling to other cities in the region such as Lecco or Varese. The cost of a bus ticket is €1.40.
Price comparison: Como, Lecco, Varese

The price of each house varies depending on the neighbourhood and the type chosen. In May 2023, the average sales price in Como was 2,355 €/m2. As far as rent is concerned, the average price stood at €14.2/m2 in May 2023. To find out how much it costs to live in Como, consult the following links:
Lecco
Given the frequent connections between the two cities and their ideal relationship, many wonder what the difference is with the real estate market in Lecco. You can observe the numbers and trends by clicking here:
Varese
Como and Varese have a strong ideal link and are therefore often compared. You can observe the numbers and trends by clicking here:
Living in Como and working in Milan or Switzerland
It is increasingly common for many people to choose to live in Como and work in Milan or Switzerland. This option makes it possible to reconcile a quiet life with the hectic pace of Milan and the Swiss rhythm.
Milan
The distance between the two cities is about 50 km, which makes daily commuting possible. The train is the most common means for this journey, with frequent services connecting Como to Milan in just over an hour. In addition, the A9 motorway offers a direct road connection, although traffic can be heavy during rush hours.
Although it may seem a challenge, living in Como and working in Milan is an increasingly popular option. The key to managing this situation is organisation.
Switzerland
Como is immediately on the Italian border with Switzerland. For this reason, many who meet the appropriate job requirements seek professional positions in Ticino, where Italian is predominantly spoken. Transport is very easy: by motorway you can reach Lugano in a few minutes. From Como, there is a regional train to Locarno.