How much money do you need to live comfortably in Italy?

Have you ever dreamed of settling down in the picturesque Tuscan countryside? Maybe you’re considering a career change with some of Milan or Rome’s top companies? Or perhaps you just want to spend your days sipping espresso and strolling through the ancient streets of Rome.

Whatever your reasons may be, Italy has quickly become one of the top destinations for expats looking to broaden their horizons – offering an enticing blend of culture, cuisine, and lifestyle.

But here’s the real question: how much does la dolce vita really cost?

Let’s take a closer look at how much it really costs to live comfortably in Italy – from basic necessities and housing to the healthcare and entertainment scene.

What are the average living costs in Italy?

If you’re going to call Italy home, it helps to have an idea of what you’ll spend. Italy’s cost of living ranges depending on location – with northern regions and major cities being more expensive than areas in the south. 

While Milan and Rome command premium prices, smaller cities and rural spots can give you more affordable options without sacrificing the Italian lifestyle you’re looking for. 

Recent research shows that the average Italian resident’s monthly expenses range from €1,400 to €2,700 in major cities, while a family of four should budget between €3,000 and €4,500. But don’t worry – there’s plenty you can do to make the most of your budget no matter where you live.

Let’s break down the most significant cost factors to see how you can make life in Italy work for you.

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What are the housing costs in Italy?

The primary expense you’ll face in Italy is housing. While there are options nearly anywhere you wish to live in Italy, you’ll want to consider the price before you start packing your bags. The costs range depending on the region:

• Milan (city centre): €1,100–€1,600 for a one-bedroom apartment
• Rome: Around €1,023 for a one-bedroom apartment
• Florence: Approximately €696 for a one-bedroom apartment
• Southern cities (like Lecce): €350–€430 for a one-bedroom apartment

For more on house prices for sale and rent in Italy, check out our price reports. 

Utility costs in Italy

Having a roof over your head is one thing, living comfortably is another! Utility costs (electricity, gas, water, etc.) will vary on the location, but here’s a snapshot of what you might expect month-to-month:

• Basic utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): €130-200 for a single person
• Internet connection: €30-50
• Mobile phone plan: €10-30

You may find that expenses fluctuate depending on the weather – with southern regions paying a bit more to stay cool in the summer. You’ll also have options when it comes to choosing your internet and phone plans, which can help offset some of the cost.

What are the average costs for groceries and food?

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If there’s one thing Italy is famous for, it’s the cuisine. Whether you opt for fresh produce from local markets or shop at stores, you can expect your food costs to vary based on your diet and desires:

• Monthly grocery budget (single person): €200-300
• Monthly grocery budget (family of four): €850-1,250
• Fresh produce from local markets tends to be cheaper than supermarkets
• Basic necessities such as bread (€1.45-3.65), milk (€1.20/litre), and local cheese (€12-15/kg)

How much does transportation cost?

Like many modern European destinations, Italy does an excellent job of providing access to all parts of the country. You can opt for public transport within the cities, or you can hop across the countryside with the city's bus system. 

But beware: Italy is notorious for having some of the highest fuel costs in Europe – so if you plan to have a vehicle, be prepared to add that to your budget!

• Monthly public transport pass: €35-50
• Single bus/metro ticket: €1.50-2.00
• Taxi starting rate: €3-5
• Fuel costs: Among the highest in Europe – ranging from €1.80-2.00 per litre

Healthcare costs In Italy

When living in another country, you’ll want the comfort of knowing quality healthcare is close at hand. Luckily, Italy’s healthcare system is excellent – and is affordable for both typical wellness visits as well as emergency stays:

• Public healthcare (SSN): Free for residents
• Private health insurance: €100-300 per month for expats
• Dental visit: €50-100
• Basic doctor's consultation: €50-80 if private

Can you live comfortably on €1,500 a month in Italy?

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The above are just a few of the necessary costs of life in Italy – which don’t include entertainment, travel, or special occasions. So, can you live comfortably on €1,500 a month in Italy?

The answer is yes – if you are prepared to stick to a strategic budget. This monthly budget is feasible in some of the smaller cities and rural areas, but you may find it hard to stretch the money in cities such as Milan or Rome. For example, €1,500 a month in a smaller town could cover:

• Rent in a smaller apartment: €500-700
• Monthly utilities and internet: €150-200
• Groceries: €250-300
• Transportation: €50
• Entertainment and miscellaneous: €200-300

Is €35,000 A Good Salary In Italy?

What about when you look at salary – can you make €35,000 work in Italy? Coming in at around €2,000-2,200 net monthly, this salary is above the national average and would provide for a comfortable lifestyle in the country. 

However, you’ll still want to pay close attention to the average monthly costs in larger cities – especially if you are planning to support a family.

Tips to reduce your monthly living expenses in Italy

Choose Your Location Strategically

When choosing where to live, take care to compare different locations and living situations – southern rural areas or cities may be more accessible than more expensive digs in the north.

Shop at local markets

Italy is famous for its local markets – so don’t be afraid to get out and explore the fresh, seasonal produce at many of the region’s farmers markets and local sellers. 

Make use of public transportation

Another way to save is by opting for public transport over the cost of owning your own car. You may have to sacrifice some convenience, but you’ll save on the high fuel costs as well as insurance and maintenance.

Think about shared housing

Sharing and renting space together is a great way to reduce the overall cost of living in Italy. If you can, splitting rent or other expenses among multiple people can save you money in the long run.

Living in Italy 

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So, can you live comfortably in Italy? Absolutely! 

Living comfortably in Italy is all about choosing the right place to live – and building a budget around a lifestyle that fits the region. 

Before you make the move, consider all the different aspects of your lifestyle and research those costs in your destination. Remember that the above costs are all averages – and may vary depending on your lifestyle as well as the country’s economy. 

With proper planning and realistic expectations, la dolce vita may be more attainable than you think!

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