Cost of Living in Italy for Foreigners in 2025

May 13, 2025 by Anne Baker

Thinking about moving to Italy? One of the first questions most foreigners ask is: “How much does it cost to live there?” Whether you're dreaming of a countryside retreat or a vibrant city lifestyle, understanding the cost of living in Italy for foreigners is essential to planning your new life.This guide covers average costs for rent, groceries, transportation, and more—so you can prepare with confidence.

1. Housing Costs in Italy

Rent prices vary significantly depending on location:

Rome (city center): €1,100–€1,600 per month (one-bedroom)
Florence (outside center): €700–€1,000
Southern Italy (small towns): €400–€700

💡 Tip: Many expats rent before buying to get a feel for their new area.

2. Utilities and Internet

Expect to pay between €100–€200/month for basic utilities including electricity, heating, and water. Internet (high-speed, unlimited) typically costs €25–€35/month.Older homes may have higher heating bills in winter due to poor insulation.

3. Groceries and Everyday Essentials

Food prices are generally reasonable, especially if you shop at local markets:

Single person: €200–€300/month
Couple: €350–€500/month
Family of four: €600–€800/month

Cooking at home with fresh ingredients can reduce costs and improve your lifestyle.

4. Transportation

Public transport is reliable and budget-friendly in most Italian cities:

Monthly metro/bus pass: €35–€55
Fuel for a car: Around €1.80 per liter
Train travel: Efficient and affordable, especially for regional routes

In rural areas, having a car is often necessary, but in cities, many expats rely on trains and buses.

5. Healthcare

Italy has a strong public healthcare system. As a legal resident, you can register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) for an annual fee (typically €150–€400 depending on your income level).Private healthcare is available and affordable:

General doctor visit (private): €50–€100
Specialist appointment: €80–€150

6. Dining and Entertainment

Pizza and a drink: €10–€15
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: €25–€35
Movie ticket: €8–€12

Italy also hosts many low-cost or free cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

7. Example Monthly Budget

Here’s a rough monthly budget estimate for a single person:In a large city (like Rome or Milan):

Rent: €1,200
Utilities: €150
Groceries: €250
Transport: €50
Miscellaneous: €100
Total: Around €1,750/month

In a small town or rural area:

Rent: €600
Utilities: €120
Groceries: €200
Transport: €80
Miscellaneous: €100
Total: Around €1,100/month

Final Thoughts

The cost of living in Italy can be surprisingly manageable—especially if you embrace the local lifestyle. Whether you're settling in a bustling city or a quiet village, a little preparation goes a long way.Want to confidently handle conversations about rent, bills, shopping, and healthcare in Italian?Our online Italian course teaches you the vocabulary and phrases you’ll need for daily life—tailored specifically for foreigners making the move.