Cost of Living in Italy 2025: A Complete Expat Guide

Italy has always been a dream for many—delicious pasta, Renaissance art, and that irresistible “la dolce vita” lifestyle. But let’s get real for a moment: before you pack your bags and head to Rome, Milan, or Florence, you need to ask yourself the big question—what is the cost of living in Italy in 2025?

Because let’s face it, Italy might be romantic, but rent and groceries don’t pay themselves.


Average Cost of Living in Italy in 2025

The cost of living in Italy depends on where you live and how you live. Big cities like Milan and Rome are pricier than smaller towns in the south.

Here’s a rough breakdown of monthly expenses for a single expat in 2025:

  • Rent (1-bedroom apartment):

    • City center: €900 – €1,500

    • Outside center: €600 – €1,000

  • Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): €150 – €220

  • Internet & Mobile: €25 – €40

  • Groceries: €250 – €400

  • Public Transportation Pass: €35 – €55

  • Dining Out: €15 – €25 for a mid-range meal, €3 for an espresso ☕

On average, you’re looking at €1,200 – €1,800 per month to live comfortably as a single expat in Italy.

Cost of Living in Major Italian Cities (2025)

Rome 🇮🇹

  • Rent (1-bedroom in center): €1,100 – €1,600

  • Monthly transport: €50

  • Overall monthly budget: €1,600 – €2,200

Milan 

  • Rent (1-bedroom in center): €1,300 – €1,800

  • Monthly transport: €55

  • Overall monthly budget: €1,800 – €2,500

Florence 

  • Rent (1-bedroom in center): €900 – €1,300

  • Monthly transport: €45

  • Overall monthly budget: €1,400 – €1,900

Naples 

  • Rent (1-bedroom in center): €700 – €1,000

  • Monthly transport: €40

  • Overall monthly budget: €1,200 – €1,600

Tip: Northern Italy (Milan, Turin, Bologna) is more expensive than southern regions (Naples, Bari, Palermo).

Lifestyle Costs in Italy

Food and Groceries 

Italy is heaven for foodies, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Weekly groceries can cost around €60 – €100. Fresh produce and pasta are affordable, but imported goods and dining out in tourist areas can get pricey.

Healthcare 

Italy has a public healthcare system (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale), which is affordable compared to the U.S. Expats often pay around €100 – €150 yearly for public healthcare registration. Private insurance is extra but still cheaper than American prices.

Entertainment & Leisure 

  • Movie ticket: €8 – €12

  • Gym membership: €35 – €60/month

  • Night out with dinner and drinks: €40 – €70

Is Italy Affordable for Expats in 2025?

Compared to the U.S. or Northern Europe, Italy can be affordable, especially if you live outside the big cities. But affordability also depends on your expectations. A modest lifestyle in a smaller Italian town can cost you less than €1,200/month, while a luxury lifestyle in Milan can easily go beyond €3,000/month.

Related Question: Is Italy a Good Place to Live in 2025?

Now that you know the costs, the next question is—is it worth it?

Living in Italy is about more than just expenses. It’s about culture, lifestyle, and whether the positives outweigh the challenges. I’ve written a full breakdown in my blog “Is Italy a Good Place to Live in 2025? Real Expat Truths”, where I share the real pros and cons from an expat perspective. You can check it out here.

Final Thoughts

The cost of living in Italy in 2025 is manageable if you budget wisely. With affordable groceries, public healthcare, and cheaper southern cities, it’s possible to live well without spending a fortune.

But remember: cost is just one part of the story. If you’re seriously considering moving, don’t forget to ask yourself—is Italy a good place to live long-term? That’s where my full expat truths come in handy.

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