Italy is a popular tourist destination, known for its rich history, culture, and food. That’s the main reason why people dream about living in Italy as well. But before you move, it is important to learn more about the living expenses here. So, is it expensive to live in Italy? We will discuss the answer to this question by understanding the cost of housing, food and eating out, and clinical costs in Italy.
While many people think that Italy is an expensive country, it is not completely true. In fact, Italy is the 4th cheapest country in Western Europe. The average net salary in Italy is €1,572 (US$1,699) per month, and this needs to be considered when planning your move.
Moreover, the delicious Italian food is popular all around the world. All these things make Italy an attractive place; a place you must definitely go to, at least once in your lifetime. However, even if you are just travelling to Italy or are planning to move to the place for work, you need to know about the cost of living in this country. Your life in Italy, either permanently or for a short while, will depend on how much money you would require to live comfortably in this beautiful city.
Cost of Living in Italy
While many people think that Italy is an expensive country, it is not completely true. Yes, living in the major cities would definitely be expensive than living in the small towns of Italy. However, the cost of living in Italy would depend on several factors. First is the location you are planning to stay at. Apart from this, your lifestyle and standard of living would also decide how much money you would require to live in Italy.
1.Housing
The cost of housing in Italy changes altogether depending upon the area. In huge metropolitan networks like Rome, Milan, and Florence, the cost of renting a one-room space can go from €700 to €1500 every month. Regardless, in additional unassuming metropolitan networks and towns, the cost of housing is a ton lower. Let’s take an example. You can rent a one-room space for €400 to €800 reliably in metropolitan associations like Bologna and Naples.
The cost will depend upon the region and the kind of property if you have any desire to buy a property in Italy. A one-room flat can cost between €200,000 to €500,000 in gigantic metropolitan affiliations.
The cost of living in Italy for most everyday items can be costly, explicitly in metropolitan regions. Regardless, expecting you will live in additional unassuming towns, you can make sensible housing decisions.
The cost of buying property varies significantly:
- In smaller cities and towns: Properties start from €50,000
- Rural areas near cities like Contigliano: Fixer-uppers from €45,000
- New construction and refurbished farmhouses: From €250,000
2.Food and Eating Out
Italy is known for its delectable food, and eating out is an immense piece of Italian culture. The expense of food in Italy is by and large reasonable, particularly in the event that you shop at neighborhood markets and cook at home. Seven days of nourishment for two people can cost around €50 to €70.
Typical grocery costs:
- Milk (1 litre): €1.30-1.50
- Eggs (12): €2.97-3.84
- Tomatoes (1kg): €1.77-2.54
- Bread: €0.94-1.51
- Local wine: €5.64-9.00
If you like to eat out, the cost can vary depending on the kind of bistro. A banquet at a neighborhood trattoria can cost around €15 to €20 per person. Regardless, if you eat at a Michelin-included bistro, the cost can be essentially as high as €100 per person.
The cost of food in Italy is generally sensible, especially accepting you shop at adjacent business areas and cook at home. Eating out can be exorbitant, but there are sensible decisions open.
3. Clinical Expenses:
One of the Italy travel benefits it has a public clinical benefits structure that gives free or insignificant cost clinical thought to its inhabitants. If you are spending time in Italy, you are equipped for public clinical consideration. Regardless, in case you are not a tenant, you ought to purchase private medical care.
The cost of private clinical service in Italy varies depending upon your age and prosperity status. By and large, a crucial clinical service methodology can cost around €100 to €200 every month.
The cost of clinical costs in Italy can be sensible if you are equipped for public clinical benefits. In case you are not qualified, you ought to purchase private medical care, which can be exorbitant.
Public healthcare in Italy is highly affordable, with basic insurance costing around €12.50 per month. Private healthcare options range from €100-200 monthly. Once you have lived in Italy for six months and have your Permesso di Soggiorno and Carta d’Identità, you qualify for the Italian National Health Insurance coverage.
So How Expensive Is Italy?
In short, the cost of living in Italy differs from person to person. While singles can live comfortably with an annual income between 20,000 and 25,000 Euros, couples would require somewhere between 25,000 and 40,000 Euros to live in Italy. If the idea of travelling or living in Italy, amidst beautiful structures, marvelous lakes, enormous mountains and amazing coasts, really interests you, you need to first apply for a visa. The Italy visa application process would depend on whether you want a residential visa or a tourist visa. A travel agent would be able to help you with the details.
How much does a one week, two weeks, or one month trip to Italy cost?
A one week trip to Italy can cost anywhere from $800-$1,500 per person, depending on factors like accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. A two week trip generally runs $1,500-$2,500 per person. For a one month trip, budget around $3,000-$5,000 per person.
Costs are lower if you stay in hostels instead of hotels, take public transportation instead of taxis, and prepare some of your own meals. The major variables are lodging and the number of cities you visit.
Is Italy expensive to visit?
Yes, Italy is generally considered an expensive country for travelers, especially big tourist cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence. However, it’s possible to visit Italy on a budget by choosing less expensive destinations like Sicily or Southern Italy, staying in hostels or Airbnb, using public transportation, and not eating out for every meal. The currency in Italy exchange rate also impacts costs for international visitors. Overall, though, Italy is one of the more expensive destinations in Europe.
So, what are the cheapest cities to live in Italy?
Some of the most affordable cities to live in Italy include cities in the south like Naples, Palermo and Catania in Sicily, Cagliari in Sardinia, and Bari and Lecce in Puglia. These areas tend to have lower costs of living, especially for housing, groceries, and other essential expenses.
Smaller towns and cities in central and northern Italy like Perugia, Florence, Padua, and Parma also offer savings compared to the biggest metros. Additionally, Lecce offers a variety of attractions and activities, making it a vibrant place to live. For example, you can explore its baroque architecture, visit historical sites, and enjoy local cuisine — there are many things to do in Lecce. Avoid places like Rome, Milan, and Venice if you’re looking to minimize costs.
Utilities’ Cost
Monthly Utility Costs in Italy:
- Basic utilities package: €198
- Internet (60 Mbps): €27.60
- Water: €150 average
- Electricity: €200-250
- Total utility costs typically range from €250-300 per month depending on location and usage
How about the Transportation Expenses in Italy?
Public transportation in Italy is generally affordable, with trains, buses, metros, and trams connecting most cities and towns. Local public transit costs around €1-3 per ride. Intercity high-speed trains start around €15-20 one-way. You can save money by booking train tickets in advance.
Taxis are convenient but expensive – expect to pay €10 minimum for short rides, plus €1 per bag, €1 per extra passenger. Driving your own car allows flexibility but you’ll pay for gas and parking. Scooters or bikes can also be rented affordably in many places.
Clothing and Personal Care Costs in Italy
Clothing and personal care items bought from grocery or drug stores in Italy are priced similar to other Western European countries. Name brands tend to be expensive while house brands offer savings. On average, a liter of shampoo is €2-5, toothpaste is €2-3, laundry detergent is €4-8 per liter. A pair of jeans ranges €50-100 from major retailers. However, Italy is also known for its fashion industry so you can find great deals at sample sales and outlets, especially in cities like Milan. Haircuts are €10-25 on average and salon services like coloring start around €50.
The Cost of Activities in Italy
Italy offers endless cultural and recreational activities, but costs can add up, especially for tourists on a budget. Museums, galleries, monuments, and historical sites usually charge admission fees, though some offer free entry days. Expect to pay around €10-25 per major site or museum. Multi-attraction passes are available in some cities to save money.
1. Food Tours
Food tours and cooking classes let you dive into Italy’s famous food culture. Prices for group tours are generally €50-150 per person for 3-5 hours. Hands-on cooking classes range €75-200 including ingredients and meals. Wine tours of vineyards and tastings are also popular, starting around €150 per day.
2. Exploring Outdoors
If exploring the outdoors, lift passes for skiing and snowboarding at Italian mountain resorts go for €30-50 per day. In the summer, beach clubs along Italy’s coastline charge entrance fees around €10-30 per day for lounge chair rentals and amenities. Hiking trails, parks, and landscapes like Cinque Terre offer free access.
3. Nightlife and Entertainment
Nightlife and entertainment vary by location. In major cities, tickets to theaters, concerts, and sport matches can be €30-300 each. Taking in an opera at La Scala in Milan or visiting a Serie A football match will be at the higher end while small music venues and bars offer entertainment on a budget.
When budgeting for a trip to Italy, allot higher amounts for sightseeing, cultural activities, shows, and anything traditionally Italian like gondola rides in Venice. But you can offset those costs by enjoying affordable local public parks, markets, and street food. Tracking daily averages over the length of your stay helps give you a clearer picture of what to spend where.
Final Words
Your life in Italy would largely depend on your lifestyle and the way you spend. Nevertheless, one thing you can be definitely sure about is that with so much to see and do, you would definitely have a great time here.