Accommodation in Italy: Renting Costs, Best Cities, and Tips

Latest update:

• Italy’s student accommodation costs have risen by 8–12% compared to 2024.
• The Rome Jubilee 2025 is projected to boost accommodation demand by 25%, pushing prices up, especially in Rome.

Accommodation in Italy plays a huge role when planning your study or work journey. Need student housing options in Italy or furnished apartments for rent in Italy? Understanding rent trends early can make your move easier. The average rent for students in Italy usually ranges from €300 to €700 (₹27,000–₹63,000) per month, depending on the city and type of housing.

Here’s what you will find in this guide:

• Rent comparison between Rome, Milan, Florence, and Bologna
• Best cities in Italy for international students and expats in 2025
• Short-term and long-term accommodation options in Italy for students, professionals and families
• Tips on how to find affordable housing in Italy
• Temporary housing choices if you're moving last-minute

For a detailed breakdown of living costs and accommodation tips, check out our Cost of Living in Italy guide.

Italy offers a beautiful mix of affordable education, rich culture, and exciting student cities. If you're planning your move, start by exploring:
– Bachelor’s Programs Abroad if you are planning undergraduate studies.
– Master’s Programs Abroad for postgraduate courses across Italy and Europe.

Average Rent in Italy for Students, Professionals, and Families

Group	Average Monthly Rent	Common Housing Choices
Students	€300–€700 (₹27,000–₹63,000)	Shared rooms, dormitories, small studios
Professionals	€600–€1,200 (₹54,000–₹1.08 lakh)	1BHK apartments, furnished flats
Families	€900–€1,800 (₹81,000–₹1.62 lakh)	2–3 bedroom apartments, suburban homes

This graph shows the average monthly rent per square meter across different Italian regions for October 2023.

Student Accommodation in Italy: Housing Types and Popular Cities

Accommodation in Italy offers students plenty of choices if they plan ahead. Whether you prefer university dormitories, shared flats, or a private studio, understanding the housing types and average rents across cities helps you make better decisions.

Common Types of Student Housing in Italy

Here’s a quick overview of student housing options in Italy:

Housing Type	Features	Average Monthly Rent
University Dormitories	On-campus, basic amenities, shared rooms	€250–€500 (₹22,000–₹45,000)
Shared Apartments	Private rooms, shared kitchen and living area	€300–€600 (₹27,000–₹54,000)
Private Studios	Fully independent, often furnished apartments	€500–€900 (₹45,000–₹81,000)

Students looking for short-term accommodation in Italy often choose shared apartments or dormitories for flexibility and lower costs.

Best Cities for Students in Italy

Some of the best cities in Italy for international students include:

• Rome: Large universities, rich culture, higher rents
• Milan: Fashion, business hubs, slightly higher living costs
• Bologna: Affordable rent, strong student communities
• Florence: Art, history, and many international programs

Bologna and Florence often rank among the cheapest cities to live in Italy 2025 for students compared to Rome and Milan.

Get a full breakdown of living expenses in this guide on Cost of Living in Italy.

Rent for Students in Italy

The average rent for students in Italy varies widely based on the city:

City	Typical Student Rent (Monthly)
Rome	€400–€800 (₹36,000–₹72,000)
Milan	€450–€850 (₹40,500–₹76,500)
Bologna	€300–€600 (₹27,000–₹54,000)
Florence	€350–€700 (₹31,500–₹63,000)

Rent comparison between Rome, Milan, and Bologna shows Bologna is much more budget-friendly for students.

On-Campus vs Private Housing in Italy

Choosing between student dormitories vs private rentals in Italy depends on your budget and lifestyle.

Factor	On-Campus Housing	Private Rentals
Cost	Usually cheaper	Slightly higher
Flexibility	Fixed contracts	More flexible
Privacy	Shared rooms	More personal space

University dormitories offer affordability and easier social connections. However, renting a private apartment gives you more independence.

Popular Rental Platforms for Students in Italy

Students usually find student accommodation in Italy through trusted websites like:

• HousingAnywhere – Student-focused, short-term and long-term rentals
• Uniplaces – Verified properties near universities
• Spotahome – Virtual viewings, great for moving from abroad
• Idealista – Local platform for furnished apartments in Italy

Starting early on these platforms helps you find temporary housing options in Italy before arrival.

Tips to Secure Housing Early in Italy

Finding good housing takes planning. Here’s what helps:

• Start searching 4–5 months before your semester begins
• Compare furnished apartments for rent in Italy if you want to avoid buying furniture
• Ask universities about partnerships with housing agencies
• Always check rental contracts carefully before signing
• Consider short-term rentals if you are unsure about staying long in one city

Moving to Italy becomes much easier when you lock in housing early and stay flexible with options.

Curious about the best academic options? Check this Best Universities in Italy.

Explore broader opportunities with this guide on Study in Italy.

Planning for higher education? Read this detailed post on Masters in Italy.

Interested in affordable options? Here’s a closer look at Public Universities in Italy.

Accommodation in Italy for Working Professionals: Where and What to Rent

Accommodation in Italy offers young professionals and expats many choices if they know where to start looking. The right city and housing type early can make your work life easier, whether you prefer the fast pace of Milan or the historic charm of Rome.

Housing Overview for Professionals and Expats in Italy

Working professionals usually choose between studios, one-bedroom apartments, or shared flats, depending on their lifestyle and budget.

Housing Type	Features	Average Monthly Rent
Studio Apartments	Ideal for singles, minimal setup	€500–€900 (₹45,000–₹81,000)
1BHK Apartments	Good for singles or couples	€700–€1,200 (₹63,000–₹1.08 lakh)
Shared Housing	Cost-effective, social living	€350–€700 (₹31,500–₹63,000)

Many working professionals prefer furnished apartments for rent in Italy to avoid extra costs and save time.

Top Cities for Work Opportunities in Italy

Some of the best cities in Italy for expats 2025 are:

• Milan: Italy’s financial, fashion, and tech capital. Higher rents but strong career growth.
• Rome: Ideal for roles in government, tourism, media, and culture. Vibrant lifestyle with a rich history.
• Bologna: Rising tech and education hub. More affordable than Milan with an excellent quality of life.

Rent comparison between Rome, Milan, and Bologna shows Bologna as a more budget-friendly choice for young professionals.

Average Rent for Professionals in Italy

Here’s a quick look at average rental costs for professionals:

City	Studio/1BHK Rent Range (Monthly)
Milan	€700–€1,300 (₹63,000–₹1.17 lakh)
Rome	€600–€1,100 (₹54,000–₹99,000)
Bologna	€500–€900 (₹45,000–₹81,000)

Renting an apartment in Italy as a professional depends on whether you prefer city centers or suburbs, as well as access to public transport.

Transportation and Commute Options in Italy

Living close to work or near public transport hubs makes life easier:

• Milan: Metro, buses, and trams make commuting fast and efficient.
• Rome: Metro covers most central areas. Buses and trams are better for reaching outer neighborhoods.
• Bologna: Compact city, popular for biking and efficient bus routes.

Accommodation near an MRT station or metro line saves a lot of time and commuting costs.

Visa and Work Permit Renters’ Advice for Italy

When renting, expats must prepare:

• A copy of a valid work visa or permit
• Passport identification
• Proof of employment or work contract
• Sometimes proof of income (bank statements or salary slips)

Tip: Some landlords prefer tenants who can commit to a 12–24 month lease. However, serviced apartments and short-term leases are options if you are unsure about your long-term stay.

A proper understanding of the local rental process helps avoid last-minute surprises when moving to Italy for work.

Applying for your student visa? Follow this Student Visa for Italy guide for step-by-step help.

Need to draft your SOP? Here’s a SOP Guide for Italy tailored for Italian universities.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Italy: Best Areas and What to Expect

Accommodation in Italy suits families who prioritize space, safety, and good schools. However, finding the right area takes planning, especially when moving with children.

Housing Options for Families in Italy

Families in Italy usually choose larger apartments, villas, or suburban homes that offer space, privacy, and community facilities.

Housing Type	Features	Average Monthly Rent
2–3BHK Apartments	Good for small to medium families	€900–€1,800 (₹81,000–₹1.62 lakh)
Villas	Spacious, private gardens, premium locations	€1,500–€3,000 (₹1.35 lakh–₹2.7 lakh)
Suburban Homes	Affordable, more outdoor space, quieter areas	€800–€1,400 (₹72,000–₹1.26 lakh)

Families often prefer suburban areas where accommodation in Italy offers better space without the high prices of city centers.

Best Family-Friendly Cities in Italy

Some of the best cities in Italy for expats 2025 who are moving with children include:

• Verona: Safe neighborhoods, excellent international schools, parks like Giardino Giusti
• Florence: Strong education options, healthcare access, and many child-friendly cultural events
• Turin: Affordable family homes, top-ranked schools, low crime rates, lots of playgrounds

Verona and Turin offer larger homes at a lower cost compared to cities like Milan and Rome.

Rent Overview for Family-Sized Units in Italy

Rent for family accommodation depends on city and property type:

City	Family-Sized Rent Range (Monthly)
Florence	€1,000–€2,000 (₹90,000–₹1.8 lakh)
Verona	€900–€1,600 (₹81,000–₹1.44 lakh)
Turin	€800–€1,500 (₹72,000–₹1.35 lakh)

Cost of living in Italy for families stays manageable if you choose suburbs or smaller cities instead of the historic centers.

Access to Schools, Hospitals, and Parks in Italy

Families living in Italy enjoy strong public infrastructure. Here’s what to expect:

• Schools: Many international schools offer English and bilingual programs in Florence, Verona, and Turin
• Hospitals: Public healthcare is excellent; many cities have dedicated children's hospitals
• Parks and Playgrounds: Italy values outdoor life, and most suburbs have clean, well-maintained parks nearby

A neighborhood close to parks and schools makes daily life much easier for expat families.

Family Lifestyle Considerations in Italy

Families planning a move to Italy should think about:

• Space: Suburban homes offer more square footage for less money
• Cost: Larger apartments in the city center can be double the price of suburban homes
• Commute: Living in suburbs may add 20–30 minutes to daily commutes, but offers quieter, greener environments
• Community Life: Many suburbs and mid-sized cities host family festivals, outdoor events, and local markets

Finding the right balance between cost, space, and location makes settling into family life in Italy much smoother.

Explore funding opportunities with Scholarships for Italy.

Looking for fully funded options? Here’s a list of Fully Funded Scholarships in Italy.

Tips for Finding the Best Accommodation in Italy

Accommodation in Italy can be affordable and convenient if you start with the right information. So before signing any rental agreement, it’s important to know the common do’s and don’ts that help you avoid mistakes.

Do’s When Renting in Italy

Tip	Why It Matters
Use Verified Sites	Platforms like Immobiliare.it, Idealista, and HousingAnywhere offer secure listings.
Sign a Written Contract	Protects your rights and ensures clarity on rent, deposit, and duration.
Book Early	Renting an apartment in Italy as a student or expat gets competitive by May–July. Early booking secures better deals.

Don’ts When Renting in Italy

Mistake	Why You Should Avoid It
Paying Without an Agreement	Always sign a contract before any money transfer to avoid scams.
Ignoring Hidden Costs	Check if rent includes utilities, maintenance, and taxes.
Skipping Property Inspection	Visit or request videos before finalizing. Online pictures alone are not enough.

Finding the best student accommodation options in Italy or family housing becomes easier when you stay alert and informed.

Still deciding? Here are the top Reasons to Study in Italy.

How upGrad Abroad Supports Students Moving to Italy

upGrad Abroad offers full support for students — from IELTS and TOEFL preparation to university shortlisting based on budget, preferences, and career goals.

Students also get expert help with visa documentation, guidance for renting affordable student housing options in Italy, and career counseling for life after graduation.

Connect with upGrad Abroad and make your move to Italy seamless!

Not sure which Italian city or university fits your goals and budget? Book a free counseling session and get expert advice based on your course and accommodation needs.

You can also explore free courses to strengthen your profile before you apply.

Conclusion: Is Accommodation in Italy Affordable for Expats and Students?

Accommodation in Italy is affordable for expats and students who plan early and pick cities wisely. Milan and Rome have higher rents, but cities like Bologna, Verona, and Turin offer spacious housing at lower monthly costs.

Pros:

• Wide range of rental options across cities
• Affordable student dormitories and shared apartments
• Public transport access reduces daily living costs

Cons:

• Higher rents in tourist-heavy cities like Milan and Florence
• Short-term rentals may cost more without early booking

Final Verdict:
With smart planning, early booking, and location choices, finding affordable accommodation in Italy is possible for students, young professionals, and expat families alike.