Italy remains a top choice for international students and families seeking quality education and a vibrant lifestyle at manageable costs. In 2025, the cost of living in Italy ranges from €900–€3,500 (INR 92K–3.59L) per month depending on your profile and location.
From student dorms to family apartments, expenses vary across cities like Milan, Rome, and Naples. With smart budgeting and access to financial aid, living in Italy can be both enriching and affordable.
In this guide, you'll read more about:
Average monthly and annual living costs in EUR and INR
City-wise comparisons including rent and lifestyle expenses
Detailed breakdowns of housing, food, transport, and more
Budgeting tips, scholarships, and cost-saving strategies
How Italy compares to other European countries in affordability
Italy offers a dynamic blend of culture, education, and affordability, making it a prime destination for international students and families. The cost of living in Italy varies based on lifestyle, location, and family size. For single individuals, monthly expenses (excluding rent) average around €868 (INR 89K), while families of four spend approximately €3,103 (INR 3.19L).
For Indian students, understanding the cost of living in Italy for Indian students is crucial for budgeting. Cities such as Milan and Rome tend to be more expensive, while Bologna and Naples offer more affordable options.
Here are the average figures:
Category
Average Monthly Cost (EUR)
Average Monthly Cost (INR)
Single Person
€868
INR 89K
Family of Four
€3,103
INR 3.19L
Student Budget
€900–€1,300
INR 92K–1.33L
Note: Costs vary by region, the cost of living in Milan Italy is higher than the cost of living in Rome Italy or cost of living in Venice Italy.
Italy’s urban landscape offers a wide range of living experiences, from the fashion-forward streets of Milan to the historic charm of Rome and the canals of Venice. The cost of living in Italy varies significantly across cities, influenced by rent, groceries, transport, and lifestyle choices.
Milan, often considered the most expensive city, has a higher cost index due to premium housing and dining. Rome and Venice follow closely, while cities like Bologna and Naples offer more budget-friendly options, especially for students and families.
Here is the comparison:
City
Avg Monthly Cost (EUR)
Avg Monthly Cost (INR)
Milan
€1,500–€1,800
INR 1.54L–1.85L
Rome
€1,400–€1,700
INR 1.44L–1.75L
Venice
€1,300–€1,600
INR 1.33L–1.64L
Bologna
€1,100–€1,400
INR 1.13L–1.44L
Naples
€1,000–€1,200
INR 1.03L–1.23L
Hence, Milan leads in cost, while Naples remains the most affordable among major cities.
Living in Italy involves a mix of fixed and flexible expenses. Based on Numbeo, housing and utilities account for nearly 45% of monthly costs, followed by food (25%), transport (10–15%), and leisure or miscellaneous (10%).
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation is the largest monthly expense for most residents.
Here are the approximate costs:
Type of Housing
Monthly Cost (EUR)
Monthly Cost (INR)
Student Dormitory
€300–€600
INR 30.8K–61.6K
Shared Flat (Single)
€400–€800
INR 41K–82.1K
Family Apartment
€900–€1,500
INR 92.4K–1.54L
Studio in Milan
€1,200–€1,500
INR 1.23L–1.54L
2BHK in Rome
€1,000–€1,300
INR 1.03L–1.33L
Apartment in Venice
€950–€1,400
INR 97.5K–1.44L
Note: The cost of living in Milan Italy is highest among major cities, while Rome and Venice offer slightly more affordable options.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Food is the second-largest monthly expense after rent, accounting for roughly 25% of total living costs. Students and families can save significantly by cooking at home and shopping smartly.
Note: Students can enjoy free public events and discounts across Italy’s cultural hubs.
Cost of Living Comparison: Italy vs Other European Countries
Italy ranks as one of the more affordable Western European countries in 2025. According to Numbeo, Italy’s Cost of Living Index is 57.2, which is lower than France (64.4), Germany (64.7), and the United Kingdom (64.2). Spain is slightly more affordable with an index of 48.6, but Italy offers better value in terms of rent and groceries.
Rent Index: Italy – 20.2 vs UK – 32.9
Groceries Index: Italy – 59.5 vs France – 70.1
Restaurant Price Index: Italy – 57.4 vs Germany – 60.8
Local Purchasing Power Index: Italy – 93.6 vs UK – 127.4
These figures show that the cost of living in Italy is moderate, making it a smart choice for Indian students and families seeking affordability without compromising on lifestyle.
Country
Avg Monthly Cost (Local & INR)
Italy
€1,300 (INR 1.33L)
France
€1,500 (INR 1.54L)
Germany
€1,400 (INR 1.44L)
Spain
€1,200 (INR 1.23L)
United Kingdom
£1,800 (INR 1.85L)
Italy offers a balanced lifestyle with moderate expenses, especially compared to the UK and France.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Options in Italy
Italy offers a range of scholarships and financial aid programs to support international students, especially those from India. These initiatives aim to make the cost of living in Italy more manageable while promoting academic excellence and cultural exchange.
🇮🇹 Invest Your Talent in Italy (IYT)
Funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Uni-Italia
Open to Indian students pursuing Master’s degrees in Engineering, Architecture, Economics, and Management
Includes a €8,100 scholarship (INR 8.31L) for 9 months
Offers tuition fee exemption and mandatory internships at Italian companies
Courses are taught entirely in English
Italian Government Scholarships
Offered through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs
Priority given to students from developing countries including India
University-Specific Scholarships
Many top Italian universities offer their own financial aid packages:
Politecnico di Milano: Merit-based tuition waivers and living grants
Sapienza University of Rome: Scholarships for international students with academic excellence
University of Bologna: Tuition fee exemptions and study grants
LUISS Guido Carli: Scholarships for Master’s programs in social sciences and law
Regional DSU Grants
DSU (Diritto allo Studio Universitario) is a regional aid program
Offers housing support, meal vouchers, and partial tuition waivers
Based on family income and academic merit
Available in regions like Tuscany, Lombardy, and Lazio
Note: Most scholarships require a valid admission letter and proof of academic performance.
Budget Planning Tips for Students in Italy
Managing the cost of living in Italy as a student requires smart choices and financial discipline. With monthly expenses ranging from €900–€1,300 (INR 92K–1.33L), students can stretch their budgets by making informed decisions about housing, food, and transport.
Here are actionable tips to help Indian students plan better:
Choose university dorms or shared flats to reduce rent costs
Use regional student transport cards for discounted travel
Shop at local markets and cook meals instead of eating out
Apply for DSU grants and Erasmus+ aid early in the academic year
Track expenses using budgeting apps like Revolut or Wise
Buy second-hand books and furniture from student groups or thrift stores
Attend free public events and museum days for entertainment
Use student discounts on mobile plans, subscriptions, and travel
Budgeting well can make the cost of living in Italy for Indian students much more manageable.
Conclusion
Italy offers a rich blend of culture, education, and affordability, making it a top destination for international students and families. With monthly expenses ranging from €900–€3,500 (INR 92K–3.59L), the cost of living in Italy remains manageable when planned wisely.
Whether you're heading to Milan, Rome, or Naples, Italy promises a rewarding experience without overwhelming costs.
What are the hidden costs students often overlook while living in Italy?
Students often forget to budget for residence permit renewals (€70–€130 / INR 7K–13K), health insurance (€150 / INR 15K), mobile plans, laundry, and printing. These recurring costs can add up quickly and significantly affect the overall cost of living in Italy.
How does the cost of living in Italy vary between urban and rural areas?
Urban cities like Milan and Rome cost €1,300–€1,800/month (INR 1.33L–1.85L), while rural towns like Perugia or Bari range from €700–€900/month (INR 70K–92K). Rent and food are cheaper in rural areas, but access to transport and jobs may be limited.
Are there any tax benefits or exemptions for international students in Italy?
International students are taxed only on income earned in Italy. If working part-time, they fall under lower tax brackets. Italy doesn’t tax foreign income unless students become fiscal residents, which helps reduce the cost of living in Italy for Indian students.
What financial documents should Indian students prepare before moving to Italy?
Students must show proof of funds, minimum €6,079/year (INR 6.25L), 6-month bank statements, ITRs, sponsor letters, and insurance coverage of €30,000 (INR 30.8L). These documents are essential for visa approval and managing the cost of living in Italy during studies.
How do Italian banking systems support international students with budgeting?
Banks like UniCredit and Intesa Sanpaolo offer student accounts with low fees. Apps like Revolut and Wise provide multi-currency support, expense tracking, and free international transfers, helping students manage the cost of living in Italy efficiently.
What are the best apps for tracking expenses while studying in Italy?
Students use Revolut, Wise, Splitwise, and Mint to track spending. These apps help monitor rent, groceries, and travel costs, offering real-time insights and budgeting tools. They’re essential for managing the cost of living in Italy without overspending.
How much does it cost to apply for a student visa for Italy?
The visa fee is €116 (INR 12K). Additional costs include a €16 tax stamp (INR 2K), €30.46 residence permit fee (INR 3K), and €70–€130 renewal charges (INR 7K–13K). These should be factored into the total cost of living in Italy.
What is the average cost of textbooks and study materials in Italian universities?
Textbooks cost €200–€400/year (INR 20K–41K). Many universities offer digital resources and library access to reduce expenses. Technical and medical courses may require higher spending, so students should budget accordingly to manage their academic cost of living in Italy.
How do cultural habits in Italy influence daily spending for newcomers?
Italians value quality dining, fashion, and social outings. Students may spend more on coffee (€1.50 / INR 2K), aperitivo, and weekend travel. Cooking at home and using student discounts can help balance lifestyle choices with the cost of living in Italy.
What are the most affordable ways to furnish a student apartment in Italy?
Students can buy second-hand furniture via Facebook Marketplace or Mercatopoli. IKEA offers budget-friendly options. Furnished rentals reduce upfront costs. Spending €200–€400 (INR 20K–41K) is typical for basic setup, helping students manage the cost of living in Italy efficiently.
How do part-time jobs impact student budgets in Italy?
Part-time jobs help students cover living costs like rent and groceries. Students can earn €500–€800/month (INR 51K–82K), depending on hours and city. While not enough to cover all expenses, it eases the cost of living in Italy and supports daily needs.
What is the cost of childcare and schooling for expat families in Italy?
Childcare costs range from €300–€600/month (INR 31K–62K), while international school fees can reach €10,000/year (INR 10.3L). Public schools are free but taught in Italian. Families should budget carefully as education significantly affects the overall cost of living in Italy.
How do inflation and currency fluctuations affect Indian students in Italy?
Inflation increases rent, food, and transport costs annually. Currency fluctuations impact INR-to-EUR conversions, affecting tuition and living expenses. A weak rupee means higher costs for Indian students, making it vital to monitor exchange rates while budgeting for life in Italy.
What are the costs involved in renewing residence permits in Italy?
Renewal costs include a €30.46 permit fee (INR 3K), €16 tax stamp (INR 2K), and €70–€130 processing charges (INR 7K–13K). These are recurring annual expenses that students must plan for as part of the cost of living in Italy.
Are there any free or subsidized meal programs for students in Italy?
Yes, many universities offer subsidized meals at campus cafeterias for €3–€5 (INR 300–500). DSU grants may include meal vouchers. While not entirely free, these programs help reduce food expenses and make the cost of living in Italy more manageable for students.
How much should students budget for weekend travel and short trips within Italy?
Students should budget €50–€150/trip (INR 5K–15K), covering transport, food, and entry fees. Using student rail passes, booking hostels, and traveling off-season can reduce costs. Weekend travel is a common part of student life and adds to the cost of living in Italy.
What are the costs associated with student clubs and university activities?
Most clubs charge €10–€30/year (INR 1K–3K). Sports, cultural, and academic groups may have additional event fees. Some universities offer free memberships. These costs are minor but should be included when calculating the overall cost of living in Italy for students.
How do Italian supermarkets compare in pricing and quality for groceries?
Supermarkets like Lidl and Coop offer affordable groceries. Monthly grocery bills range from €200–€350 (INR 20K–36K). Esselunga and Conad provide higher quality but at slightly higher prices. Choosing budget chains helps students manage the cost of living in Italy effectively.
What emergency expenses should students plan for while living in Italy?
Students should set aside €300–€500 (INR 31K–51K) for emergencies like medical visits, travel delays, or lost documents. Unexpected costs can arise anytime, and having a buffer ensures financial stability while managing the cost of living in Italy.
How do students manage money transfers between India and Italy efficiently?
Students use platforms like Wise, Revolut, and Western Union for low-fee transfers. Wise offers real-time exchange rates and fast delivery. Avoiding traditional bank transfers helps reduce fees and delays, making it easier to manage the cost of living in Italy from abroad.
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