Planning to live in Italy in 2025? Wondering about the cost of living in Italy? Expect to spend €850–€1,100/month (₹75,000–₹97,000) if you're a student, and €2,000–€2,800/month (₹1.75–₹2.45 lakh) for a working couple or family. Housing takes up the biggest share—especially in cities like Rome and Milan—followed by groceries, transport, and utilities.
For Indian students, shared apartments help reduce rent. For families, costs rise with daycare, school supplies, and healthcare. Southern cities like Bari or Palermo are cheaper but come with trade-offs in job access and public services.
This guide breaks down monthly expenses in Italy for international students, rent in key cities, food budgets, transportation cost in Italy 2025, and real-life tips to manage your Italy living cost as an Indian student or expat.
Looking for global study options before planning your Italy budget?
Cost of Living in Italy in 2025 – Monthly Budget Breakdown
Italy offers a balanced mix of affordability and lifestyle quality. But your monthly expenses in Italy will depend on where you live, your housing type, and daily habits. Students typically need €800–€1,200/month (₹71K–₹1.07L), while families and working professionals might spend €1,800–€2,500/month (₹1.6L–₹2.2L).
Cost of Living in Italy in 2025
Profile
Monthly Cost (€/INR)
Notes
International Student
€800–€1,200 (₹71K–₹1.07L)
Shared housing, public transport, home-cooked meals
Working Professional
€1,400–€1,800 (₹1.25L–₹1.6L)
Private apartment, dining out, utilities, transport
Couple
€1,700–€2,300 (₹1.5L–₹2.0L)
One-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment, shared costs
Family of Four
€2,200–€2,500+ (₹1.95L–₹2.2L+)
Includes rent, food, school, transport, and healthcare
Totals combinerent in Italy for students and families, groceries, transportation cost in Italy 2025, and basic living. Compare these figures with the average salary vs cost of living in Italy—the national net average is about €1,646 (₹1.48 L) per month.
Rent and Accommodation: Cost of Living in Italy for Students and Expats
Housing is the biggest contributor to Italy living cost for Indian students and international residents. Rent prices vary based on the city (Rome, Milan, Florence vs Palermo, Bari), and whether you live in a student dorm, shared flat, or private apartment.
Rent and Accommodation Costs in Italy
Type of Accommodation
Monthly Rent (€/INR)
Notes
Student Dorm (Shared)
€300–€500 (₹27K–₹45K)
Cheapest, often includes utilities
Shared Apartment
€400–€600 (₹35K–₹53K)
Common for students, split rent and bills
Studio/1BHK – Outside Centre
€500–€800 (₹45K–₹71K)
More affordable, quieter suburbs
1BHK – City Centre
€700–€1,000 (₹62K–₹89K)
Higher rent in Rome, Milan, Florence
3BHK for Families
€950–€1,300 (₹84K–₹1.16L)
Best for couples or families living together
Rent in Italy for students and families is cheaper outside city centers, especially in southern cities like Naples or Palermo.
Food and Grocery Expenses: Cost of Living in Italy in 2025
Grocery shopping is fairly affordable across Italy, but habits vary. Students stick to supermarkets like Lidl or Eurospin and often cook at home. Working professionals mix home meals with the occasional lunch out. Families tend to shop weekly at large markets or hypermarkets.
Expect the monthly grocery cost in Italy to range between €250–€400 (INR 22K–35K) depending on dietary choices and city.
Food and Grocery Costs in Italy – Monthly Budget
Item
Avg. Cost (€/INR)
Notes
Milk (1L)
€1.44/₹110
Fresh, common brand
Bread (500g)
€2.03/₹155
Italian loaf or packaged sliced
Eggs (12)
€3.47/₹265
Regular, supermarket
Rice (1kg)
€2.58/₹200
White long-grain
Chicken (1kg)
€10.75/₹820
Boneless breast, local brand
Tomatoes (1kg)
€2.85/₹220
Roma tomatoes or similar
Cheese (1kg)
€14.25/₹1,090
Local varieties like Pecorino or Parmigiano
Water (1.5L bottle)
€0.45/₹35
Pack of 6 bottles available
Wine (mid-range bottle)
€6.00/₹460
Affordable domestic bottle
Dining Out: Italy Food and Dining Expenses for Foreigners
Eating out occasionally is part of Italian life. Students eat at campus cafeterias or grab a panini, while families dine at trattorias over weekends. Budgeting around €100–€150/month (INR 9K–13K) for dining out is reasonable.
Italy Dining Expenses in 2025 – Meals, Cafes, and Weekend Eating Out
Transportation Costs in Italy for Students and Workers
The transportation cost in Italy 2025 is manageable thanks to robust public systems. Metro, trams, buses, and trains make urban travel easy. Student discounts and monthly passes help reduce costs.
Transportation Costs in Italy
Transport Type
Avg. Cost (€/INR)
Notes
One-way ticket (bus/metro)
€1.70/₹130
Flat fare in most cities
Monthly pass (urban transport)
€36.53/₹2,870
Varies by city and eligibility
Taxi start fare
€5.00/₹390
Base charge
Taxi (per km)
€1.50/₹115
Urban traffic dependent
Bike rental/sharing schemes
€15–20/month/₹1.2K–1.8K
Common in student cities
Most students in Milan, Bologna, and Rome rely on monthly public transport passes, while professionals may use bikes or scooters for short commutes.
These low costs make it easier to control monthly expenses in Italy for international students and help manage overall Italy living cost for Indian students.
Utilities stay moderate compared with rent. Expect the cost of utilities in Italy for a family in an 85 m² flat to average €193 (₹17 K) a month, with winter heating pushing the top end. Mobile and broadband prices remain low by EU standards.
Utility and Internet Costs in Italy – Monthly Expenses in 2025
Service
Average Monthly Cost (€/₹)
Note
Electricity + Heating + Water
€193 (₹17 K)
Range €121–€309; higher in northern winters
Internet 60 Mbps+ (unlimited)
€27 (₹2.4 K)
Fibre & ADSL packages, no data cap
Mobile plan (10 GB+)
€12 (₹1 K)
Pre-paid SIMs often cheaper for students
Budgeting tips for living in Italy as a student: split bills with flat-mates, use SIM-only deals, and turn off heating during shoulder seasons.
Health Insurance and Medical Costs in Italy
Italy’s public system (SSN) covers residents, but non-EU students and workers must buy private insurance for visa approval. Basic student plans start at €150; full private cover for professionals runs higher.
Healthcare and Insurance Costs in Italy for International Residents
Cover Type
Cost (€/ ₹)
What It Includes
Student health plan (annual)
€150–€300 (₹13 K–₹27 K)
GP visits, emergency care
Private expat policy
€600–€1,200 (₹53 K–₹1.1 L)
Specialists, hospital stay, dental add-ons
Public ER visit (without SSN)
€25–€50 (₹2 K–₹4 K) triage fee
Extra charges for scans/tests
Healthcare expenses in Italy for international residents stay lower than many EU countries, provided you carry valid insurance from day one.
Personal Expenses and Lifestyle Spending in Italy (2025)
Personal spending significantly affects the Cost of Living in Italy, especially for students and expat families. Daily lifestyle choices—like gym subscriptions, dining out, and shopping—can push monthly budgets beyond rent and transport.
Personal Expenses in Italy – Lifestyle, Fitness, Travel, and Shopping
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (€/₹)
Notes
Gym Membership
€49/₹4,400
Most gyms offer student discounts (up to 20%)
Movie Ticket
€9/₹800
Average cost for international releases
Branded Jeans (Levi’s)
€79/₹7,100
Common price in chain stores
Restaurant Meal for Two (3-course)
€70/₹6,300
Mid-range restaurants in cities like Rome, Milan
Weekend Travel (Train + Meals)
€50–€80/₹4,400–₹7,000
Based on regional destinations and 2nd class tickets
Coffee (Cappuccino)
€1.68/₹150
Common café price across Italy
Italy living cost for Indian students often increases with frequent dining out and branded purchases. Many manage better by:
Choosing fixed student menus (around €10–€12)
Traveling with Italo or Trenitalia promo tickets
Shopping at outlet malls or during seasonal sales
These habits can reduce overall monthly budget in Italy for expat families and ensure better cost control without missing out on leisure.
Education Costs in Italy for International Students in 2025
Tuition fees in Italy depend on university type, course language, and residency status. Public universities are highly affordable—even for non-EU students—making Italy a top pick for budget-conscious learners.
Education Costs in Italy – Public vs Private University Fees in 2025
Education Type
Annual Tuition (€/₹)
Additional Costs
Public Bachelor’s (non-EU)
€1,000–€2,800/₹90K–₹2.5L
Application fee €50–€100, books €250–€400
Public Master’s (non-EU)
€2,000–€5,000/₹1.8L–₹4.4L
Thesis, lab costs, materials ~€300
Private University Degree
€6,000–€20,000/₹5.3L–₹17.5L
Common in fields like fashion, business, design
English-Taught Programmes
+€500–€1,500/₹45K–₹1.3L
Often added to standard tuition fees
Italy living cost for Indian students must include:
Shared apartment costs in Italy for students: €300–€600/month (₹26,400–₹52,800) – based on city, roommates, and distance from university
Student health insurance in Italy:
Public (SSN): €149/year (₹13,100)
Private: €500–€800/year (₹44,000–₹70,400)
Visa financial proof in Italy (non-EU students): You need to show at least €6,100/year (₹5.37L) in funds plus proof of prepaid accommodation.
Use this data to budget your monthly expenses in Italy for international students and plan for cost of living in southern vs northern Italy, where fees and rent often vary.
The cost of living in Italy depends on the city. In 2025:
Milan and Rome: Highest living costs. Expect €1,500–€2,200/month (₹1.3L–₹1.95L) for a student or working professional.
Florence and Bologna: Mid-range cities with costs around €1,200–€1,700/month (₹1L–₹1.5L).
Padua and Naples: More affordable. You can manage under €1,000/month (₹87K) with shared housing and local transport.
Rent and food are the biggest cost factors. Students and families can save more in southern or mid-sized cities.
Cost of Living in Milan, Rome, Florence, and Other Italian Cities (2025)
City
Estimated Monthly Cost (€ / ₹)
What Drives the Cost
Milan
€1,400–€2,000 (₹1.25L–₹1.78L)
High housing demand, business capital, expensive dining and transport
Rome
€1,300–€1,900 (₹1.16L–₹1.7L)
Tourist-heavy zones, cultural hotspots, variable rent
Florence
€1,200–€1,700 (₹1.06L–₹1.5L)
Student city with high tourist flow; prices spike during summer
Bologna
€1,100–€1,600 (₹97K–₹1.4L)
Popular among international students, efficient transport, moderate housing
Padua
€950–€1,300 (₹84K–₹1.14L)
Affordable rent, quiet student-friendly neighborhoods, low entertainment costs
Naples
€850–€1,200 (₹75K–₹1.05L)
Cheapest major city, affordable housing, local food markets cut grocery costs
Living expenses in Rome and Milan are highest due to rent, dining, and transportation. In contrast, cities like Naples and Padua offer better value for students and families on a budget.
If you're a student or working expat trying to reduce your monthly budget in Italy, consider smaller cities with strong public universities and lower daily costs.
Worried about Italy living cost for Indian students or working expats? These tips help you save without compromising comfort:
Opt for shared apartment costs in Italy for students – €300–€600/month (₹26.4K–₹52.8K)
Cook meals at home instead of dining out often; groceries are cheaper than restaurants
Use monthly public transport passes (~€36 or ₹3,200), especially in big cities like Rome and Milan
Buy from local markets or discount grocery chains like Eurospin or Lidl
Leverage student discounts – public transport, museums, libraries, and cultural events
Choose affordable cities – Padua, Bologna, or Naples over Milan or Florence
Track expenses monthly – set category-wise budgets for rent, food, and utilities
Use public services – healthcare via SSN, municipal libraries, free Wi-Fi zones
These budgeting tips for living in Italy as a student or a family can help you keep expenses under control while enjoying a high quality of life.
Is It Cheaper to Live in Italy Than in Other EU Countries?
Yes, Italy is cheaper than countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The Cost of Living Index is 56.91, and rent, food, and transport are lower—especially outside Milan and Rome. Cities like Padua or Bologna offer good education and healthcare with better savings.
You still get a high quality of life (Index: 154.11) and strong purchasing power (95.41) without the high costs seen in Western Europe. For international students or expat families, Italy offers solid value for money and a better monthly budget.
What is the average cost of living in Italy for Indian students in 2025?
The Italy living cost for Indian students in 2025 ranges between €700 and €1,200 per month, depending on the city, type of accommodation, and personal spending habits.
How much does it cost to live in Milan vs Bologna as a student in Italy?
Living expenses in Rome and Milan are significantly higher than in Bologna. Milan students may spend over €1,200/month, while Bologna offers more affordable options at around €800–€950.
Can I manage the cost of living in Italy on a part-time job as a student?
Yes, but only with careful planning. Using smart budgeting tips for living in Italy as a student, many cover food and transport with part-time income, but rent in cities like Milan often needs savings or external support.
Is the cost of living in Italy higher than in Germany or France for Indian students?
In most cities, Italy is not expensive to live in 2025 compared to France. It’s cheaper in terms of tuition and food, but rent can rival Germany in northern cities.
How much should I budget monthly for living in Italy as a working professional?
The monthly expenses in Italy for international students and professionals range from €1,000 to €1,800, depending on city size, rental type, and lifestyle needs.
What is the cost of living in Italy for a couple or married students in 2025?
The rent in Italy for students and families usually starts from €600/month for shared housing. Couples should budget at least €1,400/month to cover rent, food, and utilities.
What’s the average monthly expense for a family of four living in Italy?
A monthly budget in Italy for expat families typically ranges from €2,000 to €2,800, factoring in housing, food, transportation, and childcare or schooling if needed.
Is Italy an affordable study destination for Indian students in 2025?
Yes. With low tuition fees, regional aid, and shared housing, Italy is an affordable study destination for Indian students in 2025, especially outside big cities like Milan or Rome.
How much do Indian PhD students spend on living expenses in Italy?
For PhD students, the monthly expenses in Italy for international students often fall between €800 and €1,100, with most receiving stipends that partly cover rent and daily costs.
Do student scholarships in Italy cover the full cost of living?
No, not always. While many cover tuition and partial housing, student scholarships in Italy rarely cover the full cost of living, so budgeting for groceries and transport is essential.
What are the hidden costs to consider while budgeting for life in Italy?
Hidden costs to consider while budgeting in Italy include residence permits, visa renewals, medical insurance, and university service fees—often not included in scholarship coverage.
Are energy and utility bills included in rent in most Italian cities?
Typically not. The cost of utilities in Italy for a family adds €100–€200/month, depending on usage and city, and is often billed separately from rent.
What’s cheaper in Italy—eating out or cooking at home as a student?
Italy food and dining expenses for foreigners are lower when cooking at home. Eating out regularly can double your food budget, even with student discounts.
How much does public transport cost monthly in major Italian cities?
The transportation cost in Italy 2025 varies by city. Monthly student passes range from €25 in Bologna to €55 in Milan and Rome.
Can families and professionals afford the cost of living in Italy on a local salary?
It depends on the region. The average salary vs cost of living in Italy shows a tighter margin in Milan but more comfort in smaller cities like Palermo or Padua, especially for families.
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