Cost of living in Rome in 2026
🇮🇹 Italy · Capital
What it really costs to live in Rome: rent, groceries, utilities, transport and a realistic monthly budget. Generate a free plan below with a budget tailored to your household.
Monthly costs in Rome
Typical monthly figures shown in USD (local currency in parentheses). Ranges, not exact prices — reviewed July 2026. Always confirm current prices before you budget.
- Rent · 1-bed, city centre
- $1,250–$1,930(€1,100–€1,700)
- Rent · 1-bed, outside centre
- $910–$1,470(€800–€1,300)
- Rent · 3-bed, city centre
- $2,170–$3,180(€1,900–€2,800)
- Utilities (electric, water, gas)
- $126–$218(€110–€190)
- Home internet
- $29–$40(€25–€35)
- Mobile plan
- $17–$29(€15–€25)
- Groceries · one adult
- $260–$380(€230–€330)
- Meal · inexpensive restaurant
- $14–$20(€12–€18)
- Dinner for two · mid-range
- $63–$92(€55–€80)
- Monthly transit pass
- $40–$63(€35–€55)
Living costs · single (excl. rent)
$800–$1,150
Living costs · family of four (excl. rent)
$2,750–$3,650
Cost index vs USA
65/ 100
USA = 100, excluding rent; Numbeo puts Italy roughly 30–40% below the USA.
Income tax (Italy)
VAT / GST
22%
Standard IVA; reduced 10% and 4% rates on some goods and services.
- Sharp contrast between the North (Milan, Turin) and South (Naples, Bari) on rent and wages; a Milan budget is well above the Italian average.
- Public healthcare covers basics well, but private policies are common for fast appointments and dental.
- Historic-centre leases often restrict use (Airbnb, sublets), and deposits run 2–3 months.
- Local-market groceries and seasonal cooking are far cheaper than restaurants in tourist areas.
Sources: Numbeo Cost of Living Italy · Global Cost Data — Italy · PwC Italy — Personal Income Tax.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need to live in Rome?
In Rome, expect roughly $800–$1,150 a month in living costs for a single person, and about $2,750–$3,650 for a family of four, excluding rent (July 2026). Add rent from the breakdown below — a one-bed typically runs $1,250–$1,930 in the centre. Generate a free plan above for a budget matched to your household and priorities.
How much is rent in Rome?
A one-bedroom flat in the centre runs about $1,250–$1,930 a month (€1,100–€1,700); outside the centre it is roughly $910–$1,470. Rents vary sharply by district — always confirm current listings.
How current is this cost data?
These figures reflect July 2026 and are ranges, not exact prices. Every source is linked below. Always confirm current prices locally before you budget.