Milan skyline - Italy
Italy

Living in Milan

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

NomadIQ

6.4/10

Monthly

$2,330

Safety

4.6/10

Country

Italy

Monthly Cost

$2,330

Internet

95 Mbps

Safety

4.6/10

Rent (1BR)

$1,686

Living in Milan — Quick Take

Best for: Those open to trade-offs

Cost level: Moderate ($2,330/mo)

Main downside: Requires neighborhood research

Quick Facts

Monthly Budget

$2,330/mo

Moderate
Safety Rating

4.6/10

Variable
Internet

95 Mbps

Fast
Apartment Rent

$1,686

Pricey
Typical Income

$2,197/mo

Population

1.4M

Major City
Updated for 2026Based on real cost data

Monthly Living Cost Breakdown

Rent (1 Bedroom)
$1,686
Rent (Family)
$3,434
Groceries
$420
Transport
$45
Healthcare
$150
Internet
$30
Estimated Total (Single)$2,330/mo

Who Is Milan For?

Remote workersGood fit

Infrastructure and costs align well with remote work lifestyles.

RetireesCould work

The cost and security balance could work for retirees.

Looking for something more affordable? Consider Kaohsiung.

Best Neighborhoods in Milan

4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Brera tops the list at /10

One of Milan’s most charming and artistic neighborhoods, known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant gallery scene, attracting creatives, tourists, and those seeking a refined cultural atmosphere.

Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Milan, Italy.

Pros and Cons of Living in Milan

Pros

  • Reasonable cost of living compared to major Western cities
  • Adequate internet speed for most remote work needs

Cons

  • Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
  • High rental costs - expect $1685.93+ for 1BR

Job & Income Overview

Avg Local Salary

$2,197/mo

Salary-to-Rent Ratio

1.3x

Local salaries struggle against housing costs here. International income makes a difference.

Local wages fall short of covering full living costs—most expats have additional income streams.

Cost Insight

Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 72% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.

For comparison, Kaohsiung runs about $808/month—188% less.

Common Questions About Milan

How much does it cost to live in Milan?

Expect roughly $2,330 monthly. This includes housing, groceries, transport, and utilities.

Is Milan safe for expats?

Milan is variable by neighborhood with a 4.6/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.

Is Milan good for remote workers?

With 95 Mbps average speeds, Milan is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.

How much is rent in Milan?

A 1-bedroom averages $1,686/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.

Calculate Your Cost in Milan

Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle

Explore More About Milan

NomadIQ Score

6.4

out of 10

Good

Quick Stats

Safety Score

4.6/10

Internet Speed

95 Mbps

Monthly Cost

$2,330

Explore Similar Cities

Also in Italy

Final Thoughts

Milan is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $2,330, a safety score of 4.6/10, and internet speeds of 95 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Milan deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.

Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.