Living in Rome
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Italy
Monthly Cost
$1,943
Internet
140 Mbps
Safety
5.3/10
Rent (1BR)
$1,356
Living in Rome — Quick Take
Best for: Adventurous relocators
Cost level: Moderate ($1,943/mo)
Main downside: Street smarts needed
Quick Facts
$1,943/mo
Moderate5.3/10
Variable140 Mbps
Fast$1,356
Mid-range$2,124/mo
2.7M
Major CityMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Rome For?
Infrastructure and costs align well with remote work lifestyles.
Affordable enough if you have steady income.
Retirement here is feasible given the safety and expense levels.
Similar vibe? Check out Selfoss.
Best Neighborhoods in Rome
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Trastevere tops the list at /10
Charming historic district with cobblestone streets, lively squares, traditional trattorias, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Rome, Italy.
Pros and Cons of Living in Rome
Pros
- Reasonable cost of living compared to major Western cities
- Fast internet (140 Mbps) - great for remote work
Cons
- Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$2,124/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
1.6x
The salary-to-rent picture isn't great—many expats rely on foreign income sources.
Living on local income is possible but leaves little margin for lifestyle upgrades.
Cost Insight
Costs in Rome are moderate—not dirt cheap, but manageable for most remote workers.
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 70% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
For comparison, Selfoss runs about $1,670/month—16% less.
Common Questions About Rome
How much does it cost to live in Rome?
About $1,943/month for one person. Actual costs vary based on habits and neighborhood.
Is Rome safe for expats?
Rome is variable by neighborhood with a 5.3/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Rome good for remote workers?
With 140 Mbps average speeds, Rome is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Rome?
A 1-bedroom averages $1,356/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Rome
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Rome
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
5.3/10
Internet Speed
140 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,943
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Rome is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,943, a safety score of 5.3/10, and internet speeds of 140 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Rome 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.
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