Rent affordability guide · IT
Cost of living in Rome: salary and rent guide
Typical 1-bedroom rent in Rome ranges from €650 to €1,900/month. To live comfortably here you generally need at least €44,000/year.
Rent distribution in Rome
€650
Budget
cheapest 10%
€1,100
Median
most common
€1,900
Premium
top 10%
These figures are for a 1-bedroom apartment equivalent in Rome. Prices vary significantly by neighbourhood.
What salary do you need?
How locals spend in Rome
Renters in Rome typically spend 26–48% of their gross income on rent.
Source: ISTAT housing survey + Numbeo crowdsourced data (2023) · 2023
Rental market overview
Rome's rental market is characterised by a large informal sector, significant bureaucratic complexity, and wide price variation between tourist-facing short-term rentals and longer-term resident-oriented leases. Registered long-term rentals offer more protections and often better prices than the short-term market.
Government employment, universities, and tourism are Rome's main economic drivers. International students and expat professionals in the EU institutions create demand for quality furnished apartments, while the large local population seeks long-term registered leases.
Renter tip
Pigneto, Garbatella, and Ostiense offer Rome's best value for young professionals — edgy, genuine neighbourhoods with Metro or tram access at 30–40% below Trastevere prices.
Neighbourhood guide
Budget areas
Mid-range areas
Premium areas
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to rent in Rome?
A 1-bedroom in Rome typically costs €800–€1,800/month. Historic centre and Trastevere apartments are priciest, while outer EUR and Pigneto areas offer good value under €1,000.
What salary do you need to live in Rome?
Italian gross salaries are modest by Western European standards. To afford median Rome rent (€1,100/month) at 30%, you'd need ~€44,000/year — achievable for government workers or professionals but challenging for many service-sector roles.
Is renting in Rome complicated?
Yes — Italian rental law has multiple contract types (4+4 years, transitory, student contracts), and the informal rental market (unregistered contracts) is widespread but legally risky. EU citizens and non-EU foreigners with valid residence permits can rent freely.