The Cost of Living in Rome: A Detailed Breakdown

Rome, the capital city of Italy, is an extraordinary destination known for its rich history, ancient architecture, art, and, of course, delicious food. The city is home to some of the finest landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican City, the Pantheon, and many others. However, before planning a trip or moving to Rome, it’s essential to understand the cost of living. In this blog post, we will dive into the details of the expenses associated with living in Rome.

Housing Costs in Rome

Housing is one of the major expenses of living in any city, and Rome is no exception. The median monthly rental for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €950 ($1,150), while outside the city, it drops to around €750 ($905) per month. Moreover, if you’re looking for a bigger apartment, you might have to spend around €1,800 ($2,180) per month in the city center and €1,300 ($1,570) outside the city. If you’re planning to purchase a property, the median cost per square meter in the city center is around €4,500 ($5,440), while outside the city, it drops to around €2,200 ($2,660).

Utilities Costs in Rome

Apart from rent or mortgage payments, utilities are another significant expense to consider. The average cost of electricity, heating, water, and garbage for a 85m2 apartment in Rome is around €140 ($170) per month. However, this may fluctuate depending on your usage and the season. Internet costs are around €30 ($36) per month, while the mobile phone charges are around €15 ($18) per month.

Transportation Costs in Rome

Rome’s public transportation is efficient and affordable, making it a top choice for many residents. The basic ticket for a single journey is around €1.50 ($1.80), and a monthly pass for unlimited travel is around €35 ($42). The cost of a taxi flag fall is €3.30 ($4), and €1.10 ($1.30) for each additional kilometer. If you’re planning to purchase a car, keep in mind that the average cost of gasoline is around €1.50 ($1.80) per liter.

Grocery Costs in Rome

Food is an essential expense that everyone needs to consider while planning their budget. The cost of groceries in Rome is reasonable when compared to other European cities. A loaf of bread costs around €1 ($1.20), a liter of milk around €1 ($1.20), and a dozen eggs around €2.50 ($3). The cost of fruits and vegetables varies depending on the season and where you purchase them. Overall, the average weekly grocery bill for two people is around €75-100 ($90-$120).

Dining Out Costs in Rome

Dining out in Rome is a delightful experience with numerous restaurants to choose from. However, eating out regularly can add up to your monthly budget. The average cost of a three-course meal for two people in a mid-range restaurant is around €60 ($72). If you’re looking for a cheaper option, a quick bite from a street vendor can cost around €5-10 ($6-$12).

Entertainment Costs in Rome

Apart from the basic expenses, people wish to explore the city and take part in various entertainment activities. Rome has plenty of free things to do, such as exploring the Vatican City or picnicking in Villa Borghese Gardens. However, if you’re planning to visit museums or attend cultural events, admission fees can be around €15-20 ($18-$24) per person. If you’re planning to attend a movie or a play, the average cost of a ticket is around €10-12 ($12-$14).

Conclusion

Living in a city like Rome requires a well-planned budget to ensure you can enjoy everything the city has to offer without breaking the bank. The cost of living in Rome can vary depending on several factors, such as the area you choose to live in, lifestyle choices, and entertainment options. The average cost of living in Rome for a single person is around €1,200-1,500 ($1,450-$1,815) per month, while for a couple is around €2,500-3,000 ($3,025-$3,635) per month. We hope this detailed breakdown of expenses provides you with the necessary information you need to plan your budget for living in Rome.

An Insider’s Guide to Rome: Exploring Beyond the Common Tourist Spots

Rome, the Eternal City, is a must-visit destination for anyone touring Italy. Steeped in history, culture, and art, tourists flock to this city to see the famous Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican City. However, there is much more to Rome than just these well-known tourist attractions. As an insider, I will take you on a journey of discovery beyond the common tourist spots, exploring hidden gems and unique experiences that you won’t find in guidebooks.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems in Rome

Skip the usual tourist spots and take a stroll through the Pigneto area, which exudes a bohemian atmosphere with its multicultural vibes, street art, and vintage shops. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, visit Villa Celimontana, a garden full of ancient statues, small lakes, and fountains where locals go to relax. For a unique experience, head to the historic ghetto area where you can sample some of the best Roman-Jewish cuisine.

Dining Spots: Savoring Authentic Roman Cuisine

Rome is well-known for its culinary treats. While everyone talks about pizza and pasta, there is much more to try in this city. Soak in the lively atmosphere at Campo de’ Fiori, a popular square where you’ll find some of the city’s best street food vendors selling fried artichokes, suppli (a type of fried rice ball), and porchetta sandwiches. Head to Testaccio, a neighborhood well-known for its authentic Roman cuisine, and try some classic dishes like coda alla vaccinara (braised oxtail) or trippa alla romana (tripe in tomato sauce).

Cultural Experiences: Soaking in the City’s Traditions and Customs

Immerse yourself in the local traditions by attending an opera production at the stunning Teatro dell’Opera di Roma. For an unforgettable evening, visit Piazza Navona at night, where street performers put on spectacular shows. If you want to experience a local custom, join aperitivo hour, where you can sip on a refreshing cocktail while tasting some of the city’s best bites.

Local History: Discovering Fascinating Stories of the City’s Past

Rome has a rich history, and everywhere you go, there are stories to uncover. Explore the underground catacombs, where early Christians were buried, and learn about their rituals and traditions. For a unique experience, visit the Domus Aurea, a villa built by the infamous Emperor Nero, which lay undiscovered for centuries until recently. You can now take a guided tour through this ancient palace and marvel at the murals and frescoes that decorated the walls.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiencing Rome Like a Local

Experience the best view of Rome from the top of the Gianicolo hill, a scenic spot known to be a favorite of the famous Roman actor, Marcello Mastroianni. Take a cycling tour through the Appian Way, the road where the Roman Empire began, and explore the ancient ruins and monuments as you ride. You can also take a dip in the Tiber River, something the locals love to do in the summertime.

Conclusion

There’s so much more to Rome than the famous tourist attractions. As an insider, I’ve shown you some of the city’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems. From exploring the local attractions to savoring authentic Roman cuisine, experiencing the city’s traditions and customs, uncovering fascinating stories of the past to discovering unique off-the-beaten-path suggestions, experiencing Rome like a local has never been so easy. So, get ready to fall in love with the Eternal City like never before.