Studying in Italy is affordable and enriching for international students, with monthly living costs ranging from €900 to €1,200. This guide covers expenses like housing, food, transport, and health insurance, along with money-saving tips to help you plan your budget and enjoy student life in Italy.
How much does it cost to live in Italy as a student?
If you are heading to Italy for your studies, it’s smart to get a clear idea of how much life there is really going to cost you. Sure, tuition is pretty affordable especially at public universities while living cost average (€9,000–€1,200/month) but your monthly spend depends a lot on where you live, how you live, and what kind of housing you choose.
Overview: Average Monthly Living Expenses in Italy
Living in Italy doesn’t cost the same for everyone; it really depends on the city you’re in, how you manage your expenses, and the kind of place you’re staying. Big names like Milan, Rome, and Florence? They’re amazing, but yeah, they’ll eat into your budget. If you’re thinking of places like Bologna, Padua, or Pisa, they’re usually way more manageable.
Most international students end up spending somewhere around €900 to €1,200 a month. That covers your basics -rent, food, transport, some bills, and just regular stuff. It could be less or more, depending on how you live. Let’s break it down so it’s easier to picture where your money’s going.
Estimated monthly expenses for international students in Italy:
| Category | Cost Range (EUR/Month) | Description |
| Accommodation | €300–€700 | Varies by city and type of housing |
| Food | €150–€300 | Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out |
| Transportation | €25–€50 | Student discounts available for public transit |
| Health Insurance | €40–€70 | Mandatory for non-EU students |
| Internet/Utilities | €50–€100 | Shared expenses for Wi-Fi, electricity, etc. |
| Entertainment/Miscellaneous | €100–€200 | Includes leisure, shopping, and activities |
| Total | €700–€1,200 | Average monthly expenses |
Accommodation Costs in Italy for Students:
Housing is the biggest component of your student budget in Italy. Here’s what to expect:
| Accommodation Type | Average Monthly Cost (EUR) | Details |
| University Dormitories | €250–€400 | Affordable, but limited availability |
| Shared Apartments | €300–€600 | Cost-effective, shared with roommates |
| Private Rentals | €500–€900 | More expensive, offers privacy |
Tips for Finding Affordable Housing:
- Apply early for university dormitories.
- Use trusted platforms.
- Join student Facebook groups for housing opportunities.
Food & Grocery Costs
Italy is famous for its food, and you can eat well on a budget.
- Groceries: Budget €150–€200/month by shopping at Lidl, Coop, Carrefour, or Esselunga.
- Eating Out: A restaurant meal costs €12–€20. Pizza, pasta, or snacks range between €5–€8.
- Coffee: An espresso costs only €1–€2 at local cafés. Embrace Italian coffee culture!
Transportation Costs in Italy
Public transport in Italy is reliable and affordable for students.
| Mode of Transport | Average Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Public Transport (Bus, Metro, Tram) | €25–€50 |
| Bicycle Rental | €10–€20 |
| Train (Intercity) | €20–€50 per trip |
If you’re studying in cities like Rome or Milan, investing in a student travel card is a great way to save money on transportation.
Health Insurance Costs for International Students
International students need to have health insurance during their stay.
- Non-EU Students:
- Public coverage: ~€150/year (SSN)
- Private plans: €40–€70/month
- EU Students:
- Use your EHIC card to access Italian healthcare services at no or reduced cost.
Pro Tip: Apply for regional SSN health registration if staying more than 12 months.
Utilities, Internet, & Study Costs
Internet & Utilities:
- Average cost is €50–€100/month, typically shared among roommates.
- Includes electricity, water, gas, and Wi-Fi.
Study Materials:
- Budget €20–€50/month for textbooks and stationery.
- Most universities offer free digital library access.
Social Life, Leisure & Entertainment
Italy offers rich cultural experiences on a budget.
- Cinema Tickets: €5–€10 (with student ID)
- Museum Entry: Free or discounted with ISIC or university card
- Train Travel: Weekend getaways to Venice, Naples, or Florence for €20–€50
Cost-Saving Tips for Students in Italy
- Student Scholarships: Italian public universities offer scholarships for international students.
- Student Document: From transport to museums, always carry your student ID to avail of discounts.
- Part-Time Jobs: Students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning around €8–€12 per hour.
- Cooking at Home: Preparing meals saves money compared to frequent dining out.
- Public Transport: When traveling of other cities, opt for budget-friendly options like BlaBlaCar or discounted train tickets.
Why Budgeting for Italy Is Worth It?
Studying in Italy offers far more than academic growth. With efficient budgeting, international students can enjoy:
- Low tuition fees at public universities
- A safe and student-friendly lifestyle
- Access to Europe through Italy’s central location
- A rich blend of culture, cuisine, and global networking
Plan your study abroad journey in Italy today—budget smart, live fully, and study globally!
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the average cost of living in Italy for international students?
International students in Italy typically spend between €700 and €1,200 per month, depending on the city, accommodation, and lifestyle.
2. Is Italy affordable for students compared to other European countries?
Yes, Italy offers affordable education and living costs, especially in smaller cities like Padua or Pisa, compared to Western Europe.
3. What are the main expenses for students in Italy?
The main expenses include accommodation (€300–€700/month), food (€150–€300), transport (€25–€50), and health insurance (€40–€70).
4. How much does student accommodation cost in Italy?
Accommodation costs range from €250 for university dorms to €900 for private rentals, depending on the location and type.
5. Are there student discounts in Italy for transport and entertainment?
Yes, students enjoy discounted public transport, museum entries, cinema tickets, and travel passes across most Italian cities.
6. Can international students work while studying in Italy?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays.
7. How much should I budget for food in Italy as a student?
Students should budget around €150–€300/month for food, with savings possible by cooking at home and shopping at discount supermarkets.
8. Do international students need health insurance in Italy?
Yes, non-EU students must have private or public health insurance, costing around €150/year or €40–€70/month.