🇮🇹 Cost of Living in Rome - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: March 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$62,014 (2024)
Inflation Rate1.0% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$3,398 (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend22.3% (2024)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.1% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Rome is a moderately expensive city to live in or visit, with a daily budget ranging from $60-120 USD per day for a backpacker to $250-400 USD per day for a comfortable stay.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$120-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$250-400 USD
CurrencyEUR
Tipping Customexpected (5-10%)
How Expensive Is Rome?
Rome, the capital city of Italy, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, art, architecture, and cuisine. Compared to other major European cities, Rome is moderately expensive, with prices ranging from affordable to very expensive, depending on the location, quality, and type of service. The cost of living in Rome is slightly higher than in other Italian cities, but it is still relatively affordable compared to cities like Paris or London. The city's historic center is particularly pricey, with high-end boutiques, restaurants, and hotels catering to tourists and wealthy locals. However, there are also many affordable options available, especially in the outer neighborhoods and suburbs.
The cost of living in Rome can vary greatly depending on lifestyle and personal choices. For example, eating at a local trattoria or purchasing food at a market can be relatively affordable, while dining at a high-end restaurant or shopping at a luxury boutique can be very expensive. Additionally, the cost of accommodation in Rome can range from affordable to very expensive, depending on the location, quality, and type of accommodation. Overall, Rome is a great destination for travelers who want to experience the best of Italy without breaking the bank, but it's essential to plan carefully and research affordable options to make the most of your trip.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$20-40
Shared rooms, basic amenities
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
3-star hotel, private room, breakfast included
Luxury/Resort
$200-500
5-star hotel, high-end amenities, city center location
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$800-1,800
City center: $1,200-1,800, outside: $800-1,200
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$5-10
Casual Restaurant
$15-25
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$30-50
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$5-7
Coffee
$2-4
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1.50-2.50
Taxi (per km)
$2-3
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
600
1,000
1,500
Food
300
500
800
Transport
100
150
200
Utilities
100
150
200
Entertainment
200
300
500
Total
1,300
2,100
3,200
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel outside the city center to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local trattorias or osterias, which offer affordable and delicious food.
Purchase a Roma Pass, which grants free entry to several attractions and discounts on public transportation.
Walk or bike whenever possible, as Rome is a relatively small city and many attractions are within walking distance.
Shop at local markets or supermarkets for groceries and souvenirs, rather than at touristy shops or restaurants.
Take advantage of happy hour (aperitivo) at bars and cafes, which often includes free snacks and drinks with the purchase of a drink.