For anyone considering leaving Germany behind and starting a new life in Italy, one central question quickly comes up: Is life there actually more affordable? The romantic image of a one-euro cappuccino, fresh vegetables from the weekly market, and a Mediterranean sense of living meets the reality of rising rents, high energy costs, and regional differences. A closer look at the numbers and facts reveals that, in 2025, Italy is less expensive than Germany in many areas, though it depends greatly on where and how one lives. Current Eurostat data confirm that Italy's general price level is closer to the EU average, while Germany ranks above it. For consumers, this means that everyday expenses such as dining out, groceries and services tend to be lower in Italy. At the same time, inflation in Italy dropped sharply in 2024, averaging just over one percent well below the figures of previous years. As a result, many prices have stabilized, which offers those moving to Italy a degree of financial predictability.
Housing and Energy as a Cost Trap
The biggest difference shows up in housing costs. In Germany, particularly in major cities, rents have been skyrocketing for years. A simple studio apartment in Berlin now runs around 1,200 to 1,700 euros per month. In Italy, the picture is more nuanced: Milan and Rome operate at similarly high levels, often comparable to Germany's top-tier cities. But already in Calabria, Apulia, or Sicily, three-bedroom apartments can be found for between 600 and 900 euros, a price point that residents of Berlin or Munich can only dream of. The real estate market presents a similarly mixed picture: while in Rome prices per square meter commonly exceed 3,000 euros and Venice reaches peak values of around 4,600 euros, smaller cities still offer affordable buying options. Another decisive cost factor is energy prices. This is an area where Germany holds a rather unfortunate top position. With nearly 40 cents per kilowatt-hour, German households paid the highest Electricity prices in the European Union. Italy falls at around 35 cents somewhat below that, which is still high but can nonetheless translate into three-figure annual savings.
Everyday Life, Internet, and the Big Bills
The comparison on internet costs turns out to be surprisingly favorable: Italy is among the countries with the lowest broadband prices in Europe. Fast fiber-optic connections are available there for less than 30 euros per month, often bundled with affordable mobile plans. In Germany, prices are higher and network expansion lags behind in many areas. A clear advantage for digital nomads and remote workers in Italy. Consumers in Italy also benefit when it comes to everyday spending. A cappuccino in Rome still rarely costs more than 1.50 euros, while in Berlin the price quickly climbs to three euros. Dining out, fresh fruits and vegetables, or a glass of wine in the evening are often more affordable in Italy, especially away from tourist centers. That said, it is worth noting that imported goods, electronics, and certain services can indeed be more expensive in Italy.
The Real Total Costs: Is Life in Italy Cheaper?
What do the total costs actually look like? A single person in Rome should budget around 1,300 to 1,900 euros per month, while a couple in Bologna can expect 1,700 to 2,400 euros. A family in Calabria, on the other hand, can often manage on 1,500 to 2,200 euros. These figures are well below the cost of living for comparable households in major German cities. For comparison: a single person in Berlin now pays between 1,700 and 2,400 euros for rent, utilities, electricity, groceries, and public transportation, often for an apartment that is smaller than what the same money would get in Italy. In 2025, Italy is genuinely more affordable for many expats, but not across the board. Those looking to live in Milan should not count on significant savings . However, those who settle in central or southern Italy benefit from lower rents, reduced everyday costs, and a more relaxed price level overall. For retirees, Remote workers and families who are not necessarily tied to a major city can find Italy to be a genuine source of financial relief. Germany, by contrast, remains a high-cost countryespecially when it comes to rent and energy, placing an increasing burden on many households. Tip for those moving to Italy: Private international health insurance providers such as
👉 Ottonovaoffer specialized plans for Germans living in Italy.