Cost of Living for Italy Student Visa Holders in 2025

Studying in Italy has long been an attractive option for international students because of its rich culture, world-class universities, and relatively affordable fees compared to other European nations. However, before applying for a student visa, understanding the real cost of living is crucial. In 2025, the expenses faced by students in Italy reflect both traditional costs and recent inflationary pressures across Europe. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of what international students holding an Italian student visa should realistically expect.

Public universities
Italy is known for its low tuition fees at public universities compared to other EU nations. In 2025, tuition fees for public universities average €1,000–€4,000 per year depending on the degree program and the student’s country of origin. For example, humanities degrees may cost closer to €1,000, while engineering or science programs lean toward €3,500–€4,000.

Private universities
Private institutions in Italy charge significantly higher fees. Students can expect €5,000–€20,000 annually, with prestigious schools in Milan and Rome sitting at the higher end. Programs such as business, design, or international relations often command premium fees.

Additional academic expenses

• Books and study materials: €300–€600 annually
• University administrative fees: €150–€250 annually
• Language courses (if required): €500–€1,000 for semester-based programs

Accommodation is the single largest expense for student visa holders. Costs vary drastically depending on city, location, and housing type.

University dormitories

• Monthly rent: €250–€450
• Limited availability and often allocated on a competitive basis
• Utilities are typically included

Shared apartments

• Rent per student: €350–€700 per month
• Common in major student cities like Milan, Bologna, and Florence
• Utility bills (electricity, water, heating, Wi-Fi): €100–€150 monthly

Private studio apartments

• Rent: €600–€1,000 monthly depending on the city
• Milan and Rome are the most expensive; southern cities like Naples or Bari offer lower rents
• Utilities not included in most cases

Regional variations in housing

• Milan and Rome: €700–€1,200 (central areas), €500–€700 (suburban areas)
• Bologna and Florence: €400–€800 depending on location
• Smaller cities (Padua, Perugia, Siena): €300–€600

Eating habits strongly affect monthly budgets, but the average cost for student visa holders in 2025 is fairly consistent across cities.

Groceries

• Monthly grocery budget: €150–€250
• Essentials like pasta, bread, and fresh vegetables remain affordable in Italy despite inflation
• Meat, dairy, and imported items raise costs

Dining out

• University cafeteria meal: €4–€6
• Budget restaurant meal: €12–€18
• Mid-range restaurant (three-course for two): €40–€60
• Coffee: €1.20–€1.50 at a bar, higher in tourist areas

Saving strategies
Cooking at home, buying from local markets, and using student cafeteria discounts are the main ways to reduce costs.

Public transport is highly reliable and student discounts are widely available.

Monthly student transport passes (2025 average):

• Milan: €25–€30
• Rome: €35
• Bologna: €25
• Florence: €25–€28

Other transport considerations:

• Single bus/tram/metro ticket: €1.50–€2.00
• Bike rentals: €20–€30 per month (common in Bologna and Padua)
• Occasional taxi ride: €10–€20 within city limits

Overall, students should budget €250–€350 annually for transport passes if they stay in the same city.

Health insurance is mandatory for all student visa holders.

Options available in 2025:

• Public health insurance (SSN): €150–€170 annually for international students
• Private health insurance: €250–€400 annually depending on coverage

Doctor consultations within the SSN system are mostly free or minimal (€10–€20). Private appointments can cost €50–€100.

• Mobile phone plans: €15–€25 per month with data and calls
• Home internet: €25–€35 monthly, usually shared among roommates

Many students use prepaid SIM cards or combine internet and mobile services to save costs.

Studying in Italy means immersing in culture, but entertainment costs must also be planned.

Average monthly expenses in 2025:

• Cinema ticket: €8–€12
• Gym membership: €30–€50
• Museum entry: €5–€15 (often discounted or free for students under 26)
• Weekend trips within Italy: €60–€120 depending on transport and accommodation

Students often allocate €100–€200 per month for social and leisure activities.

Here is a realistic monthly cost projection for an average international student in Italy:

• Accommodation: €350–€700
• Utilities: €100–€150
• Food and groceries: €200–€250
• Transportation: €25–€35
• Health insurance (averaged monthly): €15–€30
• Communication (mobile + internet): €25–€35
• Leisure and miscellaneous: €100–€200

Total monthly range: €815–€1,400 depending on lifestyle, housing choice, and city.

Based on the monthly averages, the total annual living cost in 2025 is:

• Low budget (smaller cities, shared housing, frugal lifestyle): €9,800–€11,500
• Moderate budget (average city, balanced lifestyle): €12,000–€14,500
• High budget (Milan/Rome, private housing, frequent travel): €15,000–€18,000

Tuition fees must be added to these totals, meaning a complete annual expense for most students ranges between €11,000–€22,000.

• Apply early for university dormitories to secure lower rent.
• Use regional travel passes for affordable weekend trips.
• Take advantage of student discounts on culture, dining, and transport.
• Cook at home and shop at local farmers’ markets.
• Explore part-time work options allowed under student visa regulations (up to 20 hours per week).

Conclusion

For international students holding an Italy student visa in 2025, the cost of living is highly influenced by city choice, accommodation type, and lifestyle preferences. While Milan and Rome represent the higher end of the budget, smaller cities provide affordable alternatives without compromising academic quality. On average, students should plan for €800–€1,400 per month, excluding tuition fees. By carefully budgeting and using available student benefits, living and studying in Italy remains not only a culturally rich experience but also a financially manageable one compared to many other Western countries.