Cost of Living: Bilbao vs Bologna (2026)
Spain vs Italy — relocation comparison
The Short Version
- •Rent is 10% cheaper in Bologna ($1130/mo vs $1259/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Bologna (31°C vs 25°C).
- •Bilbao scores higher on democracy (8.1 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Bilbao (38/100 vs 29/100).
Bilbao vs Bologna — Common Questions
Is Bilbao cheaper than Bologna?▾
Bologna is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1130/month in Bologna vs $1259/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bilbao or Bologna?▾
Bologna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bilbao has a rate of 0.69 per 100,000 and Bologna has 0.57 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bilbao or Bologna?▾
Bilbao and Bologna are almost suspiciously well-matched. Flip a coin. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Which has better weather, Bilbao or Bologna?▾
Bologna is warmer in summer (31°C vs 25°C). Bilbao has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Bilbao or Bologna without speaking the local language?▾
Bilbao is easier for street-level English (38/100) than Bologna (29/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
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