Cost of Living: Bologna vs London (2026)
Italy vs United Kingdom — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 62% cheaper in Bologna ($1130/mo vs $3000/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are dramatically warmer in Bologna (31°C vs 22°C).
- •Bologna is safer by homicide rate (0.6 vs 1.1 per 100k).
- •London scores higher on democracy (8.3 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in London (100/100 vs 29/100).
Bologna vs London — Common Questions
Is Bologna cheaper than London?▾
Bologna is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1130/month in Bologna vs $3000/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bologna or London?▾
Bologna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bologna has a rate of 0.57 per 100,000 and London has 1.07 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bologna or London?▾
Bologna scores 68 to London's 58 on livability — the gap is real. London has its charms, but the numbers favor Bologna. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Bologna or London?▾
Bologna: no specific remote work visa. London: UK Skilled Worker Visa (complex process, Up to 5 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Bologna or London?▾
Bologna is warmer in summer (31°C vs 22°C). London 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 Bologna or London without speaking the local language?▾
London is easier for street-level English (100/100) 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.
Factor in your salary, family size, weather preferences, and deal-breakers.
Related comparisons