Cost of Living: Lyon vs Rome (2026)
France vs Italy — relocation comparison
For the Kids
Schools, pediatric care, and whether your children can actually enroll
Sources: OECD PISA 2022 · Wikipedia · Numbeo · official health systems
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 28% cheaper in Lyon ($972/mo vs $1355/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Rome (30°C vs 26°C).
- •Rome is safer by homicide rate (0.5 vs 1.6 per 100k).
Lyon vs Rome — Common Questions
Is Lyon cheaper than Rome?▾
Lyon is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $972/month in Lyon vs $1355/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Lyon or Rome?▾
Rome is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Lyon has a rate of 1.56 per 100,000 and Rome has 0.55 per 100,000.
Should I move to Lyon or Rome?▾
Lyon edges ahead 75 to 69. Rome isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. 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 Lyon or Rome?▾
Lyon: France Talent Passport (complex process, Up to 4 years). Rome: Italy Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Lyon or Rome?▾
Rome is warmer in summer (30°C vs 26°C). Lyon has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Don't agree? Take the quiz and see what fits you.
Factor in your salary, family size, weather preferences, and deal-breakers.
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