Cost of Living: Rome vs Florence (2026)
Italy vs Italy — relocation comparison
1BR centre
At each city's local median pay
Open incentive regimes for newcomers
- VAT-free under €85k
- 26% social
- €1000/yr accountant
- VAT-free under €85k
- 26% social
- €1000/yr accountant
Sourced from Numbeo · Updated April 2026
Verdict delivered. Your move.
Sources: Numbeo · UNODC · Ookla · WHO · EIU · Gallup · World Bank · Freedom House · Updated April 2026
Sun
How much sky you actually get
Sun clocks out before 5pm in both cities come December. Plan accordingly.
Source: WeatherSpark (clear-sky share of daytime hours)
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · official immigration portals
Reproductive Rights
Because your body shouldn't need a visa too
On request up to 90 days. 7-day waiting period. High rates of conscientious objection limit practical access.
On request up to 90 days. 7-day waiting period. High rates of conscientious objection limit practical access.
Source: Center for Reproductive Rights
LGBTQ+ Rights
Can you hold hands without doing a risk assessment first
Rome vs Florence — Common Questions
Is Rome cheaper than Florence?▾
Florence is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1316/month there vs $1355/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Rome or Florence?▾
Florence is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Rome has a rate of 0.55 per 100,000 and Florence has 0.55 per 100,000.
Should I move to Rome or Florence?▾
Rome and Florence 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.
Is it easier to get residency in Rome or Florence?▾
Rome: Italy Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable)). Florence: Italy Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 1 year (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
What's the cost of rent in Rome vs Florence?▾
A 1-bedroom in the centre: $1316/month in Florence, $1355/month in Rome (Numbeo). That's 3% cheaper rent in Florence.
Plot twist: other matchups exist
Maybe the real city was the comparisons we made along the way.
Let the algorithm judge you
2 min quiz — surprisingly accurate
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