Living in Rome: Essential Insights for Expats in 2026

Living in Rome as an expat means living alongside ancient history while getting on with modern life. This guide covers finding a home, working in the city, and settling into daily life, with the practical details you need to get started in Rome.

Key takeaways

• Before moving to Rome, secure rental accommodation from verified landlords and sort out essential documentation such as health insurance and a tax ID for a smoother transition.
• Rome’s job market is active, particularly in tourism and technology, but you’ll need Italian to find work.
• Building a social network matters in Rome; local activities and language exchanges help you meet people and make friends.

How do you settle in Rome?

Rome carries over 1,000 years of history, and the ancient ruins across the city are a reminder of that. The neighborhoods each mix old and new in their own way. Trastevere has busy streets; Prati has more elegant avenues. Each part of the city feels different.

Securing rental accommodation from verified landlords is important when moving to Rome. Many Italians prefer to let properties directly rather than through estate agencies, which can work in an expat’s favor. Spending some time in Rome before your official move can also help you negotiate better deals with landlords and agents, and find a place that suits your needs and budget.

Rome’s climate is another draw for expats, with mild winters and warm, sunny summers. That makes for a comfortable base whether you’re visiting the ancient ruins or just walking around the city.

What documentation do expats need?

The Italian bureaucracy takes some preparation, especially for non-EU expats. One of the first steps is to secure health insurance, which is a requirement for residency applications. Obtaining a tax ID from the Italian Consulate before your arrival is also necessary. This tax ID, known as a codice fiscale, is needed for various administrative processes, including opening a bank account and signing a lease.

Proper documentation is key to a smooth transition. Non-EU citizens must obtain a residence certificate, which requires proof of a permanent address.

Italy offers tax incentives aimed at attracting foreign residents, which adds to the appeal for expats. With the right paperwork in hand, you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new life in Rome.

Safety in Rome

On safety, Rome is generally safe, with a safety index of 64. The main thing to watch for is petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams. Tourists and expats should be vigilant in busy areas like Vittorio Square and Tiburtina Station, which are hotspots for pickpockets because of the heavy foot traffic.

Safety concerns in Rome mainly involve petty crime rather than violent crime. Avoid lingering in transport stations, where most incidents occur. Areas like Esquilino have higher rates of petty crime, so stay alert. Neighborhoods such as Tor Bella Monaca, Romanina, San Basilio, and Corviale are best avoided due to safety concerns.

Learning the basics of Italian can improve your safety and your day-to-day experience in Rome. Many Italians appreciate when expats make an effort to speak Italian, and lessons help you handle daily life more smoothly. It also helps you fit in and connect with the local community.

What is the job market like in Rome?

Rome’s job market is a mix of opportunities and challenges for expats. In 2023, the employment rate in Rome reached ~62%, above the national average of ~61%. The unemployment rate has dropped to ~7%, lower than the Italian average of ~7%. That points to a relatively healthy job market, especially in the services sector, which has added 32,000 new jobs recently.

Key industries in Rome include Fashion, Tourism, Technology, and International Services. Jobs in marketing, communication, media, services, tourism, and education (TEFL) tend to have more openings for non-Italians, and these fields are generally more open to foreign candidates. That said, most jobs in Rome require a good command of Italian, so learning the language matters for your prospects.

Networking matters in Rome’s job market, where personal connections and nepotism often influence hiring. Being in Rome while you search maximizes your chances to network and find openings. Teaching English is a common job for English speakers, but fluency in Italian and a degree will improve your employment prospects.

How do you get around Rome?

Rome’s public transport is a daily part of life for expats. The city runs buses, trams, and a metro, which together cover most of the city. The metro is efficient and gets you quickly to key areas. If you’re renting, check the metro or tram coverage near a place to make sure your commute will be reliable.

A single integrated public transport ticket in Rome costs €1.50, with monthly passes available for €35, which makes getting around affordable. The URBI app is useful for expats, since it brings together various transport options and helps you pick the best way to travel.

Bike-sharing services and electric scooter rentals are also popular among residents.

How much does it cost to live in Rome?

Living in Rome comes with its own financial considerations. To live comfortably in Rome, it’s advisable to have an income of at least €2,200 per month. The minimum monthly income required is around €1,500-1,700, but a more comfortable lifestyle might require an income higher than €2,500 per month. Rent is typically the largest expense, with average prices for a one-bedroom apartment €900-1,400 (€1,200-1,500 in central areas).

Other living costs include utilities, estimated at around €150 per month, and groceries, which average €275 per month for one person. Public transport is relatively affordable, with a monthly pass costing €35. Dining out is also a common expense, with lunch at a regular restaurant costing about €16 per person and a basic meal for two averaging around €36.

Budgeting for social activities helps you build your social circle in Rome. Taking part in local life is part of living here, and setting aside money for it means you can make the most of your time in the city.

Accommodation options

Finding the right accommodation in Rome is a significant step for any expat. The city has a range of neighborhoods, each with its own character and amenities. Trastevere is known for its nightlife and costs about €24 per square meter, which makes it a favorite among younger residents. Prati is quieter, with higher rental costs, and tends to attract families looking for a calmer area.

Rental prices in Rome range from €700 to €2,500 per month, depending on the neighborhood and size. Housing is mostly apartments, and there’s a tendency toward ownership rather than renting.

Whether you’re after a lively area like Ponte Milvio or a more affordable option like Testaccio, Rome has a neighborhood to suit most preferences.

Education for expat families

For expat families, education is a top priority. Rome has 28+ international schools covering different needs, with curricula such as British, American, and International Baccalaureate. Expats favor these schools because they minimize disruption to their children’s learning and keep the educational transition smooth. Smaller class sizes in private international schools allow for more personalized attention.

Beyond international schools, Rome has bilingual and multilingual nurseries, which makes it easier for families to find early education options. Private schools offer similar standards to public schools but may follow specific philosophies, such as religious or alternative methods. Inclusive education means children with disabilities receive support within regular educational settings.

For higher education, notable universities in Rome include Sapienza, Tor Vergata, and Roma Tre. These institutions offer a wide range of English-taught programs, particularly master’s courses in science, economics, and engineering. Sapienza University of Rome is one of the largest universities in Europe, with plenty of options for academic study.

How does healthcare work in Rome?

Italy’s healthcare system is universal, providing comprehensive coverage for all citizens and legal residents. Tax-funded public healthcare systems mean everyone has access to necessary medical care. Expats eligible for public healthcare must register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) through the local health authority, which requires documentation such as proof of address and a tax number.

The public healthcare system is solid, but many expats also take out private health insurance for extra coverage. Private insurance offers quicker access to treatments and a broader range of services. Cigna is one recommended international health insurance provider for expats, and there are other options as well.

Apps like MedinAction also give quick access to English-speaking doctors, so language barriers don’t get in the way of medical care.

Making friends and social life

Building a social network is important for settling in as an expat. Expat and language exchange events are a good way to meet others in the same situation. Hobbies and clubs help you meet people with shared interests. Language exchange programs like Tandem or Conversation Exchange are good for learning Italian and meeting locals.

Rome’s international communities often run Italian lessons and host meetups, which are useful for expanding your network. Once you’ve met new people, keeping in touch is what turns acquaintances into lasting friendships.

Taking part in local life and social activities will make your daily routine more enjoyable and help you feel more at home in Rome.

Enjoying Rome's culture and lifestyle

Culture and lifestyle are a big part of life in Rome. The city hosts cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the ‘Festival della Cucina Romana,’ which showcases local cuisine. The ‘Wicca Festival’ centers on ancient traditions, and the ‘Death Over Rome festival’ combines music and performance art. Together they reflect the range of the city’s cultural scene.

Rome’s nightlife is busy too, with plenty of events and venues for different tastes. The ‘Testaccio Food Village’ is a popular event that highlights Rome’s food scene, with a range of options and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting the ancient ruins or out for the night, Rome has plenty going on.

Learning Italian is key to getting the most out of life in Rome. Many Italians appreciate when expats make an effort to speak Italian, and lessons will improve your experience. Getting into the local culture helps you feel more connected to the city and the people in it.

Commuting and traffic challenges

Commuting in Rome can be a challenge given the city’s heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. The narrow streets and the volume of cars and scooters make it worse, and jams are frequent. Living further from the center can complicate the commute, since the daily journey gets longer and more stressful. Even the outskirts see congestion, particularly at peak hours.

Rome’s public transport includes three metro lines, buses, and trams, though these can face delays and reliability issues. To use the system efficiently, check real-time arrival information and plan your route around it. Apps like Moovit provide real-time updates and directions across transit options, which makes the commute easier.

When house hunting, factor in the commute to work and schools, especially if you’ll rely heavily on public transport. A single public transport ticket costs €1.50, with monthly and annual passes that offer savings. With some planning and flexibility, you can get around Rome’s streets and transport system effectively.

Banking and financial services

Setting up banking in Rome is fairly straightforward, though it varies with your residency status. Foreigners can open a bank account in Italy, with different procedures for residents and non-residents. Residents can open traditional accounts at various banks, with documentation such as a passport, tax code, and proof of address. Non-residents may prefer digital banks like Revolut or N26, which simplify the setup.

Banking in Italy can involve fixed charges, transaction costs, and legally mandated stamp duties. For international money transfers, expats can use services like Wise or traditional bank transfers, each with different fees.

Many local shops and markets prefer cash, so it helps to carry coins for small purchases. Knowing these details will help you manage your finances in Rome.

Shopping in Rome

Shopping is part of daily life in Rome. Locals tend to visit smaller shops and markets for groceries and everyday needs. Bigger shopping trips are often done out of town, but local shopping is more frequent, which reflects the Italian preference for fresh produce. Many small supermarkets in Rome have good deli counters with prepared food, and some offer delivery, which suits busy residents.

Kitchens in Rome are typically small, so people store only a few days’ worth of supplies at a time. That makes frequent trips to the local market or supermarket common. Getting to know your neighborhood shops and markets will help you manage daily needs and settle into local life.

Exploring beyond Rome

Rome’s central location in Italy makes it a good base for exploring the rest of the country and Europe. Regular trains connect Rome to cities like Florence and Naples, while the Eurostar links the city to Milan. Flights from Fiumicino and Ciampino airports give easy access to other European capitals, which widens your travel options.

There’s plenty to see beyond Rome across Italy and Europe. The Circumvesuviana train, for example, connects Naples Centrale to destinations like Sorrento and Pompeii within half an hour. These transport links let you reach nearby towns and cities, which adds to your time as an expat and gives you a fuller sense of Italian history and culture.

Typical day in Rome

A typical day in Rome mixes routine with the things that make the city what it is. Many Romans start the day with a coffee and cornetto at a local café. For lunch, locals often go for light meals such as panini and salad, which are quick and good. The pace can be leisurely, which leaves room to take each moment as it comes and enjoy the city.

After work, a popular option is dinner at a rooftop terrace restaurant with views over the city. Evenings in Rome bring cultural events, time with friends, or a relaxed walk past the illuminated ancient ruins. That mix of ordinary routine and historic surroundings is a big part of living in Rome.

Summary

Living in Rome as an expat brings together history, culture, and new experiences. From finding the right accommodation and using public transport to working and making friends, each part of life in Rome has its own challenges and rewards. The city’s cultural heritage, active social scene, and surroundings make it a good place to call home.

If you’re considering moving to Rome, this guide gives you a broad overview to help you prepare and settle into your new life in the city. Take it as it comes, get involved in local life, and make use of what Rome has to offer.

Sources

• ISTAT (Italian National Institute of Statistics) - Employment and population data
• ATAC Roma - Public transport fares and schedules
• Numbeo - Cost of living comparisons 2026
• Global Safety Index - City safety rankings
• Italian Ministry of Interior - Visa and residence requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What documentation do I need as a non-EU expat moving to Rome?

As a non-EU expat moving to Rome, you'll need health insurance, a tax ID from the Italian Consulate, and a residence certificate that shows your permanent address. Getting these sorted will help make your transition smoother.

How safe is Rome compared to other European capitals?

Rome is relatively safe compared to other European capitals, ranking 29th globally; even so, watch out for petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded areas. Stay alert and you'll be fine.

What are the best neighborhoods in Rome for expats?

Trastevere is good for nightlife, Prati is quieter, and Testaccio is better for those after more affordable rents. Each of these neighborhoods has its own character, which makes them popular choices for expats.

How can I find job opportunities in Rome as an expat?

To find job opportunities in Rome as an expat, focus on key industries like fashion, tourism, technology, and education. Learning Italian will improve your chances of landing a job.

What is the cost of living in Rome for a single person?

Living in Rome as a single person will typically cost you about €2,100 a month, with rent being your biggest expense.