Cost Comparison 2025

AmsterdamvsRome

Netherlands
Italy

Overall

πŸ’°

-15.0%

Amsterdam is 15.0%cheaper

Rent

🏠

-40.0%

Housing is 40.0% lower

Dining

🍽️

-12.5%

Restaurants 12.5% cheaper

Groceries

πŸ›’

-7.1%

Food shopping 7.1% less

Comparing the cost of living between Amsterdam, Netherlands and Rome, Italy reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Amsterdam is more affordable than Rome by approximately 15.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.

Key Cost Differences

Housing costs in Amsterdam are higher than in Rome by 67%. A one-bedroom apartment in Amsterdam's city center costs around €1,900, while the same in Rome is approximately €1,100.

Dining out in Amsterdam is notably more expensive compared to Rome. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Amsterdam versus €15 in Rome.

Public transportation in Amsterdam is more expensive, with monthly passes at €100 compared to €35 in Rome.

Purchasing power in Amsterdam is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Rome.

Monthly Budget Breakdown

When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Amsterdam can expect to spend approximately €586 per month (excluding rent), while in Rome, the same lifestyle would cost around €452. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €2,050 monthly in Amsterdam versus €1,581 in Rome. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.

Detailed Cost Comparison

Item
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Rome, Italy

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
€1,900
€1,100
1BR Outside Center
€1,500
€800
3BR City Center
€3,500
€2,200

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
€15
€15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
€80
€65
Cappuccino
€4
€2
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
€5
€5

πŸ›’ Groceries

Milk (1L)
€1
€2
Bread (500g)
€2
€2
Eggs (12)
€3
€3
Cheese (1kg)
€13
€13

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
€3
€2
Monthly Pass
€100
€35
Taxi Start
€4
€5
Gasoline (1L)
€2
€2

πŸ’‘ Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85mΒ²)
€180
€140
Internet (60 Mbps)
€40
€30
Mobile Minute
€0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Rome to Amsterdam, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Amsterdam to Rome requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.

Quality of Life Indices

Amsterdam

Cost of Living Index80
Rent Index75
Purchasing Power Index90

Rome

Cost of Living Index68
Rent Index45
Purchasing Power Index75

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amsterdam more expensive than Rome?

No, Amsterdam is approximately 15.0% cheaper than Rome. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.

How much salary do I need in Amsterdam compared to Rome?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 87% of your Rome salary when living in Amsterdam. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Rome, you'd need about $43,478 in Amsterdam for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Amsterdam and Rome?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 67%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Amsterdam offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Amsterdam provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Amsterdam if you prioritize earning potential, or Rome for affordability.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Amsterdam vs Rome?

In Amsterdam, a single person needs approximately €2,086 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €4,550. In Rome, these figures are €1,252 for singles and €3,081 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Amsterdam and Rome in 2025 shows notable differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

Find out how much you need to earn in Rome to maintain your lifestyle from Amsterdam

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 β€’ Data sourced from multiple providers