RomevsJohannesburg
Overall
💰-29.4%
Rome is 29.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-28.9%
Housing is 28.9% lower
Dining
🍽️-31.4%
Restaurants 31.4% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-35.4%
Food shopping 35.4% less
Comparing the cost of living between Rome, Italy and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Rome is more affordable than Johannesburg by approximately 29.4%. 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 Rome are higher than in Johannesburg by 41%. A one-bedroom apartment in Rome's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZAR 10,000.
Dining out in Rome is notably more expensive compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Rome versus ZAR 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Rome is more affordable, with monthly passes at €35 compared to ZAR 800 in Johannesburg.
Grocery shopping in Rome is more expensive by approximately 55%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Rome can expect to spend approximately €452 per month (excluding rent), while in Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,581 monthly in Rome versus ZAR 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Johannesburg to Rome, 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 Rome to Johannesburg 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
Rome
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rome more expensive than Johannesburg?
No, Rome is approximately 29.4% cheaper than Johannesburg. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Rome compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 77% of your Johannesburg salary when living in Rome. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $38,636 in Rome for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Rome and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 55%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Rome offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Rome provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Rome if you prioritize earning potential, or Johannesburg for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Rome vs Johannesburg?
In Rome, a single person needs approximately €1,252 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,081. In Johannesburg, these figures are ZAR 12,314 for singles and ZAR 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Rome and Johannesburg in 2025 shows significant 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.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Rome
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