Cost Comparison 2025

RomevsParis

Italy
France

Overall

💰

+25.0%

Rome is 25.0%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+55.6%

Housing is 55.6% higher

Dining

🍽️

+21.4%

Restaurants 21.4% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+38.5%

Food shopping 38.5% more

Comparing the cost of living between Rome, Italy and Paris, France reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Rome is more expensive than Paris by approximately 25.0%. 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 Rome are lower than in Paris by 36%. A one-bedroom apartment in Rome's city center costs around €1,100, while the same in Paris is approximately €1,800.

Dining out in Rome offers significant savings compared to Paris. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €15 in Rome versus €15 in Paris.

Public transportation in Rome is more affordable, with monthly passes at €35 compared to €86 in Paris.

Grocery shopping in Rome is more affordable by approximately 28%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower 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 Paris, the same lifestyle would cost around €558. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,581 monthly in Rome versus €1,952 in Paris. 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
Rome, Italy
Paris, France

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
€1,100
€1,800
1BR Outside Center
€800
€1,200
3BR City Center
€2,200
€4,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
€15
€15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
€65
€70
Cappuccino
€2
€4
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
€5
€7

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
€2
€1
Bread (500g)
€2
€2
Eggs (12)
€3
€4
Cheese (1kg)
€13
€18

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
€2
€2
Monthly Pass
€35
€86
Taxi Start
€5
€5
Gasoline (1L)
€2
€2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
€140
€170
Internet (60 Mbps)
€30
€30
Mobile Minute
€0
€0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Rome to Paris, 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 Paris 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

Rome

Cost of Living Index68
Rent Index45
Purchasing Power Index75

Paris

Cost of Living Index85
Rent Index70
Purchasing Power Index85

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rome more expensive than Paris?

Yes, Rome is approximately 25.0% more expensive than Paris overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.3x of your Paris salary when living in Rome. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Paris, you'd need about $62,500 in Rome for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Rome and Paris?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 36%, 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?

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

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

In Rome, a single person needs approximately €1,252 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €3,081. In Paris, these figures are €1,758 for singles and €4,452 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Rome and Paris 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.

Need to calculate salary equivalence?

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers