Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the cost of living in Milano, Italia in 2026. This article is designed for expats considering a move to this beautiful city, providing you with essential information about housing costs, daily expenses, healthcare, internet and coworking, tax implications, visa options, safety, and a monthly budget breakdown.
Introduction
Milano, the fashion capital of the world, offers an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and modernity. If you're considering relocating to this vibrant city, this guide will help you navigate the financial aspects of your new life. See full Milano profile
Housing Costs
Renting an apartment in Milano can be expensive, but there are options available for different budgets. Expect to pay around €1700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment centrally located, or €1300 outside the city center.
Daily Expenses (food/transport/utilities)
Groceries in Milano are moderately priced, with an average monthly cost of €250. A restaurant meal will set you back around €15, while a cup of coffee and a beer are approximately €2.3 and €4.5 respectively. Transport costs are estimated at €60 per month, including public transit and occasional taxis.
Internet & Coworking
High-speed internet is widely available in Milano, with average speeds of 80 Mbps. A monthly subscription for coworking spaces starts from around €120.
Healthcare & Insurance
Italy's healthcare system is publicly funded and offers high-quality services. Expats are required to have health insurance, which can be obtained through the National Health Service (SSN) or private providers. Learn more about healthcare in Italy
Internet & Coworking
High-speed internet is widely available in Milano, with average speeds of 80 Mbps. A monthly subscription for coworking spaces starts from around €120.
Tax Implications
Milano, Italy's financial hub, imposes taxes on both residents and non-residents. Understanding the tax system is crucial for expats planning to relocate.
Income Tax
Italy has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 23% to 43%. The exact rate depends on your annual income. For instance, if you earn between €26,000 and €55,000 per year, the tax rate is 23%. If your income exceeds €75,000, the rate increases to 43%. See full Milano profile
Special Regime: Impatriati 70% exemp
Expats who work for a foreign company in Italy can benefit from the Impatriati 70% exemption. Under this regime, they only pay income tax on 30% of their earnings. However, this applies only to specific occupations and requires meeting certain conditions.
VAT (IVA) and Other Taxes
In addition to income tax, residents also need to pay Value Added Tax (IVA), which ranges from 4% to 22%. Various other taxes may apply depending on your circumstances, such as property tax, inheritance tax, and capital gains tax.
Visa Options
Italy offers several visa options for expats, including the Digital Nomad Visa, valid for one year. This visa is designed for remote workers who want to live and work in Italy without being employed by a local company. Compare with other digital nomad destinations
Safety & Quality of Life
Milano ranks 70 out of 100 in safety, which is relatively average compared to other European cities. However, LGBTQ+ safety is excellent, scoring an impressive 80 out of 100. The city's vibrant cultural scene, high-quality healthcare system, and Mediterranean climate contribute to its overall quality of life.
Monthly Budget Breakdown (Table)
Here's a breakdown of the average monthly expenses for an expat living in Milano:
| Expense Category | Cost per month |
| Rent 1BR center | €1,700 |
| Rent 1BR outside | €1,300 |
| Groceries | €250 |
| Restaurant meal | €15 |
| Coffee | €2.3 |
| Beer | €4.5 |
| Gym | €60 |
| Transport | €60 |
| Internet | N/A (included in housing cost) |
| Coworking | €120 |
| Total | €2,337.3 |
Is Milano Worth It?
Whether Milano is worth it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Its high-quality healthcare system, vibrant culture, and excellent LGBTQ+ safety make it an attractive destination for many expats. However, the cost of living can be relatively high, particularly when it comes to housing costs.