5 Cheapest Italian Cities To Live In As a Student

#1 Catania

Catania is a Sicilian coastal city located at the base of volcano Mount Etna, looking out at the Ionian Sea. Catania’s stunning Baroque architecture, such as the UNESCO protected Piazza del Duomo, contrast with its lively nightlife and bustling food markets.

The city has a large student population thanks to the University of Catania, which dates back to 1434 and is Sicily’s oldest university.

Here’s how living costs in Catania compare to the national average:

Though you may not save as much on utilities or transport, the cost of rent in Catania is significantly cheaper than in the rest of Italy – which should make a big difference to your overall living costs.

#2 Palermo

Palermo is Sicily’s capital, and one of the largest cultural and economic hubs in the Mediterranean.

The city is surrounded by mountains and offers excellent views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, especially from the near 2,000 ft tall Mount Pellegrino which was described by famed German poet and novelist Goethe as one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the world.

Its largest higher education institution is the University of Palermo, which educates almost 50,000 students across 12 faculties.

Here’s how living costs in Palermo compare to the national average:

Living in Palermo offers considerable savings across the board. You can expect lower prices not just for rent, but utilities and meals out too!

#3 Naples

Naples is one of the largest and most populous cities in Italy, with several universities and a growing student population.

It is also one of the oldest inhabited urban areas on Earth, populated as early as the Neolithic period. You’ll find evidence of its long and fascinating history everywhere, from the Palace of Caserta to the Roman ruins of Pompeii.

Here’s how living costs in Naples compare to the national average:

As you can see, savings in rent may be more modest if you choose to live in Naples city centre, but you can still find cheaper options by looking further out.

#4 Cagliari

Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia. It offers a combination of culture and natural beauty, with stunning views along the 8-mile coastline of Poetto Beach, as well as monuments dating back to the 13th century in its ancient Castello district.

Here’s how the cost of living in Cagliari compares to the national average:

Living expenses in Cagliari hover just below the national average. Choose accommodation outside the city centre and budget carefully for transport and meals out to save pennies!

#5 Rimini

Located in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, Rimini is famed for its bustling beachfronts and waterside nightclubs. Its long hot summers and white sandy beaches make it the perfect choice of location for sun worshippers.

A visit to San Marino, one of Europe’s smallest independent republics, also makes a great day trip from Rimini. You can reach this micro-state in a one-hour bus ride and visit most of its major attractions in one day!

The University of Bolonga, Italy’s top-ranked university (according to the Times Higher Education 2023 rankings), has a campus in Rimini. The campus is relatively small, with just 6,000 students, and offers 20 degree programmes – over half of which are postgraduate courses.

Costs in Rimini may not be far below the national average, but you’ll still be able to manage on a slimmer budget with careful planning.