Is Rome expensive?

Yes, Rome is moderately expensive, but surprisingly, your money goes further here than in many other Italian cities. While it's the capital, its cost multiplier of 0.96x means everyday costs are actually slightly below the national average for Italy. For instance, a decent 1-bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood outside the historic center might set you back €800-€1,100 per month. Groceries for one person could be around €250-€350 monthly. Public transport is affordable at €1.50 for a single ticket or €35 for a monthly pass. Dining out in a casual trattoria can be €15-€25 per person, while a nicer meal might run €40-€60. Italy's overall tax burden, including income tax, is around 43.3% of GDP, which is higher than the US (27.2%) but lower than France (45.3%). While not cheap, Rome offers a better bang for your buck compared to Milan (1.09x cost multiplier) or even Florence (1.02x). If you're considering a move, Rome provides a good balance of urban living and relative affordability within Italy.