Italy is a popular destination for international students, not only for its rich history, culture, and world-class education system but also for its diverse range of affordable living options.
While cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence may draw most of the attention, they are often known for their high living costs.
However, Italy also boasts several student-friendly cities where international students can enjoy a quality education and vibrant student life without breaking the bank.
In this article, we will explore the most affordable cities in Italy for international students in 2025.
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Bologna
Bologna is one of the most renowned student cities in Italy and is home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world.
While Bologna is a vibrant and historical city, it remains relatively affordable for students, especially when compared to cities like Rome or Milan.
Cost of Living
The average monthly living expenses in Bologna range from €700 to €1,000, which includes rent, food, and transport.
Accommodation costs can vary, with student dormitories or shared apartments being the most affordable options.
Renting a shared flat can cost around €350-€500 per month, while university dormitories tend to be slightly cheaper.
Why Bologna?
Bologna offers a high quality of life with numerous student discounts, affordable public transport, and a large international community.
It also boasts a rich cultural scene, with plenty of activities for students on a budget.
Perugia
Located in central Italy, Perugia is an affordable city with a significant student population, largely due to the University for Foreigners, which attracts many international students.
The city offers a great balance between education and lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for those on a budget.
Cost of Living
Students in Perugia typically spend between €600 to €800 per month, making it one of the most affordable cities in Italy.
Accommodation options are relatively cheap, with shared apartments costing around €250-€400 per month.
Groceries and dining out are also reasonably priced, with many restaurants offering student discounts.
Why Perugia?
Perugia is known for its charming medieval architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Despite being a smaller city, it has a lively student atmosphere, with many international students enjoying the relatively low living costs.
Catania
Located on the island of Sicily, Catania is a charming and affordable city for international students.
Known for its history, cuisine, and proximity to beautiful beaches, Catania offers students an excellent balance between study and leisure.
Cost of Living
Living costs in Catania are relatively low, with students spending an average of €600 to €800 per month.
Rent for shared apartments can be as low as €250-€350 per month.
Food and transportation are also affordable, making it an ideal location for students looking to save while enjoying a Mediterranean lifestyle.
Why Catania?
Catania is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a large student population.
The cost of living is low, and the city offers plenty of opportunities to explore Sicilian culture, food, and beautiful landscapes, all within an affordable budget.
Naples
Naples, located in southern Italy, is a dynamic and historically rich city that offers affordable living for international students.
With the University of Naples Federico II being one of the largest and oldest universities in Italy, Naples is a popular destination for students from around the world.
Cost of Living
Students living in Naples can expect to spend between €700 and €1,000 per month. Rent for shared accommodation ranges from €300 to €500 per month.
Grocery prices are lower compared to northern Italian cities, and public transportation is inexpensive, making Naples a student-friendly option.
Why Naples?
Naples is an exciting city known for its food, especially pizza, and its proximity to historical sites like Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast.
The city’s relatively low living costs, combined with its rich cultural scene, make it an attractive choice for international students.
Turin
Although Turin is often overlooked in favor of other Italian cities, it is a fantastic choice for students looking to live in a less touristy, more affordable city.
Known for its automotive industry and vibrant cultural life, Turin offers a unique blend of education and culture at a reasonable cost.
Cost of Living
In Turin, students can live on a budget of €700 to €1,000 per month.
Rent for a shared apartment typically ranges from €300 to €500. Public transportation is well-connected, and the city’s many student discounts make it easier to enjoy all that Turin has to offer without overspending.
Why Turin?
Turin offers an attractive mix of modern amenities and historic charm, with plenty of parks, museums, and cultural activities.
The presence of several major universities, including the University of Turin, makes it a popular choice for both Italian and international students.
Trieste
Located in northeastern Italy near the Adriatic Sea, Trieste is an affordable city with a unique multicultural atmosphere.
The city’s universities attract many international students, particularly those studying linguistics, international relations, and science.
Cost of Living
Trieste offers affordable living costs, with students spending between €600 to €800 per month.
Rent for a shared apartment typically costs between €300 to €450 per month. The cost of food and public transport is also relatively low.
Why Trieste?
Trieste is a smaller city with a laid-back atmosphere, yet it offers a diverse cultural experience due to its proximity to Slovenia and Croatia.
The cost of living is lower than in major Italian cities, and the city provides a high quality of life for students on a budget.
Lecce
Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” is a beautiful city located in the Puglia region of southern Italy.
It is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, vibrant arts scene, and affordable cost of living.
Cost of Living
Students can expect to spend around €600 to €800 per month living in Lecce.
Rent for shared apartments is relatively affordable, ranging from €250 to €400 per month.
Dining out and groceries are also inexpensive, making Lecce a great option for students on a budget.
Why Lecce?
Lecce offers a slower pace of life compared to major Italian cities, making it a peaceful place to focus on studies.
The city’s beautiful architecture, affordable living, and proximity to the coast make it a charming and cost-effective place to live.
Conclusion
Italy is an ideal destination for international students, offering a blend of rich history, world-class education, and vibrant student life.
While some cities may be more expensive, there are several affordable cities where students can live comfortably without exceeding their budget.
Bologna, Perugia, Catania, Naples, Turin, Trieste, and Lecce all offer affordable living options while providing students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Italy’s unique culture and education system.
By choosing one of these cities, international students can make the most of their time in Italy while managing their finances effectively.