Rome is undoubtedly a beautiful city, rich in history and culture. While this is true, expats living in Rome share a broader experience, including the various ups and downs that come with living in what is effectively an ancient site and modern metropolis in one. It’s worth considering a range of factors before deciding to relocate to Italy’s capital. Here are some of the main pros and cons of moving to Rome.
Accommodation in Rome
+ PRO: Wide range of housing options
Rome offers a diverse array of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From historic apartments in the city centre to modern flats and houses in the suburbs, you’re likely to find a place that suits your lifestyle. Additionally, many of these accommodations are close to essential amenities, making daily life convenient.
- CON: High rental prices in central areas
Living in the heart of Rome can be expensive, with rents significantly higher than in the outskirts. Expats looking for accommodation in central Rome may have to compromise on space and amenities due to the high cost of living in these prime locations. They may have more luck choosing slightly less central areas or suburbs in Rome.
Renting Expat Accommodation in Rome
Recommended Areas and Suburbs in Rome
Lifestyle in Rome
+ PRO: Locals are friendly and welcoming
Italian people tend to be warm, friendly, generous, and family oriented. It’s common for locals in Rome to invite newly arrived friends over for home-cooked meals, which can certainly help you make meaningful connections and settle into life in your new city.
- CON: The language barrier
There is no real way to avoid the language barrier in Italy – locals are proud of their language and may not speak English. That said, Rome is likely to have more fluent English speakers than other Italian destinations. Taking the time to learn a few key phrases in Italian will help make life easier, though. Those who speak other Latin-influenced languages, like French or Spanish, should have an easier time picking up Italian.
+ PRO: World-renowned Italian food
Italian food needs no introduction, and expats moving to Rome will certainly be in for a treat. You can find beautifully prepared home-cooked dishes at local trattorias, exquisite meals at fine dining establishments, and loads of pizza, pasta, and coffee everywhere you look. Produce in local supermarkets is also likely to be fresh and of high quality.
- CON: Lots of tourists all the time
Rome is a tourism hotspot. In the summer months, especially, throngs of people, both from abroad and other parts of Italy, descend on the Italian capital. While tourism is an important source of income for Rome, the masses can become an annoyance to locals (and expats) because major attractions become incredibly crowded and prices are driven up.
+ PRO: Family-friendly city
If you’re moving to Rome with kids and family in tow, you’ll be happy to know that there are a lot of family-friendly activities on offer. Most museums offer free or discounted entry for kids, and spending time outdoors at one of Rome’s many parks or gardens is a great summer activity for the whole family.
Working and doing business in Rome
- CON: The job market is competitive
The largest expat population in Italy is concentrated in Rome, and Roman employers tend to prefer equally qualified locals over expats. A reputation for excellence and competence is essential to get a job in the Italian capital.
+ PRO: In-demand qualifications are highly valued
If you have a university degree in marketing, communication, or IT, your chances of landing a job in Rome skyrocket, as local work culture places a significant emphasis on educational achievement. Combine this with some Italian language proficiency, and you’ll be a cut above the competition.
Cost of living in Rome
+ PRO: Reasonable cost of living
While living in Rome is by no means cheap, it’s certainly less expensive than in other European capital cities such as Paris or London. The country’s relatively stable economy also means that prices don’t see too many unpredictable swings.
- CON: Driving in Rome is pricey and tedious
Rome’s network of maze-like roads and alleys is a challenge to navigate by car, and the cost of parking and fuel adds to the stress associated with driving. Electric cars can ease the burden, but higher purchase costs need to be factored in.
Education in Rome
+ PRO: Access to affordable public schools
Public schooling in Italy is of a high standard and completely free until the age of 16, after which parents pay a negligible fee for enrolment. This option is viable for those who speak Italian fluently or for families who want to settle in Rome for a longer period.
- CON: Fees at international schools are remarkably high
Rome has long been a popular expat destination, and various international schools serve both the expat community and Italian students who choose them. That said, fees at many of these institutions can be extremely high, so you should try to negotiate an allowance to cover the costs as part of your employment package.
Education and Schooling in Rome
Best International Schools in Rome
Healthcare in Rome
+ PRO: Healthcare options to suit a broad range of budgets
Expats living in Italy have access to a solid public healthcare system. That said, despite doctors being highly qualified, the service at some hospitals can be undermined by bureaucratic issues. As a result, most people prefer a mix of private and public healthcare options. Having a broad range of options allows you to use the facilities that best meet your needs and circumstances.
Getting around in Rome
- CON: Traffic can be intense
Traffic in Rome can be hectic, particularly during the morning and afternoon rush hours. The narrow streets can be difficult to manoeuvre around in, and local drivers can be quite aggressive. In addition, parking, especially in the city centre, is expensive and hard to find.
+ PRO: Excellent public transport network
Getting around in Rome is simple, thanks to the city’s extensive public transport network that gets commuters where they need to be. Whether it’s by bus, tram, or metro, your travel needs will be catered for.