affordwhere
DestinationsBlogAboutData Sources
affordwhere

Palermo vs Rome: Cost of Living Compared

A side-by-side comparison of rent, daily expenses, and quality-of-life factors in Palermo (Italy) and Rome (Italy). Data sourced from official government statistics, updated 2026.

CategoryPalermoRome
CountryItalyItaly
CurrencyEUR (€)EUR (€)
1BR Rent Range€500 - €920Cheaper€820 - €1,900
2BR Rent Range€690 - €1,230Cheaper€1,100 - €2,500
Groceries / mo€228Cheaper€320
Transport Pass / mo€30Cheaper€35
Dining Out / mo€130Cheaper€180
English Level2/5 (Basic)3/5 (Moderate)Cheaper
Neighborhoods Tracked512
Healthcare SystemPublic (SSN)Public (SSN)

Verdict

Overall, Palermo tends to be more affordable when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, the two cities use the same currency, so exchange rates and local salary levels also play a significant role. Use our calculator to see what your specific salary means in each city.

Explore Palermo

5 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Italy

View Palermo details

Explore Rome

12 neighborhoods, rent data, and full cost breakdown in Italy

View Rome details

Calculate your salary in both cities

Enter your gross salary to see net pay, rent affordability, and savings potential in Palermo and Rome.

Open the comparison calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Palermo or Rome cheaper to live in?

Based on our data, Palermo is generally cheaper to live in when comparing rent, groceries, transport, and dining costs. However, costs vary significantly by neighborhood and lifestyle.

What is rent like in Palermo vs Rome?

In Palermo, 1-bedroom rents range from €500 to €920 per month across 5 neighborhoods. In Rome, 1-bedroom rents range from €820 to €1,900 per month across 12 neighborhoods.

How do transport costs compare in Palermo vs Rome?

A monthly public transport pass costs €30 in Palermo and €35 in Rome. Both cities have well-developed public transit systems.

Which city is better for expats, Palermo or Rome?

Palermo has an English proficiency rating of 2/5 (Basic) and Rome rates 3/5 (Moderate). Palermo uses Public (SSN) healthcare, while Rome uses Public (SSN). Both factors are important for expats considering a move.

affordwhere

Know what your salary buys before you move. Take-home pay, neighborhoods, and savings across 175+ cities in 33 countries.

Updated Mar 2026

Explore

  • Calculator
  • Blog
  • Data sources
  • Benchmarks

Countries

AustraliaAustriaBelgiumCanadaCyprusCzechiaDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyHong KongIndiaIndonesiaIrelandItalyJapanMalaysiaMexicoNetherlandsNew ZealandNorwayPolandPortugalSingaporeSpainSwedenSwitzerlandTaiwanThailandUAEU.K.U.S.A.Vietnam

Company

  • About
  • Testimonials
  • FAQ

Legal

  • Privacy
  • Terms

© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data