🏠 Housing — Italy
How difficult is it to find housing in Italy?
Housing in Italy is difficult in major university cities because student demand is high, public dormitory places are limited and many private landlords prefer Italian-speaking tenants or long contracts. Milan is usually the most expensive, followed by Rome, Florence and Bologna. Turin, Padua, Pisa, Pavia, Naples and Bari can be more affordable but still require early searching.
The University of Bologna provides housing resources and services for non-resident and exchange students, which shows how important housing support is in cities with high student demand.
University dormitories and DSU residences
Italy has public and university-linked residences, often connected to regional right-to-study bodies such as DSU, ER.GO, DiSCo Lazio or similar regional agencies. These are usually the cheapest options and may be free or subsidised for students who receive regional scholarships.
Typical dormitory prices:
- Subsidised DSU residence: €150 to €400 per month
- University residence: €250 to €600 per month
- Private student residence: €600 to €1,200 per month
Politecnico di Milano lists residence halls across Milan, Lecco and Como, and its published rates show that annual or semester residence costs can be significant in Milan, especially for single rooms. The university also states that subsidised DSU accommodation places are assigned through a public call, with limited places available.
Private rooms and shared apartments
Most international students in Italy rent a room in a shared apartment. Prices depend strongly on city and location.
Approximate monthly prices:
- Milan: €600 to €900+ for a room, €900 to €1,400+ for a studio
- Rome: €450 to €750 for a room, €800 to €1,200 for a studio
- Bologna: €450 to €650 for a single room, €800 to €1,000 for a studio
- Turin and Padua: €350 to €600 for a room
- Naples, Bari, Palermo, Catania: €250 to €500 for a room
SAIS Bologna reports that a single room in Bologna is usually around €450 to €600 per month, while a double room is around €300 to €360 excluding expenses, and studios may cost around €800 to €1,000.
Best platforms to find housing in Italy
- University housing office: always start here.
- DSU / ER.GO / DiSCo / regional scholarship office: for subsidised residences.
- Immobiliare.it: one of Italy’s main rental platforms.
- Idealista.it: widely used for rooms and apartments.
- Casa.it: private apartments and rooms.
- Bakeca and Subito.it: local listings, useful but require caution.
- DoveVivo, Spotahome, HousingAnywhere, Uniplaces: furnished rooms, often easier for international students.
- City-specific Facebook and WhatsApp groups.
Final advice
In Italy, start early and do not rely only on university dormitories. Have a backup plan in the private market, especially if you are going to Milan, Rome or Bologna. Avoid paying deposits without a signed contract and verified landlord. If you need help comparing Italian cities, understanding DSU housing or planning your student application, we can help.
Frequently asked questions
When should I start looking for student housing?
Start as soon as you receive your admission. In competitive cities, apply for dormitories immediately and begin searching for private rooms 2 to 4 months before arrival. Never send money before verifying the landlord, the contract and the address.
This is starter guidance and changes often — always confirm on the official source before applying.
Use the free Scholarship Finder and country comparison, then get a personal plan.