Austin vs Rome

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Rome is roughly 25% more affordable than Austin (index 41 vs 54, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Rome
More affordable overall
25% cheaper than Austin · Cost index: 41 vs 54

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

54Cost Index41
5,000Median Income /mo2,200
35Safety Index75
0Income Tax %33
940Internet (Mbps)80
350Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

AustinCategoryRome
$1,750/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
18% ← cheaper
$1,430/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
9% ← cheaper
$1/liter
$14/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
13% cheaper →
$16/meal
$37/month
Monthly Transit Pass
10% cheaper →
$41/month
$170/month
Utilities (Monthly)
21% cheaper →
$216/month
$85/visit
Doctor Visit
29% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Austin

Internet940 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Rome

Internet80 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Austin cheaper than Rome?

Rome is cheaper than Austin. Rome has a cost of living index of 41/100 compared to 54/100 for Austin (New York = 100), making it roughly 25% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Rome than Austin?

Rome is approximately 25% cheaper than Austin based on cost index scores (41 vs 54, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Austin could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,258/month in Rome.

What is the rent comparison between Austin and Rome?

In Austin, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,750/month. In Rome, the equivalent is around $1,430/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Austin or Rome?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Austin offers 940 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Rome offers 80 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Rome has a cost advantage of 25%.

What is the average income in Austin vs Rome?

The median net monthly salary in Austin is approximately $5,000 USD, compared to $2,200 USD in Rome.

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