Rome vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Rome is roughly 18% more affordable than Madrid (index 31 vs 38, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Rome
More affordable overall
18% cheaper than Madrid · Cost index: 31 vs 38

Life Power at $3,000/mo

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

Head-to-Head Stats

31Cost Index38
2,400Median Income /mo3,150
70Safety Index65
32Income Tax %25
75Internet (Mbps)95
280Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

RomeCategoryMadrid
$1,350/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
10% ← cheaper
$1,210/month
$1.7/liter
Meal for One
41% ← cheaper
$1/liter
$13/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
13% cheaper →
$15/meal
$38/month
Monthly Transit Pass
37% cheaper →
$60/month
$140/month
Utilities (Monthly)
15% cheaper →
$165/month
$70/visit
Doctor Visit
$70/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Rome

Internet75 Mbps
Coworking$280/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability78/100

Madrid

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rome cheaper than Madrid?

Rome is cheaper than Madrid. Rome has a cost of living index of 31/100 compared to 38/100 for Madrid (New York = 100), making it roughly 18% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Rome than Madrid?

Rome is approximately 18% cheaper than Madrid based on cost index scores (31 vs 38, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Madrid could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,471/month in Rome.

What is the rent comparison between Rome and Madrid?

In Rome, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,350/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,210/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Rome offers 75 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$280/month. Madrid offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Rome has a cost advantage of 18%.

What is the average income in Rome vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Rome is approximately $2,400 USD, compared to $3,150 USD in Madrid.

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