Is it worth it buying property in Rome in 2025?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Italy Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Rome's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

INVESTROPA

A team specialized in real estate investing in European countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Rome. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At InvestRopa, we explore the Italian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

What types of properties can you buy in Rome and how do they differ?

Rome's residential property market offers four main types of properties, each with distinct characteristics and price points.

Apartments represent the most common option, especially in central and urban neighborhoods, accounting for the majority of available listings. These range from small studios to large family apartments, with most properties under 100 m² comprising 61% of the market.

Villas and townhouses are primarily found in suburban or green areas, offering more space and often private gardens. These properties typically exceed 100 m² and represent about 32% of the Rome property market.

Historic homes and luxury penthouses concentrate mainly in the city center and upscale districts like Centro Storico and Prati. These properties command premium prices due to their unique architectural features and prestigious locations.

Newly built homes are increasingly available in developing neighborhoods, particularly in emerging districts like EUR and Ostiense, offering modern amenities and energy efficiency.

What are current property prices in Rome and what's the forecast for 2025?

As of June 2025, Rome's average property price stands at €3,590 per m², representing a significant 6.94% increase from May 2024.

Property prices in Rome vary dramatically by location, ranging from €1,792 per m² in outer districts like Lunghezza and Castelverde to €8,484 per m² in the prestigious Centro Storico. A typical two-bedroom apartment costs around €350,000, though central areas consistently exceed €590,000.

The rental market shows even stronger growth, with average rental prices at €18.03 per m² per month, up 12.27% year-over-year. This sharp rental increase reflects tight inventory and high demand from students, expats, and professionals.

For the remainder of 2025, property prices are forecast to continue rising modestly at 0-2%, with high-quality, energy-efficient, and well-located properties leading this growth. The fundamental driver remains strong demand outpacing supply, particularly in central and prestigious districts.

It's something we develop in our Italy property pack.

Is it better to buy or rent in Rome in 2025?

Buying property in Rome is generally more advantageous than renting in 2025, especially for those planning to stay long-term.

With falling mortgage rates and rising rental market pressure, monthly mortgage payments often equal or fall below rent for comparable properties, assuming you have at least 20% for a down payment. Current mortgage rates make financing more accessible than in previous years.

Renting remains attractive for flexibility and short-term stays, but rising rents (4-6% increases forecast for large cities) and extremely low rental inventory make it less favorable for long-term residents. The rental market faces severe supply constraints, with available properties often receiving multiple applications within days.

For investment purposes, buying offers better long-term returns through both capital appreciation and rental income, especially in high-demand areas like Centro Storico, Trastevere, and university districts.

The decision ultimately depends on your down payment capacity, length of stay, and personal flexibility requirements, but market conditions in 2025 strongly favor ownership over renting for most situations.

What are the key trends in Rome's real estate market right now?

Rome's real estate market in 2025 shows exceptionally strong demand growth of 37% compared to supply growth of only 4%, creating a significant imbalance favoring sellers.

Demand remains robust and increasing, especially for quality, centrally located, and energy-efficient homes. Buyers prioritize properties with modern amenities, good transport connections, and low energy consumption due to rising utility costs.

The buyer profile includes a diverse mix of Italians (families and young professionals), foreign investors, and expats. The luxury and prime markets see particularly significant foreign interest, with international buyers attracted to Rome's historic charm and relative value compared to other European capitals.

Inventory levels remain critically low across most price segments, with the best properties in desirable locations selling quickly, often within weeks of listing. This tight supply especially affects the rental market, where demand from students, expats, and tourists concentrates in central and university-adjacent districts.

The market shows increasing preference for move-in-ready properties with modern systems, as renovation costs and complexity deter many buyers, particularly foreign investors seeking hassle-free purchases.

How does the property buying process work in Rome step by step?

Step	Process	Details & Timeline
1. Make Offer	Submit Proposta d'Acquisto	Formal offer with 1% deposit, typically valid 8-15 days
2. Preliminary Contract	Sign Compromesso/Atto Preliminare	Binding agreement with 10-20% deposit, includes due diligence period
3. Due Diligence	Legal and technical checks	Title verification, land registry, debts, planning compliance (4-8 weeks)
4. Mortgage Arrangement	Finalize financing	Bank approval and mortgage documentation (3-6 weeks)
5. Final Deed	Rogito Notarile	Signed before notary, final payment, registration (1 day)
6. Registration	Property transfer completion	Notary registers sale, keys transferred (1-2 weeks post-signing)
Total Timeline	Offer to completion	3-6 months depending on complexity and financing

The buying process requires working with a geometra (surveyor) and lawyer for due diligence, ensuring the property has clear title, no outstanding debts, and proper planning compliance.

Total costs include registration tax (2% for primary residence, 9% for second homes), notary fees (1-2% of price), legal fees (1-3%), and agency fees (3-5% plus VAT). Budget an additional 10-15% of the purchase price for all taxes and fees.

Where should you start looking for property in Rome?

Begin your Rome property search with the two most comprehensive online platforms: Immobiliare.it and Idealista.it, which offer the largest database of available properties with detailed filters for location, price, and property type.

For personalized service, consider working with established agencies including Sotheby's International Realty, Coldwell Banker, Barnes Rome, CMC Real Estate, and Immobiliare Coppedè. These firms offer both local expertise and international buyer services.

Hiring a bilingual real estate agent provides crucial advantages in negotiation and understanding local market nuances. Look for agents with specific experience in your target neighborhoods and price range.

Engage a lawyer specializing in Italian property law early in the process for due diligence and contract review. This legal support proves essential for foreign buyers navigating Italy's complex property regulations.

Consider attending weekend open houses in your areas of interest to understand market pricing and property conditions. This direct experience helps calibrate expectations and identify value opportunities in Rome's competitive market.

Which Rome neighborhoods offer the best property investment opportunities in 2025?

Centro Storico represents the premium investment choice at €8,484 per m², offering historic prestige and consistently high rental demand despite tourist crowds and premium pricing.

Prati provides excellent value at €6,035 per m², combining Vatican proximity with elegant architecture and strong rental prospects from diplomats and professionals. This area offers more authentic Roman living than tourist-heavy central zones.

Emerging districts like Ostiense and Garbatella at €4,217 per m² present the best growth potential, with ongoing redevelopment, trendy appeal, and good rental prospects from young professionals and creatives.

Mid-range options include Monteverde and San Giovanni (€4,250-€4,600 per m²), offering family-friendly environments, good transport connections, and steady rental demand from local families and expats.

Budget-conscious investors should consider Centocelle and Tor Sapienza (€2,542-€2,818 per m²) for affordable entry points with local character, though these areas require longer commutes to central Rome.

Avoid Lunghezza and Castelverde despite low prices (€1,792 per m²) due to poor transport connections and limited amenities that restrict both resale and rental potential.

What can you afford in Rome with different budgets?

With €150,000, expect a studio or small one-bedroom apartment (30-50 m²) in outer districts like Centocelle or Tor Sapienza, with central locations extremely rare at this price point.

A €300,000 budget opens opportunities for a one-bedroom apartment (50-70 m²) in mid-range neighborhoods like San Giovanni or Pigneto, or a small two-bedroom in peripheral areas with good transport links.

€500,000 allows purchase of a two-bedroom apartment (70-100 m²) in desirable mid-range areas like Monteverde or Testaccio, or provides entry-level access to prime districts like Trastevere or Prati.

€1 million and above grants access to large apartments or luxury properties in prime areas including Centro Storico, Prati, Parioli, and Aventino, typically featuring historic character, premium locations, and strong rental potential.

It's something we develop in our Italy property pack.

What are the most common property buying mistakes in Rome?

1. **Underestimating total costs** - Add 10-15% to the purchase price for taxes, fees, and unexpected expenses2. **Skipping thorough due diligence** - Always verify title, outstanding debts, building compliance, and condominium regulations3. **Relying solely on agents** - Get independent legal advice from a qualified Italian property lawyer4. **Not budgeting for renovation** - Older Roman properties often require significant updates to electrical, plumbing, and heating systems5. **Ignoring local regulations** - Historic zones have strict renovation rules, and seismic risk assessments may be required6. **Making emotional decisions** - Let rational financial analysis guide your choice, not just aesthetic appeal7. **Not considering rental alternatives** - Sometimes renting remains more economical for your specific situation

Foreign buyers particularly struggle with understanding condominium fees, building management responsibilities, and ongoing property taxes like IMU, TASI, and TARI that vary significantly by location and property type.

What does it cost to live in Rome in 2025?

A single person requires €2,100-€2,500 per month for a comfortable lifestyle in Rome, while a family of four needs approximately €3,982 monthly excluding rent.

Housing represents the largest expense, with average rent at €1,270 per month across all property types. Utilities for an 85 m² apartment cost around €210 monthly for two people, including electricity, heating, water, and garbage collection.

Monthly grocery costs average €275 for one person, with local markets offering better value than supermarkets. Dining out costs €15-25 for lunch and €30-50 for dinner at mid-range restaurants.

Public transportation remains affordable at €35 monthly for unlimited metro, bus, and tram access. Healthcare through Italy's public system provides good coverage, though private insurance offers faster access to specialists.

Rome costs significantly less than Milan, Paris, or Amsterdam but ranks higher than other Italian cities like Naples or Bologna, making it moderately expensive by European standards.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Italy versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What is expat life like in Rome?

Rome offers an exceptional lifestyle for expats, combining vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, historic beauty, and an active international community.

The city provides outstanding cultural amenities including world-class museums, theaters, and architectural sites, plus excellent restaurants and cafes that create a rich daily experience. The climate offers mild winters and warm summers ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Bureaucracy can be slow and complex, particularly for residency permits, tax registration, and municipal services. Learning basic Italian significantly improves daily interactions and bureaucratic processes, though many Romans speak English in tourist and business areas.

Safety remains generally excellent, with low violent crime rates, though pickpocketing occurs in tourist areas. Most neighborhoods feel safe for walking at night, especially areas like Prati, Trastevere, and Parioli where many expats live.

Integration becomes easier with Italian language skills and participation in local activities. Active expat communities exist particularly in Prati, Trastevere, and Parioli, offering networking opportunities and practical support for newcomers navigating Italian systems and culture.

How profitable is rental property investment in Rome?

Rome's rental property market offers solid returns with yields ranging from 3-5% in prime areas, making it competitive with other major European capitals.

The best rental investment areas include Centro Storico, Trastevere, Prati, San Lorenzo (for students), and Testaccio, where consistent demand from expats, professionals, students, and tourists maintains high occupancy rates.

Typical tenants seek centrally located, furnished properties with modern amenities, good transport connections, and energy efficiency. Properties near metro stations, universities, or business districts command premium rents and attract quality long-term tenants.

Rental income varies significantly by area and property type, with one to two-bedroom apartments in central districts generating €1,000-€2,500 monthly. Professional property management costs 8-12% of rental income but provides valuable local expertise and tenant management.

The rental market benefits from Rome's status as Italy's capital, major tourist destination, and university city, creating diverse tenant demand that provides stability across economic cycles. However, consider seasonal fluctuations and periodic maintenance costs when calculating investment returns.

It's something we develop in our Italy property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Real Estate - Rome Properties
2. Immobiliare.it - Rome Property Market
3. InvestRopa - Rome Real Estate Market Analysis
4. Immobiliare.it - Rome Market Data
5. Global Property Guide - Italy Price History
6. Idealista - Rent vs Buy Analysis
7. Chambers - Italy Real Estate Trends 2025
8. DeTullio Law Firm - Buying Property in Italy
9. Italica Homes - Property Taxes and Fees
10. Expatistan - Rome Cost of Living