Finding suitable accommodation is one of the most important tasks for students planning to study in Italy. Whether you’re enrolling in a university in Rome, Florence, Milan, or Bologna, securing a comfortable and affordable place to live is key to making your experience enjoyable and stress-free. Italy offers a variety of housing options for students, from university dormitories to private rentals. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process of finding student accommodation in Italy.
1. Start Early
The demand for student housing in popular university cities can be high, especially at the beginning of the academic year (September/October). To avoid last-minute stress:
- Begin your search 3–6 months before arrival .
- Apply for university-provided housing as soon as possible if available.
- Research neighborhoods and rental prices in advance.
2. Explore Housing Options
Italy offers several types of accommodation for students, each with its own advantages and considerations:
A. University Dormitories (Residenze Universitarie)
- Managed by universities or affiliated organizations like EDISU (Ente per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario) in northern Italy.
- Affordable compared to private rentals, often costing €250–€500 per month.
- Shared facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and common areas.
- Limited availability, so apply early through your university’s housing office.
B. Private Rentals
- Renting an apartment or room independently gives you more flexibility.
- Options include:
- Shared Apartments (Stanze in Affitto): Rent a single room in a shared flat with other students. Costs range from €300–€600 per month.
- Private Studios: Ideal for those who prefer privacy, but more expensive (€600–€1,000+ per month).
- Use platforms like Subito.it , Idealista.it , or Facebook groups to find listings.
C. Homestays
- Live with an Italian host family to immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Typically costs €400–€700 per month, including meals.
- Great for improving your Italian language skills and gaining insight into Italian life.
D. Co-Living Spaces
- Modern co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular in larger cities like Milan and Rome.
- These offer fully furnished rooms, shared amenities, and community events.
- Prices vary but are generally mid-range (€500–€800 per month).
3. Use Online Platforms
Several websites cater specifically to students looking for accommodation in Italy:
- Universitaly.it: Official portal for international students, providing links to housing resources.
- Uniaffitta.it: A platform connecting students with landlords offering short-term and long-term rentals.
- HousingAnywhere.com: Popular among international students for finding temporary or sublet accommodations.
- EasyStudentRoom.com: Focuses on student-friendly housing across Italian cities.
- Facebook Groups: Search for groups like “Rooms for Rent in [City Name]” or “Student Housing Italy” where locals and expats post listings.
4. Contact Your University
Most Italian universities have dedicated offices to assist students with housing:
- International Student Offices: Provide guidance on finding accommodation and may offer guaranteed housing for incoming exchange students.
- Housing Lists: Some universities maintain databases of verified landlords and properties near campus.
- Orientation Programs: Attend pre-arrival webinars or orientation sessions that often include housing advice.
If your university has limited dormitory options, they may partner with external providers or recommend trusted agencies.
5. Consider Location
Choosing the right neighborhood can significantly impact your quality of life:
- Proximity to Campus: Living close to your university saves time and transportation costs.
- Public Transport Access: Ensure your accommodation is near metro stations, bus stops, or tram lines if commuting is necessary.
- Safety: Research crime rates and choose well-lit, secure areas.
- Budget-Friendly Zones: Avoid tourist-heavy districts like city centers, which tend to have higher rents.
Popular student neighborhoods include:
- Rome: San Lorenzo, Monti, Testaccio
- Milan: Navigli, Lambrate, Bicocca
- Florence: Rifredi, Campo di Marte, Novoli
- Bologna: Saragozza, San Donato, Lame
6. Budget Wisely
Accommodation costs vary widely depending on the city:
- Northern Cities (Milan, Turin): Higher rents due to economic activity and demand.
- Central Cities (Rome, Florence): Moderate to high rents, especially in historic centers.
- Southern Cities (Naples, Palermo): Generally more affordable.
Factor in additional expenses:
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): €50–€100 per month (shared apartments).
- Internet: €20–€30 per month.
- Security Deposit: Typically 1–3 months’ rent, refundable upon move-out.
7. Visit Before Committing
If possible, visit potential accommodations before signing a lease:
- Inspect the property for cleanliness, safety, and functionality.
- Check for hidden fees, such as agency commissions or maintenance charges.
- Meet your potential roommates to ensure compatibility.
For remote bookings, ask for detailed photos/videos and request references from previous tenants.
8. Understand Lease Agreements
When renting privately, carefully review the contract (contratto di locazione ):
- Duration: Short-term leases (6–12 months) are common for students.
- Rent Payment: Confirm payment methods and deadlines.
- Conditions: Clarify rules about pets, guests, noise, and renovations.
- Language Barrier: If the contract is in Italian, consider hiring a translator or asking your university for assistance.
9. Look Into Temporary Housing
If you’re unable to secure permanent accommodation before arriving, book temporary housing for your first few weeks:
- Hostels or guesthouses via platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb .
- Student residences offering short-term stays.
- Couchsurfing or homestay programs for cultural immersion.
Once settled, you can focus on finding a long-term solution without rushing.
10. Join Student Communities
Connecting with fellow students can simplify your housing search:
- Join WhatsApp groups, Telegram channels, or Facebook communities for your university.
- Attend welcome events or meetups organized by student associations.
- Ask seniors for recommendations based on their experiences.
