The rental market in Italy has undergone a dramatic shift between 2019 and 2026, with prices in major cities surging far beyond the pace of wage growth. This escalation has created a substantial affordability crisis, putting immense pressure on residents’ budgets and the
Data from the Osservatorio del mercato immobiliare dell’Agenzia delle Entrate analyzed by the CNA reveals that rental prices in Italy’s key cities have increased up to five times more than salaries during this period. This stark disparity has widened the gap between housing costs and residents’ ability to pay, posing significant challenges for many households.
Milano and Firenze Lead the Way in Rental Increases
Milano and Firenze have seen the most pronounced hikes, with rental prices soaring by 49% since 2019. Today, renting a 70-square-meter apartment costs over €1,800 per month in Milano and €1,340 in Firenze. The impact on residents’ incomes is profound, with rent absorbing 73% of the average net salary in Milano and 62% in Firenze.
Other cities, including BolognaVeneziaRomaPadovaVerona and Pisa have also experienced significant increases, with rent now exceeding 50% of the average net salary in these locations.
Southern Cities See More Moderate Rental Growth
In contrast, cities in southern Italy have seen more modest rental increases. Potenza for example, has experienced the lowest rise at 19%. Other southern cities like L’AquilaCatanzaroIserniaCaltanissetta and Enna have also seen relatively lower impacts, with rent accounting for less than 32% of the average net salary.
The Broader Impact of Rising Rents
The escalating cost of rent is having far-reaching consequences on both individuals and the economy. Small and medium-sized enterprises are finding it increasingly difficult to attract skilled workers due to the high cost of living. This situation is hindering professional mobility and reducing the attractiveness of these cities, ultimately affecting employment and economic competitiveness.
Additionally, the high cost of rent is squeezing household budgets, reducing consumption and savings. This has a negative ripple effect on the local economy, further exacerbating the challenges faced by residents.
The CNA led by Dario Costantini has identified housing as a critical economic issue that could impede growth, investment, and local development. The organization is advocating for structural interventions to increase the supply of affordable housing, revitalize underutilized properties, and promote urban regeneration.
Among the proposals put forward by the CNA are incentives for property upgrades and a comprehensive housing plan that balances economic development with social sustainability. Without concrete actions, Italy’s major cities risk becoming increasingly inaccessible to young people, workers, and families.
