Living in Turin costs far less than Milan or Rome for housing: new long-term leases registered in Turin in 2025 averaged €113 per m² a year, about €9.40 per m² a month, against €206 in Milan and €162 in Rome (Agenzia delle Entrate OMI, checked 18 October 2026). Average household spending in Piedmont was €2,781 a month in 2025, in line with the Italian average of €2,782 (ISTAT). This guide covers costs, neighbourhoods, transport, jobs, culture and visas.
Turin (Torino) is the capital of Piedmont, Italy's first capital after unification in 1861 and the historic home of Fiat, set between the Po river and the Alps.
Movingto is an immigration firm that puts a named, Bar-registered lawyer from its in-house legal team on your case and publishes its fees.
Movingto's Italy services cover the visa side of a move to Turin: our elective residency visa service and digital nomad visa service (each from €2,500, see pricing) prepare the visa file with you. The first consultation is free.
Key Takeaways
- Turin has one of Italy's most active rental markets: about 14,100 new long-term leases were registered in 2025, second only to Milan among the big cities (OMI), so location and quick decisions matter.
- Housing in Turin is much cheaper than in Milan or Rome: rents on new long-term leases averaged €113 per m² a year in 2025, about 45% below Milan's €206 (OMI).
- Learning Italian and building a network are vital for expats, as the job market favors language proficiency and personal connections for professional opportunities.
Living in Turin: Getting Started with Your Move
The beginning of your move to Turin is all about preparation. Before you arrive, sort out your visa if you are not an EU citizen, get a codice fiscale (tax code) and decide which neighbourhoods to look at.
Finding a place to live is your first task. The rental market moves quickly, so use established listing platforms or agencies, view the flat (or have someone view it for you) before paying a deposit, and make sure the lease is registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate.
Location and local services are crucial when choosing your rental, as they will shape your experience. Turin’s neighborhoods each have their own unique charm, so explore to find what fits your lifestyle. Despite the initial hassle, finding your ideal spot will help you quickly grow to love Turin.
Understanding the Cost of Living in Turin
Considering the cost of living is crucial when moving to a new city. In Turin, new long-term leases averaged €113 per m² a year in 2025 on an average home of 67.5 m², which works out at roughly €640 a month as a city-wide average; central areas cost more (Agenzia delle Entrate OMI, Rapporto Immobiliare 2026, checked 18 October 2026). Homes sold in Turin in 2025 had an average value of about €185,700, against about €439,700 in Milan (OMI). Utility bills depend on the size and energy class of the flat, so ask for recent bills before you sign.
Transport in Turin is affordable: a GTT City ticket costs €1.90 bought digitally or €2.00 on paper, a monthly Formula U pass for the urban network costs €38, and the Under 26 monthly pass €25 (GTT, checked 18 October 2026).
Dining out ranges from traditional Piedmontese trattorias to aperitivo bars and fine dining. For a wider benchmark, ISTAT's 2025 survey puts average household spending in Piedmont at €2,781 a month, against €3,066 in Lombardy and €2,980 in Lazio; these regional averages include an imputed rent for owner-occupiers (ISTAT). Overall, Turin's lower housing costs make it one of the more affordable big cities in northern Italy.
| Item | Turin | Milan | Rome |
|---|---|---|---|
| New long-term leases, rent per m² a year (2025) | €113 | €206 | €162 |
| Average size of leased home (2025) | 67.5 m² | 68.6 m² | 80.1 m² |
| Average value of a home sold (2025) | About €185,700 | About €439,700 | About €270,200 |
| Household spending, region (2025) | €2,781 a month (Piedmont) | €3,066 a month (Lombardy) | €2,980 a month (Lazio) |
| Single ticket | €1.90 digital / €2.00 paper (GTT) | €2.20, 90 minutes (ATM) | €1.50, 100 minutes (BIT) |
| Monthly pass | €38 (Formula U) | €39 (urban) | €35 (personal) |
Choosing the Right Neighborhood in Turin
Choosing the right neighbourhood in Turin can significantly shape your expat experience. Centro is the historic heart of the city, with arcaded streets, museums and a lively atmosphere. On safety, Turin province ranked fifth in Italy for reported crimes per 100,000 residents in 2025, with reports down 4.3% on 2024, in Il Sole 24 Ore's Indice della criminalità 2026 based on Interior Ministry data (checked 18 October 2026); as in any big city, watch for pickpockets in busy central areas and on public transport.
San Salvario, next to Parco del Valentino, is a lively, multicultural neighbourhood with plenty of cafés, bars and small businesses. Your choice will depend on whether you prefer a historic central setting or a more residential, local feel.
Advantages of Living in the City Center
Living in or near Turin's centre puts you close to a rich cultural scene and nightlife. San Salvario, Vanchiglia and the Quadrilatero Romano are known for bars and restaurants, and the Murazzi along the Po river have long been a nightlife spot.
The beautiful architecture and historical landmarks add to the charm, making it a great city for those who love being in the heart of the action.
Family-Friendly Areas
Families often look for space and green areas. Mirafiori Sud, in the south of the city, has large parks and green spaces with room for children to play. Aurora, north of the centre around Porta Palazzo, is a fast-changing area with more modest prices; visit at different times of day before you sign.
Outdoor space can be hard to find in compact city flats, so families often weigh a balcony or nearby park against a central location. Visiting schools, parks and transport stops in person is the best way to compare areas.
Navigating Day-to-Day Life in Turin
Turin's well-developed infrastructure simplifies day-to-day life. Whether you prefer walking, biking or public transport, getting around is convenient, and the city's grid of streets and long arcades makes it easy to find your way.
Ease of transportation and the availability of various amenities make daily life in Turin relatively smooth. Additionally, the city’s walkability encourages a healthier lifestyle, as walking is both common and a delightful way to experience the beautiful streets and parks.
Public Transport Options
Turin's public transport, run by GTT, includes buses, trams and metro Line 1, which links Fermi (Collegno) with Bengasi via the Porta Susa and Porta Nuova railway stations. For short distances, walking is often the easiest way to get around and to enjoy the city.
For alternatives to public transport, scooters and ride-sharing apps are available. However, relying on a car can be challenging due to narrow streets and parking difficulties.
Turin’s public transport options provide a hassle-free way to navigate the city.
Grocery Shopping and Markets
Grocery shopping in Turin offers a mix of experiences, from open-air markets to supermarkets. Porta Palazzo, the large open-air market in Piazza della Repubblica, is a must-visit for fresh produce and local foods at good prices.
Many grocery stores in Turin cater to diverse culinary preferences, offering both local and international products. Whether you’re looking for specialty items or everyday essentials, there are plenty of options to suit your needs.
Job Opportunities and Working in Turin
Turin's economy has long been built on the automotive industry (Fiat, now part of Stellantis) and engineering, alongside universities such as the Politecnico di Torino, food companies and healthcare. Italian is usually needed for local jobs, so language skills make a real difference to your prospects.
Learning Italian for Work
Learning Italian is important for finding work in Turin, as many job postings list it as a requirement. Italian is the language of the workplace in most local companies, and fluency also eases daily life and paperwork.
Various methods exist to learn Italian, including online courses, language exchange programs, and language schools. Investing time in learning Italian will benefit both your professional and personal life, making your experience in Turin more fulfilling.
Networking with Other Expats
Networking is vital for expat life in Turin. Building connections can lead to job opportunities and a strong support system. Attending expat-focused job fairs and workshops can provide valuable leads and contacts in your field.
Joining local expat living groups on social media is another effective way to meet others in similar situations and share resources in the same way. These connections can significantly enhance your expat experience, helping you feel more at home.
Enjoying Turin's Culture and Lifestyle
Turin's culture and lifestyle are rich and varied, from its museums, such as the Egyptian Museum and the National Cinema Museum in the Mole Antonelliana, to its café culture and food traditions.
The atmosphere is less touristy compared to other Italian cities, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in authentic Italian life.
Experiencing Turin's Food Scene
Turin’s food scene is a gastronomic delight, with dining options ranging from Michelin-star establishments to affordable eateries. You can savor Piemontese cuisine, known for its tagliere style aperitivo and antipasti. Additionally, the city boasts a variety of ethnic restaurants, including Turkish, Somali, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, and Thai cuisines.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or just looking for the best food, Turin has something to offer. The focus on good food reflects the city’s culinary tradition, enhancing the overall living experience.
Wine Tasting in Northern Italy
Wine lovers are well placed in Turin. The vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato, south and east of the city, are a UNESCO World Heritage site, home to wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco.
From local vineyards to wine-tasting tours, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in the region’s offerings.
Nightlife and Social Activities
Turin's nightlife is diverse, from wine bars and live music to dance clubs. GTT's Night Buster night bus network helps you get home after a night out.
Daily and multi-day GTT tickets are also available, which can be good value if you make several trips in a day. Whether you prefer a quiet evening with friends or a lively night out, Turin has it all.
Dealing with Challenges in Turin
Adjusting to life in Turin can be challenging, especially for expats. The process can be emotionally draining and humbling as daily tasks become more complex in a new environment. Language barriers and difficulty finding common household items can add to the stress.
However, with the right mindset and support, these challenges can be overcome.
Overcoming Language Barriers
One of the biggest challenges for expats in Turin is the language barrier, as English is less widely spoken than in Milan's international business community and many jobs require Italian. Online courses, language exchanges and language schools are all good ways to learn.
Investing time in learning Italian will help in the job market and make daily interactions easier. It will enhance your overall experience in Turin, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.
Coping with Cultural Differences
Adapting to cultural differences is a big part of your expat journey. Some newcomers find it takes time to make local friends, because many people keep the social circles they formed when young.
Engaging in community events and activities is highly recommended to overcome this. These events provide opportunities to meet people and build connections, helping you feel more at home. Additionally, connecting with other expats can provide a support system and help you navigate the cultural landscape more effectively.
Exploring Beyond Turin
Living in Turin offers excellent opportunities for exploring beyond the city limits. The surrounding regions are rich in cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply a change of scenery, there’s plenty to discover.
Venaria Reale, often called the ‘Versailles of Piemonte,’ is a must-visit for its stunning Baroque architecture.
Day Trips to the Italian Riviera
The Italian Riviera is within reach of Turin, with coastal views and charming towns to explore. Destinations such as Portofino and the Cinque Terre are better suited to a weekend away than a day trip, given the travel time.
Genoa, the Riviera's main city, is about two hours from Turin by direct train, which makes it a practical day trip. Whether you want to relax by the sea or explore coastal towns, the Riviera is a great getaway.
Visiting Other Italian Cities
Turin's location makes it easy to visit other Italian cities. Milan is about an hour away on the fastest trains, and Florence, known for its Renaissance art and architecture, roughly three hours away. Travel times vary by service, so check the timetable.
Bologna, with its food culture and historic university, is another easy trip, while Aosta, often called 'the Rome of the Alps' for its Roman remains, is roughly two hours away by train. These trips are a good way to explore Italy's diverse regions.
Do you need a visa to live in Turin?
EU citizens can live in Turin with an ID card or passport and must register at the city's registry office (anagrafe) if they stay longer than three months (Legislative Decree 30/2007 art. 9). Non-EU citizens need a national (type D) visa for stays over 90 days, such as the elective residency visa (consulates look for about €31,000 a year of passive income per applicant) or the digital nomad visa (at least €24,789.93 a year), and must request a residence permit within eight working days of arrival (Immigration Act art. 5(2)). Our Italy visas guide compares the routes.
Summary
Moving to Turin is a rewarding experience filled with opportunities to explore a new culture and lifestyle. From understanding the cost of living and finding the right neighborhood to navigating day-to-day life and enjoying the local culture, this guide has provided essential tips to help you transition smoothly. Embrace the challenges, connect with the community, and take full advantage of everything Turin and its surroundings have to offer. Remember, every step of your journey contributes to making Turin feel like home.