Is Sardinia Expensive to Live? A Breakdown of Costs

Sardinia, a large island in the Mediterranean Sea, attracts those considering relocation or extended stays. The cost of living in Sardinia fluctuates, largely depending on the specific location and individual spending patterns. While generally less expensive than some other parts of Italy, a detailed examination of expenses provides a clearer picture.

Understanding Housing Expenses

Housing is a significant portion of living costs in Sardinia, with prices varying across different areas. Average rental prices in major cities like Cagliari range from €500-€700 per month for a studio and €700-€1000 for a two-bedroom apartment. In Sassari, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost around €467 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment could be about €850. Coastal and tourist hotspots, especially during peak season, command higher prices, with luxury properties in areas like Porto Cervo reaching elevated values.

For property ownership, the average asking price for residential properties across Sardinia was approximately €2,417 per square meter in 2025, showing an increase from the previous year. This average masks regional differences. Property prices in Sassari averaged €2,951 per square meter in 2025, while Oristano had a lower average of €1,059 per square meter. Luxury villas in coastal towns sold for €1.5 million to €3 million recently, reflecting a high-end market segment.

The cost of purchasing a small house with a sea view can start around €370,000, with properties near the northern coast typically more expensive, ranging from €260,000 to €290,000 for an apartment close to the sea. A villa with a swimming pool may exceed €2.5 million. Prime locations and larger properties come with a higher financial commitment.

Navigating Daily Living Costs

Daily living expenses in Sardinia encompass food, utilities, and transportation. Grocery prices are generally affordable, with supermarkets and local markets offering various options. A weekly budget for one person’s groceries could be around €50-€70 in Cagliari. A typical plate of pasta in a restaurant might cost around €10, while a fish or meat dish could be €15. A three-course dinner can range from €25-€30 per person, with upscale restaurants charging more.

Utility costs in Sardinia tend to be higher than the Italian average, partly due to less widespread city gas availability, leading to greater reliance on electrical heating devices. The average annual electricity bill for a family was approximately €903. A basic utility package for a standard apartment, including electricity, heating, and water, averages around €150 per month in Cagliari, while internet service can be about €31 monthly.

Transportation within Sardinia offers various modes, though a private vehicle often provides the most flexibility. Public transport includes buses and trains, with a single bus ticket costing approximately €1.50. A monthly public transport pass in Cagliari is about €30, offering savings for frequent commuters. Train travel is also relatively affordable, with longer journeys across the island costing less than €20. Fuel, insurance, and maintenance contribute to the cost of private vehicle ownership.

Healthcare and Lifestyle Expenditures

Healthcare in Sardinia is part of Italy’s National Healthcare Service (SSN), which aims to provide universal coverage. Legal residents, including non-EU citizens with proper permits, can access the public system, though some non-EU citizens may need to pay an annual contribution. Specialist visits may incur co-payment fees, but exemptions exist based on income, age, or specific health conditions. Many individuals, including expatriates, opt for private health insurance to access shorter waiting times and a broader choice of providers, with annual premiums ranging from €1,000 to €3,000. Emergency medical services are available to everyone, regardless of nationality.

Entertainment options like cinema tickets are typically around €8-€10. Gym memberships can cost approximately €50 per month. Personal care expenses, such as toiletries and haircuts, align with general European prices. Leisure activities, from exploring historical sites to enjoying the beaches, can be relatively inexpensive. However, some tourist-oriented services, like renting beach umbrellas and sunbeds, average around €20 per day.

Factors Influencing Overall Cost of Living

The cost of living in Sardinia is not uniform, as several factors influence individual expenses. Geographical location plays a substantial role, with urban centers like Cagliari and Sassari generally having higher costs for housing and services compared to smaller towns or rural areas. Tourist-heavy coastal regions, especially during peak seasons, experience inflated prices for accommodation, dining, and activities. This seasonal variability means that living year-round in a popular tourist destination can be more expensive than in an inland village.

Personal lifestyle choices also directly impact the budget. Individuals who prioritize cooking at home and utilizing local markets for groceries will likely spend less on food than those who frequently dine out. Relying on public transportation for daily commuting is more economical than owning a private vehicle. The frequency of leisure activities, travel within the island, and participation in paid attractions also contribute to overall expenditure.

An individual’s income source and level determine the perceived affordability of living in Sardinia. While the cost of living in Sardinia is less expensive than the average for Italy, the median after-tax salary on the island is also lower, which can affect purchasing power. Remote workers with external income streams may find Sardinia more affordable than those relying on local employment opportunities. Assessing one’s personal financial situation relative to the local economic landscape is important for understanding the island’s true affordability.