Dubai vs Rome: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Dubai (United Arab Emirates) and Rome (Italy) reveals a cost-of-living index of 72.7 in Dubai versus 64.5 in Rome (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Rome is 11.3% more affordable than Dubai.

Metrological Indicator Dubai (United Arab Emirates) Rome (Italy)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 72.7 64.5
Rent Index 64.1 39.3
Groceries Index 52.3 57
Restaurant Price Index 65.3 60.3
Local Purchasing Power Index 110.1 68.4
1-Bed Apartment in City Center AED 7,800 €1,144
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal AED 46.80 €15.60
Monthly Public Transit Pass AED 312.00 €36.40
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) AED 748.80 €182.00
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 83.6/100 · Health 76.5/100 Safety 48.9/100 · Health 72.1/100

Is Dubai more expensive than Rome?

Dubai has a higher overall cost-of-living index (72.7) compared to Rome (64.5), representing an index differential of 8.2 points (11.3% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Dubai and Rome?

In Dubai, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages AED 7,800/month (Rent Index: 64.1), whereas in Rome it averages €1,144/month (Rent Index: 39.3).

→ Dubai Full Cost Report → Rome Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Dubai

The cost of living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is indexed at 72.7 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Dubai are defined by a Rent Index of 64.1. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about AED 7,800 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Dubai, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages AED 46.80, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around AED 23.92. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately AED 312.00, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging AED 748.80 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Dubai secures a safety index rating of 83.6/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 42.1/100, healthcare standard scores 76.5/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 96.4 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: DUBAI-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Rome

The cost of living in Rome, Italy is indexed at 64.5 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Rome are defined by a Rent Index of 39.3. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,144 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Rome, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €15.60, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €1.56. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €36.40, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €182.00 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Rome secures a safety index rating of 48.9/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 91.2/100, healthcare standard scores 72.1/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 86.4 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: ROME-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED