Amsterdam vs Milan: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Amsterdam (Netherlands) and Milan (Italy) reveals a cost-of-living index of 82.9 in Amsterdam versus 75.8 in Milan (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Milan is 8.6% more affordable than Amsterdam.

Metrological Indicator Amsterdam (Netherlands) Milan (Italy)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 82.9 75.8
Rent Index 61.7 52.4
Groceries Index 66.3 65.1
Restaurant Price Index 77.7 72.9
Local Purchasing Power Index 102.1 83.1
1-Bed Apartment in City Center €1,924 €1,560
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal €18.72 €20.80
Monthly Public Transit Pass €98.80 €40.56
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) €218.40 €213.20
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 68.5/100 · Health 81.5/100 Safety 46.2/100 · Health 74.8/100

Is Amsterdam more expensive than Milan?

Amsterdam has a higher overall cost-of-living index (82.9) compared to Milan (75.8), representing an index differential of 7.1 points (8.6% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Amsterdam and Milan?

In Amsterdam, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages €1,924/month (Rent Index: 61.7), whereas in Milan it averages €1,560/month (Rent Index: 52.4).

→ Amsterdam Full Cost Report → Milan Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Amsterdam

The cost of living in Amsterdam, Netherlands is indexed at 82.9 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 Amsterdam are defined by a Rent Index of 61.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,924 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 Amsterdam, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €18.72, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €4.68. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €98.80, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €218.40 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Amsterdam secures a safety index rating of 68.5/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 82.4/100, healthcare standard scores 81.5/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 94.1 Mbps.

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

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Milan

The cost of living in Milan, Italy is indexed at 75.8 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 Milan are defined by a Rent Index of 52.4. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,560 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 Milan, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €20.80, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €1.87. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €40.56, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €213.20 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Milan secures a safety index rating of 46.2/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 85.4/100, healthcare standard scores 74.8/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 92.5 Mbps.

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