If you’re dreaming of moving to Sardinia, you’ve probably already pictured yourself sipping an espresso on a sunny terrace or diving into turquoise waters after a leisurely lunch. But what does it actually cost to live this Mediterranean dream? Let’s break it down so you can budget accordingly—and maybe start packing those bags.
Housing Costs
The first big hurdle in Sardinia is housing. If you’re renting, expect to pay around €500 to €1000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on location. In cities like Cagliari or Olbia, you’re looking at the higher end of that spectrum, while smaller towns and inland villages are much more affordable. If you’re planning to live near the beach, be ready to pay a bit more.
Utilities, including electricity, water, and garbage collection, typically cost around €100 to €150 per month. Internet will add another €25 to €40, depending on your plan.
If you’re looking to buy, property prices vary widely. In popular tourist areas like Costa Smeralda, prices can be sky-high. But in less touristy areas, you can still find charming homes for much less. Generally, prices range from €1,500 to €3,000 per square meter.
Food
Ah, the food. One of the greatest joys of living in Sardinia is the sheer abundance of fresh, local produce, seafood, and cheeses. But how much will it cost to fill your stomach?
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Groceries: Generally, the cost of groceries in Sardinia is pretty standard for Italy. Expect to pay around €250 to €350 per month for a single person’s grocery bill if you stick to the basics: pasta, fresh fruit and veggies, cheese, and wine (yes, wine is a basic). For a couple or family, this might go up to €500 to €700 per month, depending on your eating habits. Pro tip: Buy local, and you’ll save a lot—Sardinian cheeses, meats, and bread are incredibly tasty and won’t break the bank.
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Dining Out: Eating out in Sardinia is a delight, but it can vary quite a bit depending on where you are and what you’re eating. In Cagliari, for example, a lunch bill can range from €25 to €60 per person. It all depends on what you’re ordering and what you’re drinking. If you’re sticking to a simple plate of pasta, expect to pay around €12. Meat dishes will usually set you back around €15, while fish can cost anywhere from €18 for a tasting of appetizers to much higher prices for a full meal. Of course, if you’re indulging in a fancy seafood platter, wine, and dessert, your bill could quickly climb toward the €60 to €80 range.
While dining out is definitely affordable by European standards, if you stick to local dishes and smaller, family-run restaurants, you’ll often pay less than you would in a touristy area. The best part? Sardinian food is always fresh, flavorful, and full of personality—whether you’re eating in a seaside restaurant in Cagliari or a quiet village trattoria. Pro tip: check the reviews on your favourite search engine and look at the photos of the food before you reserve a table somewhere.
Transportation
Public transportation in Sardinia is fairly reliable, but it’s no Milan metro. A monthly bus pass in Cagliari costs around €35. If you’re planning to drive, petrol prices are about €1.60 to €2.00 per liter, and car insurance varies widely but is generally around €600 to €1500 per year.
If you’re living in a rural area, owning a car is almost essential as public transport options thin out dramatically the farther you get from the main cities.
Entertainment and Leisure
Sardinia is full of free and beautiful things to do—beaches, hikes, and festivals. If you’re into fitness, a gym membership will cost you about €40 to €60 per month. A night out at the cinema is around €8, and a glass of wine at a local bar will set you back about €5 (but who is ordering only one glas?!).
Healthcare Costs
Good news for expats: Italy has a public healthcare system that covers most medical needs. If you’re a resident, you can access it for free or for a minimal cost. But you pay for every visit a fee called “ticket” (generally round about 30-50 euros, depending on what needs to be done). A big minus of the public system – you will need a lot of patience and waiting time is often counted in month. Private health insurance is also available if you want faster service and access to private clinics, costing around €1000 to €1500 per year.
The Bottom Line
Living in Sardinia is certainly more affordable than living in many major European cities, but you’ll still need to budget wisely, especially if you’re planning to live in popular areas. But with that stunning coastline and laid-back lifestyle, many would say it’s worth every euro.
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