Find the best rentals in Milan
Looking to move to Milan and start a fresh chapter? Check out apartments for rent in Milan. As Italy's financial powerhouse, Milan is a vibrant, multicultural city that draws people from all over the country and the world—all searching for the perfect place to rent in Milan as a launching pad for their new life.
Is renting in Milan expensive?
As the fashion and business capital of Italy, Milan certainly has higher rent prices, but there are still plenty of affordable options across various neighborhoods. You can find studios ranging from €900 to €1,300 per month in areas like Bicocca and Città Studi, while in central spots like Brera and Navigli, the average price for a one-bedroom apartment runs between €1,400 and €1,900 a month. At Spotahome, we make it easy to find verified, furnished apartments in Milan's best neighborhoods with transparent pricing and full guarantees, letting you compare options and book quality housing 100% online—completely safe from scams and fraud.
Milan, the capital of fashion
Milan stands out for far more than just being the economic heart of Italy. It’s also a global hub for fashion, art, and design. Take a stroll along the Navigli canals and spend time browsing local art galleries or listening to live music in one of the area’s many cozy jazz clubs. Heading out in the late afternoon? Drop by a local bar to experience the famous Milanese Apericena—for the price of a cocktail, you’ll get access to a rich buffet loaded with pizza, pasta, fried bites, piadinas, cold cuts, cheeses, and more. You’ll be spoilt for choice! And if you love international food, you'll find an incredible selection of Asian spots, from Japanese and Chinese to Vietnamese and Thai.
If you live and breathe design and fashion, Milan is truly the place to be. You can easily find furnished apartments for rent in Milan in gorgeous neighborhoods where modern style and classic historic architecture blend effortlessly.
Don’t miss Via Tortona—the undisputed home of high-fashion showrooms, design studios, and the iconic Fuorisalone. Make sure to also check out the Isola district, which transformed from a working-class neighborhood into one of Milan's most eclectic hotspots, packed with vintage boutiques, cutting-edge fashion shops, and bold architectural landmarks like the Bosco Verticale.
Milan is equally famous for its vibrant nightlife, which easily rivals any European capital. There’s something for every vibe: from exclusive nightclubs frequented by VIPs and models, to iconic live music and jazz venues, casual pubs, and fine-dining restaurants.
Why do people choose to live in Milan?
There are countless reasons why people move to Milan every single day. Some come simply to experience the energy of an Italian city for a few weeks, months, or even years.
For others, it’s all about diving into Milan’s irresistible culinary world. And trust us—the food here is incredible. In fact, Milan is home to some of the top chefs on the planet.
Another huge draw, especially for expats and international students, is the vast array of English-speaking education options—ranging from international universities to high schools and preschools.
On top of that, Milan boasts world-class healthcare facilities, along with plenty of wellness centers and spas scattered throughout the city.
Getting around is a breeze thanks to an efficient transit network of buses, trams, and metro lines. Even if you choose to live in a quieter suburban neighborhood, getting to the city center via public transport is quick and easy. You can also hop on the city's bike-sharing service to commute, burn calories, and stay fit all at once.
What are the best areas to rent in Milan?
Like any major city, average monthly rent in Milan varies depending on the neighborhood. Central districts come at a premium, whereas outer neighborhoods offer more budget-friendly housing. Finding the right type of place for your lifestyle is key to keeping your living expenses under control.
Here are our top recommendations:
1. NavigliLove nightlife and never want to miss a great party? Navigli is definitely the place for you. The atmosphere here is fantastic, especially after dark. But the lively nightlife is just part of the charm—Navigli is packed with incredible restaurants and features picturesque historic canals winding through the neighborhood.
You’ll also find plenty of local markets around Navigli for fresh groceries and everyday essentials at reasonable prices. As for rent? Housing in Navigli is surprisingly accessible.
2. San Donato MilaneseA major plus of San Donato Milanese is its wide selection of well-priced apartments. Getting around from San Donato is straightforward using the train or metro, which offers excellent connections and continues to expand.
What is the cost of living in Milan?
It mostly depends on where you decide to settle down. As you'd expect, living in the city center costs significantly more than living in the suburbs.
Since Milan isn't cheap, accommodation will take up a good chunk of your monthly budget. According to Spotahome data, a studio in the center averages around €1,354 per month, while full apartments hover close to €2,000.
Beyond rent, you'll have day-to-day expenses like coffee (€1.20), internet (€25/month), pizza (€5), local transit (€40/month for a public transport pass), clothing (around €60 on average), and so on. Naturally, these costs will be higher if you’re living with a partner or supporting a family.
What is the average rent in Milan?
Rent prices in Milan vary based on several key factors—location being the biggest, followed by the size and condition of the apartment.
Based on our database, the average cost to rent an apartment in Milan is around €1,999 per month. However, you can definitely find great places for much less. Looking a bit further out, you can find fully furnished one-bedroom apartments starting around €800, though average prices sit closer to €1,616. If you’re open to flatsharing, a room in a shared apartment goes for around €500 in outer areas and roughly €700 in more central locations.
Do you need a security deposit in Milan?
It depends on your landlord. While many property owners ask for a security deposit before move-in, others are more flexible.
Some landlords require a deposit equivalent to 3 months' rent, while others ask for less. Likewise, while most will require a formal lease agreement, some arrangements are more informal.
Ultimately, it comes down to the individual landlord's terms.
How do you find an apartment for rent in Milan?
There are a few ways to find a rental in Milan. Asking friends or coworkers for leads is a common starting point, though it isn't always the most reliable route.
To find a place quickly and securely, use a trusted property platform like Spotahome. It simplifies your search by matching verified rentals to your budget and desired amenities.
What documents do you need to rent in Milan?
Most landlords and real estate agents will ask for standard documentation before finalizing a rental. Typically, you'll need:
- A valid ID or passport.
- Proof of income, usually your last two pay stubs or bank statements.
- Social Security Number or Tax ID.
- Chamber of Commerce registration if you run a private business.
On your end, it’s a good idea to request the following documents from the landlord before signing:
- Floor plan of the building/apartment.
- Proof of property ownership (land registry record).
- The landlord’s Tax Identification Code (Codice Fiscale).
Information updated on October 16, 2026 - Reviewed by the Spotahome Editorial Team.