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What it's actually like here
Craving an authentic Italian experience that won't totally drain your digital nomad bank account? This Emilia-Romagna gem might just be your sweet spot. While not the cheapest in Europe, €950 for a central 1-bedroom or €700 outside is genuinely affordable for Italy. Factor in €280 for groceries and cheap eats at €13, and your budget breathes easier. Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves without a huge ex-pat bubble (community is small) and appreciate fantastic food over constant networking. Internet at 150 Mbps is solid, and with high safety (78) and walkability (80), daily life is a breeze. The caveat? English proficiency is medium, so be prepared to dust off your Italian phrases – it's part of the charm, but can be a hurdle initially.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Bologna as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Bologna averages around $950 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 68 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Bologna safe for digital nomads?+
Bologna scores 78/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most nomad-friendly neighbourhoods feel comfortable to walk in day and night.
How fast is the internet in Bologna?+
Headline average internet speed in Bologna is around 150 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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