Data updated Nov 13, 2026
Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 79)
Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, sits on the island's southern coast at an elevation of 6 meters above sea level, with a Mediterranean climate that brings hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city's population of 147 thousand creates a compact, walkable urban environment. Expats tend to settle in the historic neighborhoods of Castello, Stampace, and Marina, each offering a distinct character: Castello perches on a hill with panoramic views, Stampace blends local life with historic sites, and Marina hugs the port with a lively restaurant scene.
Living costs in Cagliari are notably lower than in major Italian cities. A single adult's monthly expenses excluding rent run about $975, while a family of four spends roughly $3,575 per month on the same. Rents are moderate: a one-bedroom in the city center averages $855 per month, dropping to $626 outside the center; a three-bedroom in the center goes for $1,393, or $1,026 outside. Utilities add $157 monthly, internet costs $30, and a mobile phone plan is just $9. A monthly public transport pass is $39, a gym membership is $50, an inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant runs $84, and a cappuccino is $2. The average monthly net salary locally is $1,783, which aligns with the cost of living index of 60 out of 100 (New York City = 100).
Cagliari scores well on safety, with a safety index of 80 out of 100 and a crime index of 20 out of 100 (lower is safer). Healthcare quality is rated as excellent, and the air quality index is 42 (lower is better), making the city a comfortable place to live. English is common in tourist areas, though the expat community remains small.
For those looking to move, Italy offers two specific visa programs. The Italy Elective Residence Visa requires a minimum monthly income of $2,895, while the Italy Digital Nomad Visa sets the threshold at $2,615 per month. The nearest airport is CAG (Cagliari Elmas Airport), just 5 kilometers from the city center. Cagliari suits retirees (retiree score: 77/100), digital nomads (digital nomad score: 72/100), and those pursuing financial independence (FIRE score: 81/100), with an overall expat score of 79 out of 100.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to Cagliari, Italy. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
Cagliari at the budget tier comes to about $1,159 a month for one adult, with $626 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $180 on groceries, $90.00 on dining out, $28.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $196 on utilities and connectivity and $39.00 on transport.
Rent
$626/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$180/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$90.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$28.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$196/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$39.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Cagliari at the mid-range tier comes to about $1,420 a month for one adult, with $626 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $241 on groceries, $224 on dining out, $94.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $196 on utilities and connectivity and $39.00 on transport.
Rent
$626/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$241/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$224/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$94.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$196/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$39.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Cagliari at the comfortable tier comes to about $1,946 a month for one adult, with $855 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $337 on groceries, $386 on dining out, $133 on entertainment and lifestyle, $196 on utilities and connectivity and $39.00 on transport.
Rent
$855/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$337/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$386/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$133/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$196/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$39.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
Estimates for one adult, built from this city's average prices and the usage shown for each tier. Your spending will differ with how often you eat out and where you live.
A 1BR in the center runs about $854.73/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
See low-fee transfersWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Cagliari's cost of living compares with Cattolica Eraclea
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
(Higher is better)
Cagliari is genuinely safe for expats, with low violent crime and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded areas and public transport, particularly around the port and central station—standard precautions suffice. Avoid isolated areas after dark, though serious crime targeting foreigners is rare. The city feels secure for daily life, with friendly locals and established expat communities. No significant geopolitical concerns. Overall, a solid choice for remote workers and retirees seeking safety with authentic Italian living.
Cagliari has a safety index of 62.83/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
Compare travel insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Cagliari's healthcare compares with Cattolica Eraclea
Cagliari offers a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (June-September) and mild, wet winters (November-February), ideal for sun-seekers but requiring summer heat management.
Indices last read Nov 13, 2026.
Cagliari's scenic beauty and friendly locals make it an attractive spot for nomads.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Coworking Sardinia | Located at 21 Via Calamattia, Cagliari. |
| Hub/Spoke | Located at 235 Via Roma, Cagliari. |
| Open Campus | |
| The Net Value | Located at 15 Viale La Plaia, Cagliari. Hours: Mo-Fr 08:00-20:00. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
Planning to live in Cagliari long-term? Italy Digital Nomad Visa lets remote workers live legally with a minimum income of $2,615/month.
View full requirements →Working remotely from Cagliari? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how Cagliari's digital nomad life compares with Cattolica Eraclea
The capital of Sardinia offers a vibrant coastal life and a slow pace that attracts a niche group of digital nomads and retirees.
Areas of Cagliari that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Historic, lively, central district
One of Cagliari's four historic districts, Stampace is known for its artisan workshops, traditional restaurants, and the annual Sant'Efisio festival. It's centrally located and walkable, making it easy to explore the city. However, it can be noisy and crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
Portside, bustling, tourist-centric
Located near the port, Marina is a vibrant area with a mix of shops, restaurants, and bars catering to tourists. It's well-connected to public transportation and offers easy access to the sea. Expect higher prices and more tourist crowds compared to other neighborhoods; noise can be an issue.
Historic, panoramic, upscale residential
Perched atop a hill, Castello is the oldest part of Cagliari, offering stunning views and historical landmarks. It's a quieter, more residential area with upscale apartments and limited traffic. While charming, accessibility can be a challenge due to the steep streets, and prices are generally higher.
Charming, residential, local atmosphere
Villanova is a charming residential neighborhood with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and a more local feel. It's less touristy than Marina or Stampace, offering a more authentic Italian experience. While walkable, English is less widely spoken here, requiring some Italian language skills.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $855/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
Many long-stay visas require proof of health insurance. Compare international health plans before you apply.
Compare health insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
Earning over $2,615/mo? You may qualify for a Italy visa.
Answer 11 questions and get a personalized match in under 2 minutes.
Click any question to expand the answer.
Cost-of-living and visa updates for Cagliari and the rest of Italy. Free with RA Postcards.
By submitting your email address, you will receive a free subscription to RA Postcards and special offers from Rewire Abroad and our affiliates. You can unsubscribe at any time, and we encourage you to read more about our Privacy Policy.