Data updated Nov 13, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 68)
La Spezia sits on the Ligurian coast, 10 meters above sea level, with a Mediterranean climate that brings warm, dry summers from June to September and mild, wet winters from November through February. The city's 92,000 residents include a medium-sized expat community, with popular neighborhoods such as Centro Storico, Mazzetta, and La Chiappa drawing newcomers for their mix of historic charm and everyday convenience.
Living costs here are notably lower than in major Italian cities. A single adult's monthly expenses excluding rent average $1,020, while a family of four spends about $3,400 per month before housing. Rent for a one-bedroom in the city center runs $756 per month, dropping to $658 outside the center; a three-bedroom in the center costs $1,232, and outside the center it's $989. Utilities add $186 monthly, internet is $28, and a mobile phone plan costs just $6. A monthly public transport pass is $37, a gym membership is $38, an inexpensive restaurant meal is $17 per person, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is $78, and a cappuccino is $2. The average monthly net salary locally is $1,722, and the cost of living index sits at 64 out of 100 (New York City = 100).
Safety is solid, with a safety index of 68 out of 100 and a crime index of 32 out of 100 (lower is safer). Healthcare quality is rated as good, and English proficiency is common in tourist areas, making daily life manageable for newcomers still learning Italian.
For those looking to stay long-term, Italy offers two visa pathways. The Italy Elective Residence Visa requires a minimum monthly income of $2,895, while the Italy Digital Nomad Visa requires $2,615 per month. Getting to La Spezia is straightforward via major transport hubs, and the city suits budget-conscious expats, digital nomads, and retirees alike. Budget-tier living for a single adult (including rent) totals $867 per month, mid-range comes to $1,341, and comfortable living runs $1,634. With an overall expat score of 68 out of 100, a FIRE score of 67, a retiree score of 57, and a digital nomad score of 70, La Spezia offers a practical, affordable base on the Italian Riviera.
Get a free moving cost estimate for moving to La Spezia, Italy. Takes 10 seconds.
How much are you shipping?
When are you moving?
Powered by Sirelo. Free quotes from international movers.
La Spezia at the budget tier comes to about $1,179 a month for one adult, with $658 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $173 on groceries, $67.00 on dining out, $24.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $220 on utilities and connectivity and $37.00 on transport.
Rent
$658/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$173/mo
75% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$67.00/mo
4 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$24.00/mo
1 cinema trip, 8 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$220/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$37.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
La Spezia at the mid-range tier comes to about $1,393 a month for one adult, with $658 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $230 on groceries, $168 on dining out, $80.00 on entertainment and lifestyle, $220 on utilities and connectivity and $37.00 on transport.
Rent
$658/mo
1BR outside the centre
Groceries
$230/mo
Staples basket scaled to a full month
Dining out
$168/mo
10 inexpensive meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$80.00/mo
gym, 2 cinema trips, 12 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$220/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$37.00/mo
Monthly pass
Budgets (excl. rent)
Excludes rent. The total above is all-in, rent included.
La Spezia at the comfortable tier comes to about $1,785 a month for one adult, with $756 of that going to rent. Beyond rent the estimate covers $322 on groceries, $336 on dining out, $114 on entertainment and lifestyle, $220 on utilities and connectivity and $37.00 on transport.
Rent
$756/mo
1BR in the centre
Groceries
$322/mo
140% of mid-range grocery spend
Dining out
$336/mo
6 inexpensive meals + 6 mid-range meals
Entertainment & lifestyle
$114/mo
gym, 4 cinema trips, 20 cappuccinos
Utilities & connectivity
$220/mo
utilities, mobile, internet
Transport
$37.00/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 $755.82/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 La Spezia's cost of living compares with Cattolica Eraclea
(Higher is safer)
(Lower is safer)
(Higher is better)
La Spezia is a genuinely safe coastal city for expats, with a Numbeo Safety Index of 68 reflecting low violent crime and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Petty theft and pickpocketing occur occasionally in crowded areas and the train station, but serious crime is rare. The main practical concerns are typical Italian bureaucratic hassles rather than safety threats. Avoid isolated areas after dark and use standard urban precautions, but overall this is a secure, welcoming choice for remote workers and retirees seeking a quieter Italian lifestyle away from major tourist crowds.
See how La Spezia's healthcare compares with Cattolica Eraclea
La Spezia has a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers (June-September) and mild, wet winters (November-February), making it ideal for those seeking coastal charm without extreme temperatures.
Indices last read Nov 13, 2026.
La Spezia features moderate coworking resources and picturesque coastal scenery.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Talent Garden Sarzana | While technically in Sarzana (a short train ride from La Spezia), Talent Garden is a well-known coworking brand with a strong community. It offers modern facilities, networking opportunities, and a professional environment suitable for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a structured workspace. |
| Regus La Spezia | Regus offers a reliable and professional coworking environment in La Spezia. Located centrally, it provides standard amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and administrative support, making it a convenient option for expats needing a no-fuss workspace. |
| Coworking 5 Terre | Located in the heart of La Spezia, Coworking 5 Terre offers a friendly and collaborative atmosphere. It's a smaller, independent space that caters to freelancers and remote workers, providing a more personalized experience and a chance to connect with the local community. |
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 La Spezia 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 La Spezia? Nomad health insurance covers you across borders, month to month.
See nomad insuranceWe may earn a commission at no cost to you.
See how La Spezia's digital nomad life compares with Cattolica Eraclea
As a gateway to Cinque Terre, La Spezia has a transient expat and tourist population, but a growing permanent international community.
Areas of La Spezia 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.
Bustling, historic, tourist-centric
The heart of La Spezia, filled with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Very walkable, but can be noisy and crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Expect higher prices due to its popularity.
Elegant, residential, well-connected
A more upscale residential area with wide streets and grand buildings. Close to the train station and ferry terminal, making it ideal for exploring the region. Generally quieter than the Centro Storico, but still offers easy access to amenities.
Central, lively, convenient location
Centered around the main square, this area offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. Excellent transport links and close to shops and services. Can be busy and noisy, but a good option for those who want to be in the heart of the action.
Residential, quiet, local feel
A more residential area located slightly outside the city center. Offers a more authentic Italian experience, but requires a car or reliance on public transport to reach the main attractions. Good for those seeking a quieter lifestyle and lower rents.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $756/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 La Spezia 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.