City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs Rome — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Rome
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 48.6 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Rome.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | Rome | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $832 | +$74 |
| Groceries | $171 | $226 | $55 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $148 | $12 |
| Transportation | $46 | $25 | +$21 |
| Utilities | $105 | $145 | $40 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $124 | +$12 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
Rome equivalent
$1,000
per month
Only $1,000/mo in Rome matches $1,500/mo in London — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in Rome on $1,500/month?
In Rome, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $832 rent, $226 groceries, $148 dining.
Is London or Rome cheaper?
Rome is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs Rome 48.6 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in Rome?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$1,000/mo in Rome using COL adjustment.