Housing costs in Lombardy hinder labor market and business growth

High housing costs in Lombardy, particularly around Milan, are creating structural obstacles for the labor market and business competitiveness. Research conducted by Assolombarda in collaboration with ADAPT and Patrigest indicates that the disproportionate cost of rent relative to wages is a primary driver of occupational mismatch.

In Milan, average rental costs are 1.6 times higher than the average for provincial capitals, while costs in the Milanese hinterland and Brianza exceed the provincial average by 1.2 to 1.3 times. For many workers, particularly those earning between 1,000 and 2,000 euros net per month, these expenses drastically reduce disposable income, making it difficult to settle in economically intensive areas.

A survey of 1,200 young people aged 18 to 45 in the Milan, Monza, Brianza, Lodi, and Pavia areas reveals that 47% of respondents say housing availability and costs directly impact their study and work decisions. Approximately 39% of young people have renounced at least one job offer or training opportunity due to distance, commuting complexities, or the inability to find sustainable housing. On average, housing expenses consume 38% of monthly income.