Italy consumer debt reaches 178 billion euros amid inflation

According to reports from the CGIA di Mestre, consumer credit for Italian families has reached approximately 178 billion euros in 2025, marking a 62% increase over the last nine years. This figure excludes mortgages, which are categorized as long-term investments; when including mortgages, the total debt rises to 612.6 billion euros.

Analysts suggest this rising indebtedness is driven by two main factors: the need for immediate liquidity to cover unexpected expenses or monthly living costs, and the purchase of durable goods like cars and appliances. The erosion of purchasing power due to inflation, coupled with stagnant wages and pensions, has forced many families, particularly the middle class, to rely on credit to maintain their standard of living.

Regional data shows varying levels of exposure, with Umbria leading in consumer debt per household. Meanwhile, separate research by Intesa Sanpaolo and Centro Einaudi indicates that while 56% of Italians continue to save, there is a growing aversion to risk due to geopolitical and economic uncertainty, with the average savings rate holding at 11.9% of disposable income.