Milan student housing rent dispute underscores Italy's stable room prices

The Green party in Milan has demanded an urgent overhaul of the criteria governing university accommodation after criticism that the new student residence at Scalo Romana, run by developer Coima, receives multiple streams of public funding yet charges high rents. Councilor Francesca Cucchiara called for a public hearing, noting that rooms can cost up to €840 per month (VAT included) despite subsidies from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti and the Ministry of University and Research. Coima counters that the rate submitted to the ministry is €765 per month (excluding VAT) and that overall prices are within approved parameters.

At the European level, the International Rent Index shows a 4.6% average decline in student room rents in Q2 2026, while in Italy rents have remained largely stable. Average room rents are €620 in Bologna, €630 in Rome, €620 in Milan, €600 in Florence, while Turin shows a modest 3.8% increase to €540. Prices for studio apartments vary more sharply, with notable declines in Rome (‑17.9%) and rises in Turin (+15.3%).