Rome local taxes rise as service quality faces criticism

Local taxation in Rome and the Lazio region has seen significant increases, sparking political criticism regarding the quality of public services. According to a dossier by UIL Lazio and Eures, the Tari waste tax per capita in Rome rose by 43.1% between 2019 and 2025, increasing from 197 euros to 281.90 euros. This places the capital fifth among Italian provincial capitals for per capita waste tax revenue.

Other local taxes have also risen. The Imu property tax per capita grew by 11.3% compared to 2019, while the municipal Irpef surcharge increased by 8.7% between 2019 and 2024. Reports indicate that the average local tax burden for a taxpayer in Rome and Lazio has reached approximately 2,073 euros per year, which is cited as the highest in Italy and roughly 570 euros above the national average.

Political figures, including Lega representative Fabrizio Santori, have challenged Mayor Roberto Gualtieri’s administration, arguing that the rising tax burden is not reflected in the quality of municipal services. Critics point to issues such as waste management inefficiencies, overflowing bins, and poor road maintenance as evidence of a disconnect between tax collection and service delivery.