Rome vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
Choosing between the historic grandeur of Rome and the bustling energy of Dhaka involves navigating two polar opposite economic realities. Rome, the capital of Italy, offers a high European standard of living with costs to match, while Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of the most affordable megacities in the world. On average, living in Rome requires a significantly larger budget, particularly regarding housing and services, whereas Dhaka offers a remarkably low cost of entry for basic necessities and local goods.
Is Rome more expensive than Dhaka?
Yes, Rome is substantially more expensive than Dhaka across almost every metric. When standardized in USD, consumer prices in Rome are approximately 140% higher than in Dhaka. When including rent, the cost of living in Rome is nearly 200% higher. While the local purchasing power in Rome is roughly 300% higher due to higher average wages, an individual earning a remote Western salary will find their lifestyle exponentially more subsidized in Dhaka, where the US dollar carries immense value for local services and food.
Housing and Rent in Rome vs Dhaka
The housing market represents the largest price gap between the two cities. A one-bedroom apartment in central Rome typically rents for $1,100 to $1,500 USD per month. In contrast, a similar apartment in a secure, expat-friendly neighborhood in Dhaka (such as Gulshan or Banani) costs between $250 and $450 USD. Overall, rent in Rome is estimated to be 300% to 400% higher than in Dhaka. Property prices per square meter in Rome's city center are also vastly higher, often exceeding $8,000 USD, compared to approximately $1,200 USD in Dhaka.
Food and Dining Costs
Dining out in Rome is a culinary delight but can be pricey, with a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costing around $70 USD. In Dhaka, a comparable meal at a high-end local restaurant costs about $20 USD. Grocery shopping also shows significant variance; basic items like milk, bread, and eggs are 60% to 90% more expensive in Rome. However, Dhaka residents may pay a premium for imported Western goods, which can sometimes approach European price levels due to import duties.
Transportation: Public Transit and Fuel
Transportation in Rome is dominated by a mix of metro, buses, and trams, with a monthly pass costing roughly $38 USD. Dhaka relies on a dense network of rickshaws, buses, and increasingly, the new Metro Rail; a monthly commute generally costs less than $15 USD. Gasoline is significantly more expensive in Italy due to high taxes, often priced at over $1.90 USD per liter, whereas in Bangladesh, it is regulated and significantly cheaper. However, traffic congestion in Dhaka is among the most severe globally, often making 'time' a hidden cost of transport.
Lifestyle, Utilities, and Entertainment
Utilities for an 85m2 apartment (electricity, heating, water, garbage) in Rome average $210 USD per month, while in Dhaka, they typically range between $50 and $80 USD. Internet services are surprisingly comparable in price, though Rome generally offers higher stability. For leisure, a gym membership in Rome costs about $55 USD monthly, compared to $25 USD in Dhaka. A cinema ticket in Rome is roughly $11 USD, while in Dhaka, it is approximately $5 USD.
How to get from Rome to Dhaka
There are currently no direct flights between Rome (FCO) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers usually opt for one-stop connections through major Middle Eastern hubs. Popular carriers include Qatar Airways via Doha, Emirates via Dubai, and Turkish Airlines via Istanbul. The total travel time typically ranges from 12 to 17 hours depending on the layover duration.
The Verdict: Rome or Dhaka?
The choice between Rome and Dhaka depends entirely on your financial priorities and lifestyle preferences. For digital nomads and retirees looking to stretch a modest budget to its absolute limit, Dhaka offers an incredibly low cost of living. However, Rome remains the preferred choice for those who prioritize infrastructure, healthcare, and a high quality of public life, provided they have the budget to support it. Families will find Rome's amenities superior, while solo adventurers might find Dhaka's low costs and vibrant culture a compelling trade-off.
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