English Whether you’re from the other side of the world or not, you’ve almost certainly heard of Como. A city that attracts tourists from around the globe every year, as well as celebrities and influential figures who choose to buy homes here.
On one hand, you have the proximity to Milan and Switzerland. On the other, you can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle and a beautiful landscape, directly on the lake.
But the question is: what’s living in Como really like? Is it that off-limits destination or is it livable all year-round? To answer that, we’ve combined our data with insights from residents who’ve lived here for years.
Life in Como: What People Say
One thing residents definitely confirm is that living here feels a bit like being on vacation all year round: the landscapes, the amount of things to do and see in the area, the international atmosphere given by all these people coming from all over the world:
“After spending years in Milan, I decided to return to Como. I wanted somewhere close to nature, a smaller, more local atmosphere that felt peaceful but still had essential services. Como and its surroundings give me that constant ‘vacation feeling.’ Every weekend I’m out hiking in the mountains, and I find the food and traditions really fascinating. If you appreciate an international vibe, there are plenty of people who work in Switzerland and live in the area.”
According to some, certain areas are still accessible in terms of pricing, and having fast internet is definitely a plus if you work remotely and want to live somewhere peaceful:
“Contrary to what many people say, I don’t think you need a lakeside villa and loads of money to have a high quality of life here. There are so many different towns very close to Como that overlook the lake. Plus, internet is fast and the views are incredible, so it’s perfect if you work remotely.”
Transport and Connectivity in Como
Como is located in an excellent position. In fact, it’s just 20 minutes by car from Chiasso (in Switzerland) and 45 from Milan, which makes it a great option if you want to live somewhere quieter while working in either of these areas:
“Geographically speaking, it’s in a super strategic location. We’re close to Milan and Switzerland, which means you can consider working there, where salaries are much higher, and living here“
But most importantly, it’s 40 minutes from the largest airport in northern Italy, Milan Malpensa. This means that for any destination, whether in Europe or beyond, you’re “covered”.
Same goes for trains – the city is well connected. In 30 minutes to an hour max, you can reach Lugano, Milan, and Lecco, while Venice and Rome are just over 3 hours away.
“There are two train stations connecting to Milan, there’s the funicular that takes you up to Brunate where you get a beautiful view, the Teatro Sociale is very active with events, the lakefront promenade is spectacular. Yes, there’s traffic on weekends like in any city center, but there are several parking areas, plenty of cafés in the squares, and good restaurants with all types of cuisine. And you’re close to Switzerland.”
Where to Live in Como: Housing & Cost of Living
For all the things we can say about it, Como remains a very expensive city, especially when it comes to real estate, which has gone up 10% compared to last year. In fact, a 70m2 apartment in the center can cost you around €330,000 – a price that doesn’t always include a parking space (which is essential, considering the influx of tourists throughout the year).
However, if you’re flexible and consider nearby options, slightly outside the center, prices drop significantly:
| Area | Sale Price (€ /m²) | Avg. 70 m² Home (€) | Rent Price (€ /m²) | Avg. 70 m² Home (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centre | ~€4,705 | ~€330,000 | ~€17 | ~€1,200 |
| Civiglio, Camnago Volta, Garzola | ~€2,390 | ~€168,000 | ~€11 | ~€760 |
| Lora, Como Sole | ~€2,310 | ~€162,000 | ~€14 | ~€955 |
| Borghi, San Martino | ~€3,460 | ~€242,000 | ~€13 | ~€930 |
| Albate, Trecallo | ~€2,010 | ~€141,000 | ~€12 | ~€870 |
| Breccia, Camerlata, Rebbio, Prestino | ~€1,945 | ~€136,000 | ~€14 | ~€980 |
| Bignanico, Villa Olmo, Villa Aprica | ~€4,640 | ~€325,000 | ~€16 | ~€1,100 |
| Sagnino, Monte Olimpino, Tavernola | ~€2,230 | ~€156,000 | ~€14 | ~€960 |
| Prudenziana, Torno | ~€4,070 | ~€285,000 | ~€15 | ~€1,040 |
Data elaborated from Immobiliare.it
In particular, for those looking to balance cost with convenience, among the most popular areas are Albate and Trecallo (south of Como): two neighborhoods close to the center, with all essential services but much more affordable. Or alternatively, Camerlata:
“Another very interesting neighborhood is Camerlata, near the historic center. It’s a residential area with apartments of various types and price ranges. It’s well-connected and has good services…it’s a good compromise to not get too far from the center but avoid paying too high a rent.”
If instead you’re planning to work in Switzerland and want to stay close to the border, then Maslianico can also be an option: very affordable, surrounded by greenery and definitely peaceful. Other nearby towns recommended by residents are Cernobbio or Canzo:
“If you’re also considering options outside Como but close to the lake, Cernobbio could be a good idea. I love hiking, running, playing tennis, and this area has it all. Outdoor activities, elegance, beauty, history… everything that inspires me. That’s why Lake Como turned out to be such a great choice for me. Otherwise, if you want something in between Como and Lecco, there’s Canzo. It’s small but has everything you need, including a train that takes you straight to Milano Cadorna, right in the city center.”
Challenges of Living in Como
The most common complaints from residents living here are three: costs, congestion, and crowds. In fact, while traffic and tourist flow are problems you can manage by choosing to live slightly outside the center, costs in the area are generally much higher compared to the average in other Italian regions, even those near lakes:
“Como is a beautiful city, very peaceful and situated in an excellent position. But it’s very expensive, always jammed with traffic, and full of tourists from April to October“
Another consideration, especially for younger residents, is nightlife. While during the day and on weekends there are countless options for day trips, the offering is definitely lacking for those looking for lots of events:
“Here, young people under 25 complain because there isn’t much nightlife, so they’re forced to go to Milan. However, it always depends on your age and preferences – for some, this could actually be a positive aspect.“
Como by the Numbers: Key Data
- Quality of Life: Sufficient (63/100) – taking into account air quality, amenities, walkability, population, and environmental risks
- Air Quality: Good (80/100)
- Safety: Moderate to Low Earthquake Risk
- Healthcare: Ospedale Generale Valduce (3 min.)
- Rent: ~€760 – €1200 (70 m²)
- Transport: Good, both for trains and airports.
- Airport: Malpensa, Milan (29 min.), Linate, Milan (38 min.), Orio al Serio, Bergamo (48 min.)
- Train Stations: Stazione di Como Borghi (3 min), Stazione di Como Lago (5 min), Stazione di Como Camerlata (5 min.)
For more detailed information about Como and its services and infrastructure, visit the Magic Towns city profile.
Is Como Right for You?
- You want to live near a lake, while still being close to bigger cities and airports
- You work remotely or are willing to commute to Milan or Switzerland
- You don’t mind tourist crowds during peak season
- You have a comfortable budget for housing costs
❌ Think twice if:
- You’re just looking for a place near the lake and don’t have a big budget – in that case, you should consider other options (like near Lake Orta, for example) or move to the smaller towns nearby
- You’re not a fan of tourist places – expect traffic and parking problems
- You’re young and are looking for a lively place, full of events, especially at night
Final Thoughts
Como is undeniably beautiful, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re drawn to the idea of living near a lake, while being super close to both Milan and Switzerland, and you have the budget to support it, it can be an incredible place to live. The scenery is stunning, the international vibe is real, and the proximity to major cities and airports makes it surprisingly practical.
That said, you need to be realistic about what you’re getting into. It’s expensive – not just housing, but everyday costs too. Tourist crowds are part of the deal from spring through fall, and if you’re hoping for a vibrant nightlife or tons of cultural events, you’ll probably find yourself heading to Milan pretty regularly.
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