Living in the heart of Florence is the dream of many. And it is not difficult to understand why: every corner of the historic center tells centuries of history, art and culture. Walking through the cobblestone streets, catching glimpses hidden among Renaissance palaces, being a stone’s throw from masterpieces such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio or the Uffizi Gallery-all these are part of the unique experience of living in the center. But how much does it really cost to realize this dream?
Charm comes at a price: property values in the historic center
The historic center of Florence is one of the most coveted areas in Italy. We are talking about an urban heritage that is also a UNESCO site, attracting millions of tourists and buyers from all over the world every year. This strong demand, combined with a naturally limited supply-because historic properties are not built from scratch-has contributed to keeping purchase and rental prices at very high levels.
According to data updated to the first half of 2025, buying an apartment in the historic center costs on average between 5,000 and 7,500 euros per square meter, with peaks exceeding even 10,000 euros in the most exclusive areas such as Piazza della Signoria, Via de’ Tornabuoni or Lungarno Acciaiuoli. There are many factors that affect the price: the state of preservation of the property, the presence of an elevator in period buildings, the panoramic view of symbolic monuments, the floor, the brightness, but also the presence of original architectural elements such as frescoes, coffered ceilings or antique terracotta floors.
Renting in downtown Florence: temporary solution, high costs
The rental market also reflects this scenario. A house in the historic center, intended for residential use, can have a monthly rent starting at around 1,200 euros for a modest two-bedroom apartment, rising to more than 3,000 euros for larger or luxury renovated apartments. Valuable properties intended for short-term rental for tourists represent yet another segment, with attractive returns but also with constantly changing regulations. For a professional or a young couple, choosing to live downtown can be a lifestyle choice even before being a rational investment.
Who lives downtown: new residents, investors, and nostalgics
The historic center of Florence is not just a destination for tourists: it is inhabited by a diverse community. There are those who have inherited property and continue to live it as a family home, those who have bought to rent on a short-term basis and take advantage of the huge flow of tourists, and those who have returned to the city after years living abroad. More and more foreigners-particularly Americans, British, and Germans-are interested in buying in central Florence, attracted by the quality of life, the beauty of the setting, and the possibility of having a second home of international value.
Living downtown: between beauty and compromise
Living in the historic center of Florence means being immersed in beauty, but it also involves some compromises. Limited traffic can be a limitation for car owners, as can the absence of parking spaces. The small size of properties, architectural constraints that prevent structural changes, or the presence of narrow staircases and absence of elevators in many old buildings are elements to take into account.
On the other hand, those who choose the center do so out of love: love for history, for culture, for authenticity. For the chance to wake up and see Brunelleschi’s Dome from the window or have breakfast near Santa Croce. For those who work in the world of art, fashion or culture, living in the center also represents added professional value.
Is it worth buying in downtown Florence in 2025?
Buying in the historic center is a choice that must be well thought out. Prices are among the highest in the city, but historically they have held up well even in times of crisis. Florence, unlike other Italian cities, has strong and steady international demand, which tends to keep the value of the most central properties stable. In addition, interest in fine properties from foreign investors shows no signs of waning. This ensures that even in 2025 the historic center will remain one of the safest areas for those seeking a safe haven asset in bricks and mortar.
Today’s buyers can count on a vibrant but also selective market: it takes an experienced eye to recognize real opportunities and to assess all the aspects-legal, fiscal, architectural-that a downtown purchase entails.
Need help? Ideas & Real Estate knows downtown like no other
Navigating the market in the historic center of Florence requires specific skills. Idee & Immobili has been working for years in the heart of the city, supporting clients in identifying the most interesting properties, assessing the real value of the property and managing all phases, from negotiation to the deed. If you are thinking of buying or selling a home in the center of Florence, relying on someone who really knows every street, every building and every detail can make all the difference.
