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Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, offers a compelling combination of Mediterranean climate, rich history, and a relaxed pace of life that appeals to long-term residents, remote workers, and families alike. The city enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year and is flanked by the famous Poetto Beach, one of the longest urban beaches in Italy, stretching over 8 kilometres.

The historic centre is divided into five distinct quarters — Castello, Marina, Stampace, Villanova, and Poetto — each with its own character, from the medieval hilltop citadel of Castello to the lively restaurant scene of Marina. The University of Cagliari, founded in 1620, gives the city a vibrant academic and cultural life, with theatres, museums, and a busy calendar of local festivals.

Compared to Rome, Milan, or Florence, Cagliari offers significantly lower rental costs while maintaining good infrastructure, an international airport with direct connections to major European cities, and a well-developed public transport network operated by CTM. For those seeking a high quality of life at a manageable cost, Cagliari stands out as one of Italy's most liveable cities.

Cagliari's long-term rental market is shaped by its dual role as the administrative capital of Sardinia and a university city home to the University of Cagliari. Demand is driven by students, public sector workers, healthcare professionals at the AOU Cagliari university hospital, and a growing number of remote workers and international residents attracted by the city's quality of life.

The market is predominantly composed of private landlords, with agency-managed listings also widely available on platforms such as Idealista and Immobiliare.it. According to Rentola (2025), average rents across all property types stand at approximately 1,049 EUR/mois, with listings starting from around 315 EUR/mois for rooms in shared apartments. Demand tends to peak in September and October with the academic year, making summer the best window to search for competitive long-term rates.

The most sought-after neighbourhoods for long-term tenants are Stampace, Villanova, Marina, and Castello in the historic centre, as well as the Poetto seafront district. More affordable options are found in suburban areas such as Is Mirrionis, San Michele, Pirri, and Bonaria.

Cagliari remains one of the more affordable major cities in Italy for long-term rentals. The rental market offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly rooms in residential suburbs to well-appointed apartments in the historic quarters. For a comfortable one-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood, a realistic monthly budget of 700–900 EUR/mois is a solid benchmark. Adding utilities, internet, and the annual RAI TV licence (approximately 90 EUR/year, typically included in the electricity bill), a single person can expect total housing costs of around 850–1,100 EUR/mois. Families or those seeking more space in desirable areas like Poetto or Castello should budget upwards of 1,200 EUR/mois.

Rental prices in Cagliari vary significantly depending on the neighbourhood, property size, and furnishing level. According to Rentola (2025), the average monthly rent across all property types in Cagliari is approximately 1,049 EUR/mois, with entry-level listings starting around 315 EUR/mois for basic rooms or small studios in peripheral areas such as Is Mirrionis or Pirri.

For a furnished studio or one-bedroom apartment in a central neighbourhood like Stampace, Villanova, or Marina, expect to pay between 600 EUR/mois and 900 EUR/mois. Larger two-bedroom apartments in sought-after areas such as Poetto or Castello typically range from 900 EUR/mois to 1,400 EUR/mois. Premium or recently renovated properties in the historic centre can exceed 1,500 EUR/mois.

Utilities (electricity, gas, water) are generally not included in the rent and add an estimated 100–200 EUR/mois depending on the season and property size. A security deposit (deposito cauzionale) is legally capped at three months' rent under Italian law.

When searching for a long-term rental in Cagliari, several common mistakes can complicate the process or lead to unexpected costs:

• Not obtaining a Codice Fiscale early: This Italian tax identification number is required to sign any rental contract. Apply for it at the local Agenzia delle Entrate or through the Italian consulate before arriving.
• Skipping the contract registration: All rental contracts in Italy must be registered with the Agenzia delle Entrate within 30 days of signing. An unregistered contract offers no legal protection to the tenant.
• Ignoring the Energy Performance Certificate (APE): Landlords are legally required to provide this document. Renting without it may indicate an irregular arrangement.
• Underestimating move-in costs: Beyond the first month's rent, budget for a deposit of up to 3 months' rent and, if using an agency, a commission typically equivalent to one month's rent.
• Relying solely on tourist-season listings: Many short-term holiday rentals are listed as long-term in the off-season. Always confirm the lease type and minimum duration before committing.
• Not clarifying what is included in the rent: Utilities, condominium fees (spese condominiali), and internet are often excluded. Always request a written breakdown.