Suburbs Where Buying is Now Cheaper Than Renting

In a significant shift in Milan's property market, buying a home in certain suburbs is now more affordable than renting. This trend is particularly evident in areas like Corsico and Trezzano sul Naviglio, where mortgage repayments can be lower than monthly rents.

The current economic climate, marked by rising interest rates and increasing costs of living, has led to a surge in demand for affordable housing options. As a result, prospective homeowners are looking beyond the city centre to suburbs that offer better value for money. With the average price per square meter in Milan standing at around EUR 5,000, areas like Brera and Porta Nuova remain out of reach for many buyers. However, suburbs like Isola and Nolo are gaining popularity, driven by the fashion industry's demand for luxury properties and the subsequent gentrification of these areas.

Local Market Trends

In Milan, the suburbs of Corsico and Trezzano sul Naviglio are emerging as attractive options for buyers. According to data from the Milan Chamber of Commerce, the average price per square meter in Corsico is around EUR 2,500, while in Trezzano sul Naviglio it is approximately EUR 2,800. In contrast, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment in these areas can range from EUR 800 to EUR 1,200. Organisations like the Associazione dei Costruttori Edili (Association of Building Contractors) and the Camera di Commercio di Milano (Milan Chamber of Commerce) are working to promote affordable housing options in these suburbs, with initiatives like the 'Housing First' program aimed at providing subsidies for first-time buyers.

A closer look at the data reveals that buying can be a more cost-effective option in the long run. For example, a EUR 200,000 mortgage on a property in Corsico, with a 20-year repayment term and an interest rate of 2.5%, would result in monthly repayments of around EUR 950. In contrast, the average monthly rent for a similar property in the same area is around EUR 1,100. This trend is not limited to Corsico, with other suburbs like Trezzano sul Naviglio and Buccinasco also offering better value for buyers. As of June 2026, the number of properties sold in these suburbs has increased by 15% compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Agenzia delle Entrate (Revenue Agency).

As the property market continues to evolve, it is essential for prospective buyers to carefully consider their options. With the right financing and a bit of patience, buying a home in one of Milan's suburbs can be a shrewd investment. As the city's fashion industry continues to drive demand for luxury properties, areas like Isola and Nolo are likely to remain popular. However, for those looking for more affordable options, suburbs like Corsico and Trezzano sul Naviglio are definitely worth exploring. The Via Monte Napoleone and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, iconic landmarks in Milan's city centre, may be out of reach for many buyers, but the suburbs offer a more affordable alternative, with easy access to the city centre via the Milan Metro and bus network.