Lazio
12/11/2025
Stéphane Rabenja

Where to buy in Lazio: the Roman countryside or the seaside?

Azure sea or volcanic hills a stone’s throw from Rome? Where to settle in Lazio (Latium) in 2026 to combine quality of life and a sound investment? 🌍

Here is a clear overview of the up-and-coming areas, average prices and available incentives, to calmly decide between coast and countryside. According to recent enquiries recorded by Green-acres, significant gaps are observed between Rome’s historic center and the surrounding municipalities, which sheds light on the choice between liquidity and space.

Why Buy in Lazio in 2026: Stability Around the Capital

The Lazio market shows well-managed stability: prices remain steady around Rome while demand spreads to neighboring towns. Buyers prioritize access to transport and space, without giving up services. 📈

  • Overall stable prices, with slight support for renovated and energy-efficient properties.
  • Clear preference for houses with outdoor space and apartments with a terrace.
  • Commute times to Rome and school quality remain key criteria.

Rome Remains Dynamic, but Buyers Are Moving to the Surroundings

The heart of Rome remains sought-after for its character and liquidity — the average demand for high-end listings is around €1,474,000 (spacious homes, high price per m²) — see real estate listings in Rome. Meanwhile, towns such as Pomezia attract families looking for more space on a constrained budget: average requests here are around €269,000 for properties with generous square meters, illustrating the additional space available in the suburbs.

  • Better controlled budgets for more generous spaces.
  • Highway access and regional trains facilitate daily commutes.
  • Parks, schools, and shops are booming in peripheral hubs.

Buyer Profiles and Foreign Demand

Foreign demand contributes to liquidity in the Rome department. Among the most present foreign buyers are the United States (≈14%), then Poland and France (≈12% each), followed by Israel and other European countries — a sign of the Roman market’s international visibility, which supports certain central areas.

40% of Sales Completed Outside the Metropolis in 2026

In 2026, about 40% of transactions are concluded outside the metropolitan area. This shift is explained by remote work, the need for space, and a more accessible supply.

  • Seeking better value for money and private gardens.
  • Availability of semi-detached or independent move-in-ready houses.
  • Growth of small towns well connected to the capital.

The Coastal Areas of Lazio

The coast appeals for its year-round holiday vibe and possible seasonal rental income. The sea remains a strong emotional asset… and a solid resale criterion. 🌊

Ostia, Anzio, and Terracina: Beach Real Estate Recovering

These resorts are picking up, driven by local tourism and second-home owners from Rome. Seafront renovations and coastal promenades enhance the appeal.

  • Ostia: close to Rome, full services, good liquidity — average demand around €362,000.
  • Anzio: port charm, active markets, very lively summer — similar profiles and prices to Ostia (average ≈€356,000).
  • Terracina: long beaches, panoramas, strong summer rental demand — listings often more affordable (average ≈€142,000).

Things to check before buying:

  • Exposure to wind and sea air (maintenance of facades and woodwork).
  • Summer nuisances (noise, parking) and well-managed condominiums.
  • Beach access and concessions, erosion risks depending on the area.

Southern Coast: Average Prices and Local Variations

Along the south coast, general averages (2,000–2,600 €/m²) coexist with more affordable areas; Terracina, for example, shows average requests that can remain below these levels, reflecting local variability and opportunities for tight budgets.

  • Apartments with terraces or small gardens for good seasonal returns.
  • Townhouses near services for year-round living.
  • Travel time to Rome: 45 to 80 minutes depending on locality and traffic.

The Countryside and Hills of Lazio

Fragrant countryside, historic villages, volcanic lakes: rural Lazio offers a contemplative quality of life and unique landscapes. 🌿

Castelli Romani and Sabina: Rustic Charm and Panoramic Views

The Castelli Romani (Frascati, Nemi, Grottaferrata, Ariccia, etc.) attract for their lakes, wines, and villas surrounded by greenery. Sabina (Poggio Mirteto, Stimigliano, Roccantica, etc.) is loved for its olive groves, stone villages, and low prices.

  • Villas with gardens, small farms, and stone village houses.
  • Access to Rome by regional train or motorway, depending on the town.
  • Authentic setting, local markets, more relaxed pace of life.

Prices Between €1,000 and €1,500/m², Renovation Common

Expect generally €1,000 to €1,500/m², with a significant share of properties needing renovation. Opportunities exist, provided you anticipate work. 🛠️

  • Insulation, roofing, heating systems: priorities for comfort and energy efficiency.
  • Possible landscape and seismic constraints: a « tecnico’s » opinion is recommended.
  • Individual sanitation and rural easements to clarify before making an offer.

Useful reference values:

  • Light renovation: €300–600/m² (paintwork, kitchens, bathrooms).
  • Full renovation: €800–1,200/m² (structure, utilities, insulation).
  • Stone house to upgrade: renovation budget to refine after inspection.

Taxation and Local Incentives

Financing and optimizing works remain key leverage to secure your project. 💡

Eco-Renovation Bonus Extended Until 2026

The eco-renovation bonus, extended until 2026, supports energy-efficiency works (insulation, windows, more efficient heating). Eligibility depends on the property type, the targets set and the administrative process.

  • Confirm current thresholds and rates before signing a quote.
  • Request an energy assessment and detailed estimates by line item.
  • Prioritize authorized companies and supervision by an engineer/architect.

Mortgage Rates Stable at 3.4% on Average

Rates are steady at around 3.4% on average. Conservative profiles favor fixed rates, while others opt for capped variable rates if the term is short.

  • Compare fixed vs. variable rates and total cost, including insurance.
  • Negotiate application fees, prepayment penalties, and flexibility.
  • Plan for a 20–30% down payment and a renovation budget to secure your timeline.

Quick checklist before deciding coast vs countryside:

  • Actual door-to-door travel time at peak hours.
  • Total cost: purchase + works + charges + local taxes.
  • Resale liquidity and rental potential (seasonal or annual).
See properties in Lazio

Lazio offers two complementary promises: the sea for vibrancy and ease of renting, the countryside for space and authenticity. In 2026, market stability and the spread of demand outside Rome open interesting buying opportunities.

Focus on your lifestyle, your budget and the timeline for renovations. With good preparation and reliable partners, your project will naturally find its place between waves and hills. 🙂

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