Italian household consumption: 30% spent on housing, only 1% on education

Italian household spending: a snapshot of 2023

According to an analysis by the Centro studi di Unimpresa, in 2023, total household spending in Italy reached €1.258 billion, with an increase of 16% compared to 2019. The data show that spending on housing represents almost a third of the total, with €364 billion allocated to utilities, furniture, and maintenance. On the other hand, spending on education accounts for only 1%, with a 2% decrease compared to 2019.

Household priorities: housing and food

Housing continues to be the primary expense for Italian families, absorbing 30% of the budget. Following closely is spending on food, which reached €185 billion in 2023, marking a 19% increase compared to pre-pandemic data. Unimpresa highlights how inflation has had a significant impact on these figures, leading many families to allocate a larger portion of their income to essential goods.

Transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods on the rise

Spending on transportation also increased, reaching €160 billion (+14%) and remaining steady at 13% of the total. The miscellaneous goods and services category saw the largest growth, with a 34% increase, totaling €150 billion. Healthcare spending also saw a significant rise, increasing by 12% from 2019 to 2023, with €43 billion dedicated to addressing shortcomings in the public healthcare system.

Education: a neglected expense

A concerning figure highlighted in Unimpresa’s report is spending on education. With only €9.7 billion allocated to books and training, this sector represents a mere 1% of household budgets. It is the only category to show a decrease compared to 2019, with a 2% drop. This trend raises important questions about the value placed on education in the Italian context.

Unimpresa’s observations

Unimpresa‘s president, Giovanna Ferrara, commented on the data, emphasizing that they reflect structural problems in the public system and some negative cultural trends. “The lack of attention to education and the shortcomings of the national healthcare system are worrying signs that require urgent action,” Ferrara stated.