28 October 2025
“Italians and the home”: new housing needs and market challenges
Download the reportHome remains at the heart of family life
In Italy, the home continues to represent security, stability and family identity. According to Patrigest – Gabetti Group’s report “Italians and the home: needs and reality”, more than three in four households live in an owner-occupied home, confirming the strength of Italy’s ownership culture.
Yet high costs, more selective mortgages and an offer not always aligned with demand are bringing new housing needs at the centre.
Homeownership, wellbeing and new housing needs
The report explores the symbolic value of the home, housing satisfaction, willingness to move and interest in new builds and alternative living solutions. It reveals a solid market under pressure: demand remains purchase-oriented, while affordability, quality and flexibility are becoming increasingly decisive.
Italians continue to see the home as a place of family, security and stability
A country of homeowners between stability and affordability
Homeownership remains one of Italy’s cultural and economic pillars. Today, 75,9% of households live in an owner-occupied home, above the European average, confirming a housing model still strongly focused on stability and long-term wealth creation.
The research also shows that almost half of Italians’ wealth is tied to residential property.
The bond with the home remains deep, but housing needs are changing
Housing satisfaction and the desire to move
The report shows an overall positive level of housing satisfaction, although economic and territorial differences are becoming increasingly evident. Four in five Italians consider their housing situation adequate, especially appreciating natural light, space and domestic comfort.
At the same time, the desire to improve one’s living conditions is growing: 27% of Italians say they would like to move in the coming years.
New builds, efficiency and quality of life
Newly built homes continue to represent the ideal housing model for a growing share of demand. One in two Italians considers it a priority to live in a new or recent home, mainly for reasons linked to energy efficiency, safety, comfort and lower maintenance needs.
Energy class, outdoor spaces and overall property quality are key choice drivers, while attention to liveable neighbourhoods, services and accessibility is also increasing.
The housing market evolves between ownership, flexibility and new models
Patrigest – Gabetti Group’s report shows that the relationship between Italians and the home remains deep, identity-driven and strongly rooted in ownership culture. The home is still a symbol of family stability, security and personal achievement, but the market is entering a clear phase of transformation.
Alongside the desire to buy, housing demand is becoming more complex, calling for greater affordability, construction quality, energy efficiency and flexibility. Interest in new builds is rising, while the rental sector continues to expand, supported by economic needs, mobility and demographic change.
New residential models are also emerging, from affordable housing to student housing, although awareness of these solutions remains limited in Italy. In this context, understanding household needs and anticipating demand trends is becoming increasingly strategic for operators, investors and developers.