Nestled in the heart of Italy, Perugia is the gem of Umbria—a region known as the “green heart” of the country. While it lacks a coastline, this historic city more than makes up for it with its charm and strategic location. With approximately 160,000 residents, Perugia ranks as Italy’s 30th most populated city. Though it cannot compete in size with larger metropolitan hubs, it strikes an ideal balance between a livable, human-scale lifestyle and the professional and real estate opportunities typical of its bigger sisters.
- You may be interested in: Moving to Umbria: an Overview for 2024
Why should you consider moving to Perugia?
If you do not like historic, medieval vibes, you might want to reconsider living in Perugia’s old town. Beloved and sometimes disliked by its residents, the historic center is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets, characterized by steep inclines and descents. The ancient architecture, dating back to the 15th century and beyond, weaves seamlessly into the city’s layout.
At the same time, Perugia is a lively university city, perfectly suited to those seeking a vibrant yet manageable lifestyle. It boasts a bustling nightlife filled with cultural diversity, thanks in part to the prestigious University for Foreigners. With over 1,000 enrollments per year and 13 unique academic tracks, this institution attracts students worldwide. Having commuted to Perugia as a student for several years, I can attest that its cultural diversity is one of its defining features.
Whether you enjoy a buzzing social scene or prefer a slower-paced life immersed in the arts and humanities, Perugia offers something for everyone. Beyond the historic city walls, modern residential areas and green spaces provide options for those seeking newer, more contemporary housing styles.
In short, Perugia is highly regarded by expats, many of whom choose to settle here for its abundant professional and lifestyle opportunities.
- Click here to read: Studying in Perugia: Student Advice to a Foreigner
The real estate market in Perugia (2025)
As of December 2024, the average price of residential real estate in Perugia was €1,291 per square meter, marking an 8.03% increase from December 2023. Living costs in the city remain appealingly low, with projections for 2025 estimating expenses to be 11% lower than the Italian national average.
In the historic center, property prices average €1,171 per square meter. Despite the logistical challenges of central living—such as limited parking, narrow streets, and traffic restrictions—the charm of historical mansions with antique furnishings often justifies the investment. However, these properties cater to a niche audience, leaving more modern and affordable options for others in neighborhoods like:
- Elce: €1,094/m²
- Ferro di Cavallo: €1,094/m²
- Monteluce: €1,028/m²
Safety is another key factor. Perugia enjoys a reputation as a relatively safe city. Numbeo rates Perugia’s overall crime level at 39.59 out of 100, classifying it as low. However, 57.73% of respondents believe crime has increased in the past three years. Perugia ranked 38th out of 107 provinces in Italy’s 2024 crime index by Il Sole 24 Ore, reflecting a middle-ground status nationally. In 2022, 21,295 reports were filed, equivalent to 3,339 per 100,000 residents, placing the city 42nd nationally.
Perugia remains far from the chaos and violence associated with larger cities, offering a quieter, more orderly lifestyle while still buzzing with activity.
An international hub
Perugia’s cultural diversity extends beyond its university. The city frequently hosts internationally acclaimed events, such as Eurochocolate, the world’s largest chocolate festival, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually.
Another highlight is Umbria Jazz, Italy’s most prominent jazz festival and one of the world’s most respected, held every July in the heart of summer.
Adding to its international appeal is the San Francesco d’Assisi International Airport, just 12 kilometers from the city center. This airport provides direct flights to major European destinations like London, Brussels, and Rotterdam, making travel incredibly convenient for residents and visitors alike.
