Moving to Italy offers an appealing option for many, thanks to the country’s rich cultural heritage and varied cost of living. Research by Travel + Leisure, which included interviews with locals and frequent travelers, alongside insights from online communities like the Retired Expats in Italy Facebook group, provides invaluable information on taxes, housing, and healthcare.
As of 2023, Expatica reported that approximately five million foreigners, or about 8.8 percent of the population, were living in Italy. EU citizens can move to Italy without needing a visa and have access to the public healthcare system. However, non-EU citizens must obtain a residence visa and provide proof of stable income for stays longer than 90 days. High-quality healthcare services are accessible to residents, though a private health policy is advisable during the transition period. Pension income is taxable, although some regions offer a flat seven percent tax rate for eligible residents.
Choosing where to move to in Italy involves considering factors such as climate, housing costs, lifestyle, healthcare, and local activities. Decisions on renting, buying, or renovating property significantly influence this choice. Let’s explore some regions highlighted by Travel + Leisure, considering their pros and cons.
Moving to Sicily
Sicily, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and affordable cost of living, is an interesting choice for those considering moving to Italy. Cities like Palermo and Catania offer some of the most affordable living options in Italy: monthly expenses for a single person in Palermo can be around $860 excluding rent, and a family of four might spend approximately $2,988 excluding rent. Housing costs are reasonable, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from $400 to $800 per month and property purchases averaging between $125,000 and $250,000. Utilities, groceries, and dining out are also relatively inexpensive, contributing to the overall affordability.
Beyond affordability and scenic locales, Sicily offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of community. The locals are known for their hospitality, and the island’s slower pace of life is ideal for those seeking a relaxed and fulfilling lifestyle. The mild Mediterranean climate allows for year-round outdoor activities, and its rich culinary traditions ensure food enthusiasts always have something new to enjoy.
Moving to Puglia
Just like beautiful Sicily, Puglia provides an affordable living cost, making it an excellent option for those moving to Italy. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in city centers ranges from $535 to $852, while outside city centers, prices drop to around $385 to $664. If you are thinking of buying, one-bedroom apartments in the historical centers of towns like Ostuni can start from as low as $33,600 for those needing restoration, and go up to $111,000 for fully restored apartments with sea views. More modern properties in areas like Brindisi, Lecce, and Taranto can range from $5600 to $1,680 per square meter
Utilities are relatively inexpensive in Puglia, costing between $102 and $157 per month. Groceries and dining out are affordable, with a cappuccino costing around $1.54 and a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant around $56.60.
Moving to Tuscany
The more we go North, the higher the prices, as it’s proven by our next region, Tuscany. Living in the land of Dante can be pricier than other regions but, at the same time, it offers a high quality of life with its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Florence costs around $1,000 to $1,500 monthly, while smaller towns and countryside areas offer more affordable options. One-bedroom apartments in Florence typically cost between $224,000 and $448,000, but if you decide to buy off the beaten path, you should be able to save, with real estate prices ranging between $1,680 to $3,360 per square meter.
Monthly expenses for utilities, groceries, and dining out are moderate compared to other European regions.
Moving to Lombardy
Lombardy, especially in cities like Milan, is one of the more expensive regions in Italy. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Milan can cost between $1,200 and $2,000 per month. One-bedroom apartments in Milan can cost between $280,000 and $448,000. However, the region offers excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and a vibrant cultural scene. Smaller towns around Lake Como provide more affordable living options with stunning natural surroundings, where prices range from $2,240 to $5,600 per square meter.
Life in Lombardy is definitely more expensive, but the region offers excellent healthcare, infrastructure, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Moving to Liguria
Liguria offers a moderate to high cost of living, especially in popular tourist areas like Genoa and Portofino. Renting a one-bedroom apartment can cost around $800 to $1,200 per month, which is certainly on the higher end of things. The cost of buying can vary significantly between coastal and inland areas. Our average one-bedroom apartment along the coast can be priced anything between $2,800 to $5,600 per square meter, reflecting the high demand for properties with sea views and beach proximity. This premium is due to the attractive seaside locations that draw both locals and international buyers. Conversely, inland areas of Liguria offer more affordable options, with prices generally ranging from $1,680 to $2,800 per square meter.
Certainly, the region’s mild climate and scenic coast make it an attractive destination, even if property prices may be higher than in other parts of the country, such as the South. Overall, the quality of life is high, with a good healthcare system to boot, and utilities, groceries and dining out are still relatively affordable.
Moving to Abruzzo
Abruzzo is one of the most affordable regions in Italy, making it ideal for those considering moving to Italy. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center costs around $400 to $700 per month, with utilities and groceries being relatively inexpensive. Just like in Liguria, the cost of buying a one-bedroom apartment changes between towns on the coast and those inland: on the coast, prices typically range from $2,240 to $3,360 per square meter, reflecting the demand for properties with sea views and beach access. In inland areas, the prices are more affordable, generally ranging from $1,120 to $1,680 per square meter. Towns and villages away from the sea usually attract buyers seeking a quieter lifestyle and lower property costs.
All in all, Abruzzo offers a high quality of life at a lower cost, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The region is celebrated for its natural beauty, and offers a blend of coastal, mountainous, and cultural experiences. Pescara is known for its modern amenities and beautiful beaches. L’Aquila, with its rich historical charm and scenic mountainous backdrop, provides a quiet environment. Schiavi di Abruzzo offers a peaceful and authentic Italian experience, ideal for those looking for tranquility and a close-knit community.
Additional Considerations
Navigating visa requirements, cost of living, and healthcare are essential when considering moving to Italy. Non-EU movers typically need an elective residence visa, which requires proof of sufficient income and accommodation in Italy. As this brief outlook demonstrates, the cost of living varies significantly across regions, with southern areas like Sicily and Apulia generally being more affordable than northern regions like Lombardy and Tuscany. When it comes to healthcare, the Italian national health system (Sanità Pubblica) is highly regarded, with the country having one of the best healthcare systems globally. Residents can benefit from both public and private healthcare services, which are also widely available and affordable, especially when compared to US healthcare insurance. A full cover for one person comes at around $150, with family options being widely available and usually even better value for money.
