Italy has long been a dream destination for expats, digital nomads, and retirees due to its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and high quality of life. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in ancient history, enjoy Mediterranean beaches, or settle in charming countryside villages, Italy offers a wide variety of locations to suit any lifestyle. From vibrant cities like Rome and Milan to picturesque towns like Florence and Bologna, the country provides a blend of modern amenities and timeless beauty. Italy’s relaxed pace of life, affordable healthcare, and excellent food and wine culture make it an attractive destination for those seeking a new chapter of their life.
How to Be a Digital Nomad, Expat, or Retire in Italy
1. Visa Options
- Elective Residence Visa (ERV): Ideal for retirees or those with passive income (e.g., pensions, investments). Allows stays longer than six months, renewable annually, and can lead to residency. Requirements:
- Monthly Income: €3,000 EUR ($3,180 USD) for a single applicant, plus €600 EUR ($635 USD) per dependent, proven over the last three months.
- Savings: €36,000 EUR ($38,160 USD) in a bank account (12 months of minimum income).
- Digital Nomad Visa: Launched in 2022, for remote workers employed by non-Italian companies. Valid for 1 year, renewable. Requirements:
- Monthly Income: €2,850 EUR ($3,020 USD), roughly three times the Italian minimum healthcare exemption threshold, sustained for six months.
- Proof of remote employment or freelance contracts, plus health insurance.
- Golden Visa (Investor Visa): For those investing in Italy. Minimum options:
- Real estate isn’t directly eligible; instead, invest €250,000 EUR ($265,000 USD) in startups, €500,000 EUR ($530,000 USD) in companies, or €2 million EUR (~$2.12 million USD) in government bonds.
- Tourist Visa (Schengen): U.S., Canadian, and most Western country citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Not suitable for work or long-term residence.
Note: Income and savings requirements may vary by consulate and exchange rates.
2. Cost of Living
Italy’s cost of living varies widely by region. A couple can live comfortably on €2,500–€4,500 EUR (~$2,650–$4,770 USD) per month. Northern cities like Milan and tourist hubs like Venice are expensive, while southern regions like Puglia or Sicily are more affordable.
- Rent: €800–€1,800 EUR (~$850–$1,910 USD) for a one-bedroom apartment in cities; lower in rural areas.
- Groceries: €300–€500 EUR (~$318–$530 USD) monthly for two.
- Dining Out: €15–€30 EUR (~$16–$32 USD) per meal in casual trattorias.
3. Healthcare
Italy’s healthcare system is among Europe’s best:
- SSN (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale): Public healthcare available to legal residents. Free or low-cost after registration; non-EU citizens may pay an annual fee (€150–€400 EUR/$159–$424 USD) until fully enrolled.
- Private Healthcare: High-quality private options are affordable compared to the U.S., with insurance costing €80–€200 EUR (~$85–$212 USD) monthly.
4. Internet & Work Infrastructure
Italy supports remote work, though rural connectivity lags:
- Internet Speeds: 50–300 Mbps in cities; fiber-optic growing but spotty in small towns.
- Workspaces: Rome, Milan, and Florence have coworking spaces (€150–€350 EUR/~$159–$371 USD monthly). Cafes with decent Wi-Fi are common in urban areas.
5. Best Places to Live
- For Digital Nomads: Milan (cosmopolitan, connected), Florence (cultural, inspiring), Bologna (vibrant, affordable).
- For Expats/Retirees: Tuscany (rural charm, scenic), Puglia (affordable, coastal), Umbria (quiet, historic), Lake Como (upscale, picturesque).
6. Things to Keep in Mind
- Learn basic Italian—English is limited outside tourist zones, and it’s key for bureaucracy.
- Expect slow admin processes (e.g., visa renewals, permits); patience is essential.
- Visit seasonally—summers are hot and crowded, winters mild but damp in the north.
- Research regional differences—cost, culture, and climate vary from north to south.
This list of the top 10 best places to live in Italy highlights the most expat-friendly cities and regions, considering affordability, lifestyle, culture, and the availability of services for digital nomads and retirees.
1. Milan – Best for Business, Fashion & Urban Living
🌟 Why? Italy’s financial hub, offering global business opportunities, cutting-edge design, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
💰 Cost of Living: High, especially in central areas, but balanced by modern amenities and proximity to business hubs.
👜 Lifestyle: Fashion, nightlife, fine dining, and rich cultural experiences.
2. Rome – Best for History, Culture & City Life
🌟 Why? The Eternal City, known for its ancient ruins, art, and vibrant lifestyle, offering something for everyone.
💰 Cost of Living: High, particularly in central areas, but with options in more affordable neighborhoods.
🏛️ Lifestyle: Historical landmarks, museums, shopping, and international expat communities.
3. Florence – Best for Art, History & Scenic Living
🌟 Why? A hub for art, history, and architecture, perfect for those wanting to live surrounded by culture.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate to high, depending on the area, but still less than Rome or Milan.
🎨 Lifestyle: Museums, galleries, outdoor cafes, and a relaxed pace of life.
4. Bologna – Best for Food Lovers & Student Life
🌟 Why? Known for its culinary delights, lively student population, and central location in Italy.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate, with affordable housing options in the city and surrounding areas.
🍝 Lifestyle: World-class food, cafes, and a blend of historical and modern living.
5. Turin – Best for Affordable Living & Business
🌟 Why? A charming city with an industrial background, offering a more affordable alternative to Milan.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate, with lower housing costs compared to Milan and Rome.
🚗 Lifestyle: Automotive industry presence, coffee culture, and elegant architecture.
6. Naples – Best for Coastal Living & Southern Italian Charm
🌟 Why? A bustling port city with fabulous food, Mediterranean beaches, and a rich cultural heritage.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with very affordable real estate and lower living costs.
🍕 Lifestyle: Vibrant street life, seafood, and a lively urban atmosphere.
7. Lake Como – Best for Nature, Luxury & Tranquil Living
🌟 Why? A luxurious, serene area surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear lakes, perfect for those seeking peace and beauty.
💰 Cost of Living: High, especially in towns near the lake, but ideal for those seeking an upscale lifestyle.
🚤 Lifestyle: Scenic views, water sports, and a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
8. Sardinia – Best for Island Living & Natural Beauty
🌟 Why? An island paradise known for its pristine beaches, mountainous terrain, and outdoor activities.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with affordable real estate options away from tourist centers.
🏝️ Lifestyle: Beach living, hiking, nature exploration, and close-knit communities.
9. Verona – Best for Romantic Living & Small City Charm
🌟 Why? A romantic city known for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, medieval architecture, and beautiful scenery.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate, with options for both modern and historical living.
🎭 Lifestyle: Opera, arts, and a charming small-town feel with big-city amenities.
10. Perugia – Best for Peaceful Living & Historical Atmosphere
🌟 Why? A beautiful hilltop town in Umbria, known for its medieval history, arts, and festivals.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with affordable housing and a relaxed pace of life.
🎨 Lifestyle: Culture, art, and a slower, peaceful pace of living with stunning views.
Italy offers a diverse range of living environments, from the urban excitement of Milan and Rome to the artistic and historical charm of Florence and Bologna. For those seeking a more relaxed, coastal lifestyle, Naples, Lake Como, and Sardinia are perfect options. Verona and Perugia offer small-town charm with rich cultural histories, while cities like Turin provide affordable living with business opportunities. Whether you’re interested in luxury lakeside living, vibrant city life, or quiet countryside retreats, Italy offers an ideal location for every expat.