Moving to Italy

"It is important to note that Italy has a predominantly Catholic population and that the majority of the population speaks Italian. Additionally, communication can be difficult in Italy, and expats should be prepared to learn some basic Italian words and phrases. Immigration procedures can often take a long time in Italy, and it is important to be patient in the process and to make sure that any necessary paperwork is in order. Expats should be aware that Italy is known for its positive culture, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes; however, living costs can be high and the country has encountered its share of economic difficulties in recent years. Due to Italy's cultural importance worldwide, they should also research Italian customs and etiquette prior to moving. Finally, with thousands of years of history and art, Italy is full of amazing sites to explore and discover, making the relocation an exciting and memorable experience," said one expat who made the move to Italy.

"Let's say this answer depends A LOT on your budget and where you decide to live in the city. And if you can find something. Bolognesi have found a cash cow with Airbnb," remarked one expat in Bologna, Italy.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Italy is usually situated in a cosmopolitan area with easy access to local attractions and amenities. Expat homes and apartments typically offer welcoming open-spaced layouts with modern appliances and amenities that enhance the traditional Italian lifestyle. Although the interiors may need some updating, wooden flooring and high ceilings are often a feature of expat homes and apartments in Italy. Most expat residences feature balconies overlooking views of the surrounding city or countryside," said one expat in Italy.

"The average cost of housing in Italy varies depending on the size, location, and type of property; however, generally speaking, prices tend to be more expensive in cities such as Rome and Milan than in rural areas. Additionally, prices can vary significantly depending on whether one wishes to buy or rent," said one expat in Italy.

"It really depends where you look. I bought a delightful old stone row house type of home, 4 bed, 2 bath with a large terrace and glorious view in a 500 yr old building for $54,000. It's definitely livable but could use upgrades. I also bought a penthouse 1 bedroom apt, tiny but with a great view and wrap around balcony on three sides one block outside of the old town in Vicenza with elevator and a garage parking spot for $110,000," said one expat who made the move to Italy.

"Our housing costs are higher here only because of the higher rate of electricity. Electricity is very expensive here. I don't know the average rate of housing here," explained one expat living in Bergamo, Italy.

"If you are looking to experience the Italian lifestyle, buying a home in Italy may be the best option. Not only can you enjoy the beauty and cultural atmosphere of Italy, but buying a home can also be a great investment in your future. However, if you are planning to stay in Italy for a short period of time, renting a home might be the better option for you. Renting allows you to explore the country without making a long-term financial commitment, giving you the flexibility to move around if needed," explained one expat living in Italy.

"We paid an attorney in Rome to ensure that the process was easy. He was expensive, but well worth the money. Without good language skills one is at the mercy of the system. Our attorney stood the ground for us when necessary," said one expat in Minturno.

"When moving to Italy it is important to pack your essential documents such as your passport, visa, and any other important paperwork. You may also want to remember to bring items like a first aid kit just in case you are in need of basic medical supplies. It is also recommended to bring some warm clothing such as sweaters and jackets since the weather in Italy can get chilly during the winter months. Additionally, you should definitely pack some comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets of Italy are not always friendly to high heels. Lastly, it is a good idea to bring a good quality suit or dress for special occasions, as the Italians take pride in their fashion," remarked one expat in Italy.

"Milan is a cosmopolitan city like all others — NYC, London, Paris — where you can find anything and everything you need. As far as clothing is concerned, dress like you would in NYC in all four seasons. Women and men are usually elegantly casual. Other than that I would only bring endearing personal possessions and prescribed medications along with the prescription so you can refill when needed," said one expat in Milan.

"Things to bring: 1. Cling Wrap - the kind here is very thin and incredibly hard to tear. I always end up with half the roll bunched up in a mess. 2. Packaged mixes such as muffin mix, Bisquick, packaged seasonings - while on the rise, prepared food mixes aren't as popular in Italy. 3. Good, sturdy ice cube trays. Italians don't use ice in regular drinks, and don't seem to make blender drinks. So the quality of the ice cube trays here is bad. Hard to use and very small. Things I could have left behind: 1. Large Pyrex dishes. The ovens here are smaller and the larger Pyrex will not fit in the oven. 2. Large cat litter box. We have two cats. Everything here is smaller and you won't be able to find the large litter box bags. 3. Large Tupperwares. Fridges are smaller and you shop more and store leftovers less. I only use my small plasticware to store," explained one expat living in Bergamo, Italy.

"I am a booklover, as in a physical book in hand, but now I am filling up my Kindle with more and more. I just got Goldoni's La Locandiara ostensibly from Amazon Italy but ordered and paid for in my account in Mexico. I've also checked to see what is available on Amazon Italy as far as household goods and even though it's not as extensive a selection as US consumers might like, I saw pretty much everything I need," said one expat in Rome.

"It is important to be respectful when visiting Italy. Some cultural faux pas you should try to avoid making include not speaking too loudly in public places, as it is considered rude; being punctual when invited to someone's home; avoiding being too familiar or friendly with strangers; not being loud or disrespectful in places of worship; not eating or drinking while walking the streets; and not increasingly gesticulating when speaking," remarked one expat in Italy.

"All the time, probably... I walk around barefoot in my house, without slippers on. I asked if I could "Sweep the Floor" for someone. Oh...that's right...I mixed my spinach contorno (side dish) into my spaghetti. I was audibly gasped at," said one expat in Southern Tuscany.

"Numerous, but I don't care because I am the perpetual outsider - the American. I live my life around diversity, being multiracial. I am different and if I am living here, I not only want to absorb but also share. Had people not shared in the past, the Jewish community would have kept that awesome coffee to themselves," remarked one expat who made the move to Tuscany.

"Drinking cappuccino after 1pm, not having coffee after dinner, wearing my gym clothes outside of the gym, trying to flag down a taxi (call or go to stands instead)," explained one expat living in Florence, Italy.

"I am a little reluctant to let out the secret but I figured I’ll perform a little mitzvah. My wife and I have moved to Lecce Italy last year from NYC and we’ve never been happier. We have visited here multiple times over the past 35 years and realized that we loved being here. So we retired and pulled the trigger in April. Lecce is big enough and cosmopolitan enough to satisfy my wife’s big city addiction but we still can walk to 90% of our destinations. A beautiful city with plenty of high end (and other) boutiques, great food, nice people, great weather and 8km to the beach (there are many). 30 minutes to Brindisi airport. Traffic and parking are similar to what we were used to in Brooklyn. We live in the modern center and have a two car garage (necessary). The historic center is very charming but lacks facilities and parking. Also the homes can be uncomfortable. We have a beautiful 1800 sq ft apartment where we pay less than a third what we spent in Brooklyn. We have tickets to see the Moscow ballet perform the Nutcracker at the end of January. We continually meet interesting people from all over the world and locally. We take day trips to some of the most beautiful , historical towns in the world. Matera, Alberobello, Ostuni, Otranto, Gallipoli, S.M. Leuca. For us, this is what we worked all our lives to enjoy. So the secret is out now," offered one expat living in Lecce.

"Italy is renowned for its rich culture, timeless architecture, exquisite cuisine, diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, unique lifestyle, and vibrant cities. Expats are often lured by the country's relaxed pace of life and reputation for good living, which pairs so well with its ancient yet modern cities. The country's excellent healthcare system and strong healthcare infrastructure also appeal to expats. Italy also boasts excellent transportation infrastructure, making it easy for expats to get around independently. Other advantages for expats in Italy include multiple job opportunities, a strong economy, and affordable housing," wrote one expat living in Italy.

"If in serious health...seek English speaking private physician..."you get what you pay for"," said one expat.

"Health care is a benefit to tax residents. The quality of care for public health ranges wildly depending on where you live. It is also difficult to get an appointment with a specialist. My sister is waiting 6 mos. to see a neurologist- and she lives in Tuscany. Also keep in mind that if you are hospitalized there are no aides. The assumption is that a family member will be there to wash/groom/dress you. Or feed you, if necessary. You are also responsible for bringing provisions like water and linens with you. If you don’t have family/friends to assist you, you must hire private care. Let’s face it, when it comes to health care, no country is a panacea," wrote one expat living in Palermo Sicily.