Retire in Italy
Last updated on Apr 15, 2023
Summary: Retirees are often attracted to Italy for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Italy is also known for its mild climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit in the winter and spring, and the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit in the summer and fall.
What is it like to retire in Italy?
"Retirees in Italy and its surroundings enjoy a high quality of life thanks to the country’s rich cultural attractions, natural beauty and delicious cuisine. With its unique climate and laid-back atmosphere, Italy provides retirees with ample opportunities for recreation and leisure activities. Expats can take advantage of a vibrant arts, music and theatre scene, explore landmarks and monuments, and also take advantage of its many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and kayaking in the numerous national parks and coastline areas. For those looking for more nightlife and entertainment, Italy's capital, Rome, and other big cities offer plenty of choices, including pubs and clubs, live music, and local theaters. There is also a thriving expat community, making the transition to living in Italy easier and more enjoyable," said a person in Italy.
"We are connected to ex-pats in near towns. We live in a quiet hill town which is a beach resort in the summer with music and activies. There are religious and cultural festivals and film and music festivals. We work an olive/fruit grove, go to the beach and hike in the mountains. I also volunteer and participate in local archeology work and we enjoy food preparation and preservation. We are within 2 hours of Rome and 1 hour of Naples by train giving unlimited activities," remarked one retiree in Minturno.

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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Retiring abroad is not an option that should be taken lightly. It is very easy with internet and phone services to keep in contact with family, but if being an hour away from family and friends is a necessity for you, don't do this. If you have relatives or are eligible for citizenship, the processes can be much easier. Be prepared for some long processes, some confusion and some frustration, but at the end of the day, this is a very very good life," explained one retiree living in Minturno.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Italy?
"Passing the driver's license test; learning Italian," remarked one retiree in Minturno.

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Italy?
"Being separate from US politics, art, history, time to read and travel, beautiful vistas," said a retiree who moved to Minturno, Italy.
"Retiring in Italy can provide many rewarding benefits, such as the opportunity for an enjoyable and relaxing lifestyle. With plenty of delicious food, a vibrant culture and beautiful scenery, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers add to the pleasures of retiring in Italy. Another benefit of retiring in Italy is the cost of living, which is lower than other European countries. Living expenses are comparatively low, making it easier to enjoy retirement without worrying about finances. Additionally, retirees benefit from the country's public healthcare system which provides largely free healthcare. With an abundance of outdoor activities, excellent public transportation and strong communities, retirees can reap the rewards of living in one of the world's most beautiful countries," said one retiree in Italy.
"We live in Trapani Sicily. It’s a port city with beautiful views, lovely flat areas to walk along the crystal clear sea, a charming historic center with cafes and restaurants, inexpensive fresh fruits and vegetables and fish, local wine for 8e a liter, reasonable rents and friendly locals," commented one retiree living in Italy.
What are healthcare services like in Italy?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Italy. They wrote:
"Health care in Italy is comprehensive and comprehensive, with universal coverage that offers citizens access to any form of public or private healthcare they may require. The majority of the Italian population has health insurance through their employer, local governmental health organizations, or private insurance plans. Healthcare services in Italy are provided by public and private healthcare providers, such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and nursing homes. Moreover, there are a wide variety of specialists covering all fields of medicine. Italy is known for its highly advanced and rigorous healthcare system, and its doctors and specialists routinely perform highly sophisticated procedures and surgeries," said one retiree in Italy.
"Healthcare services in Milan are of high quality, with access to both public and private options. The public healthcare system provides comprehensive coverage, including general practitioners, specialists, and hospital care, at low cost. However, wait times for non-urgent services can be long and many expats choose to use private healthcare for faster access and more personalized service," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How do I meet people in Italy?
When we asked people living in Italy about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"-For Books try FNAC on Via 20 September -For Curry try the Asian Super Markets along from Porto Antico toward Station Principe -For Ex-Pats try the English Bar off a side street Nr Piazza di Ferrari (on left as you head towards Via Garibaldi," said a person in Genoa.
"Expats in Italy can join local interest groups that meet in cities, such as book clubs, language exchanges, and walking tours. Expats can also look for nearby music and arts events, as well as church meetings and relevant cultural events. Expats can even meet people by visiting local markets and exploring popular tourist spots. Additionally, many cities have Meetup groups or specialized expat groups to help connect foreign newcomers to the area. Finally, many expats join business networks and associations, which can create positive work relationships and personal connections," remarked one retiree in Italy.
"Meeting people in Milan can be facilitated by joining expat groups, attending language classes, and participating in social events organized by international communities. Engaging in local activities, such as joining a gym, taking cooking classes, or participating in cultural events, can also help you connect with both locals and fellow expats," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What is life like in Italy?
When we asked people living in Italy what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Good living, socializing, arts and festivals. Good wine town. The true "secret" of Italy is the connections people have with each other. It's also a good way to learn the language...fast," said a person in Fiesole.

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do I need to know before retiring in Italy?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Italy, they said:
"I found the Milanese reserved, but after a while when they see you want to really integrate yourself in their society, they became really friendly. As far as shopkeepers and medical personnel, they are super. Although I spend most of my time in Suditalia, I really love Milano," said one retiree in Italy.
"Before retiring in Italy, it's important to understand the residency and visa requirements. Also, research the cost of living, which can vary significantly between regions, with northern cities generally being more expensive than southern or rural areas, and consider healthcare services, as access and quality may differ across regions. Finally, it's beneficial to visit potential retirement locations to assess amenities, climate, and community fit," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"It is important to research the cost of living in the area you are looking to retire. Italy is generally a more expensive country to live and certain locations have higher property taxes than other areas. It is also important to research the healthcare system and see if you would need international or private healthcare. It is beneficial to learn some Italian before moving, as English may not be as widely spoken as in other parts of Europe. It is also worth researching the pension and tax system to ensure that the money you receive from home can be used to supplement your income. Consider banking and money transfers, as well as sources of legal advice that may be available for you access. Lastly, researching potential locations for retirement and the amenities and activities in the area can help you make the best decision for you," explained one retiree living in Italy.
What type of recreational activities are there in Italy?
"In Italy, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and gardens. There are also many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of museums, galleries, and theaters. Italy also has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants. Additionally, there are many sports facilities, such as soccer fields, tennis courts, and golf courses. Finally, Italy is home to many ski resorts, offering a variety of winter activities," remarked one retiree in Italy.
"Milan offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including parks, sports complexes, gyms, and swimming pools. The city has numerous fitness centers and specialized sports clubs for activities like tennis, football, and martial arts. For cultural recreation, the city offers theaters, cinemas, museums, and galleries. Additionally, nearby lakes and mountains provide opportunities for weekend getaways and outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Italy?
"In Milan, groceries can be purchased from various supermarkets such as Esselunga, Carrefour, and Coop, which offer a wide range of products. Local markets, on the other hand, provide fresh produce, meats, and cheeses, offering a more traditional shopping experience. For other shopping needs, Milan boasts numerous shopping districts, including the upscale Quadrilatero della Moda, Corso Buenos Aires, and various malls like CityLife and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"People living in Italy typically buy groceries from local markets, supermarkets, and specialty stores. They also do other shopping at department stores, boutiques, and online retailers. Additionally, many people in Italy enjoy shopping at local street markets, where they can find fresh produce, handmade goods, and other unique items," said one member in Italy.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Italy?
- How do I find a place to live in Italy?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Italy?
- What is the average cost of housing in Italy?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Italy?
- What should I pack when moving to Italy?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Italy?
- Why do people move to Italy?
- How are healthcare services in Italy?
- What are medical services in Italy like?
- What are typical rents in Italy?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?