18 de July, 2024
Dream of living in Italy, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, immersed in rich history and culture, and indulging in cuisine that has conquered the world? Italian “dolce vita” is calling you, and here’s the detail: you don’t need to spend rivers of money to make this dream come true! Embark on a journey through charming places where Italian charm meets affordability. Here we present 5 cheap cities in Italy to live with a good quality of life at an accessible cost. Places where you can enjoy the coveted Italian lifestyle while spending less.
Before introducing you to these havens of beauty and economy, let’s contextualize the cost of living in Italy. Indeed, cities like Milan, Rome, and Venice boast higher prices. But the good news is that Italy offers several options for those seeking an authentic lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Are you ready to be enchanted?
Also read: Main cities of Italy
Italy has a fairly friendly cost of living compared to many of its European neighbors. Nevertheless, living in Italy is slightly more expensive than in countries like Portugal (+22%) or Spain (+25%). You can make this comparison with the help of specialized websites such as Numbeo or Expatistan.
Like any other country, Italy has variations in expenses, and rent is one of the key factors to consider.
Large and touristy cities like Milan, Rome, and Venice have higher prices. But it doesn’t stop there! In Italy, university cities can also be a challenge for your budget. This is the case in Padua and Bologna, where rent is typically higher due to high demand for housing.
If buying property is in your plans, as of July 2024, the average selling price of property in Italy is around €2,438 per square meter, according to Numbeo.
Here are some other interesting figures:
Realizing your goal of living in Europe or obtaining European citizenship can be simpler than you think. We offer personalized support to make the immigration process more accessible and uncomplicated.
Living in Italy is a dream for many. In less touristy cities, you’ll find a more relaxed pace of life and friendlier prices. This is because the demand for tourism is lower, easing the pressure on the real estate market and other costs. These peripheral cities are a great option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing comfort and safety.
Below, we list our recommendations.
Palermo is the fifth largest city in Italy and is embraced by the Mediterranean Sea on the northern coast of the island. It boasts an international airport, Falcone Borsellino, located approximately 45 km from the city center.
Palermo was designated the Italian Capital of Culture in 2018. Its current population is around 650,000 inhabitants. The Palermitan community is known for its hospitality and warmth. Speaking of warmth, the region has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters with plenty of rainfall. Another positive point for this destination, perfect for those who appreciate sunny days and pleasant temperatures.
As the birthplace of Sicilian cuisine, Palermo is also a paradise for food lovers, with typical dishes such as pasta alla Norma, arancino, and cannoli.
For those planning to study, the city is home to the prestigious Università degli Studi di Palermo, with over 200 years of history, along with other quality higher education institutions. All of this creates a youthful and intellectually stimulating environment.
If you are an art enthusiast, Palermo thrives with cultural life! Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city offers art museums like the Galleria Regionale della Sicilia, historic theaters like the Teatro Massimo, as well as operas, festivals, and folk traditions.
In Palermo, according to Expatisan, the cost of living for a family of four is estimated at €2,717 per month.
| Expense | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sq ft) furnished accommodation | €824 |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas…) for 2 people in 85 m2 apartment | €102 |
| Monthly public transportation pass | €44 |
Pescara is another recommended destination, listed among the cheapest Italian cities. It’s a charming place located on the stunning Adriatic Coast and bordered by the river of the same name. With a population of approximately 120,000 inhabitants, this is yet another example of a balance between the tranquility of a small town and the conveniences of a modern city. Abruzzo International Airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center, facilitating travel to other parts of Europe and beyond.
Pescara’s Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, makes it a pleasant destination year-round. Its golden sandy beaches invite relaxing days by the sea, while the region’s mountains offer opportunities for exploring nature.
Pescara also has a significant university presence, although it does not boast internationally famous ancient universities like some other Italian cities. The main institution of higher education in Pescara is the “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, founded in 1960. This university has campuses in both Pescara and Chieti, another nearby city.
Economically, Pescara has a solid foundation in trade, services, and tourism. The Port of Pescara plays a vital role in the local economy, while technology and service companies have found a favorable environment to grow.
In Pescara, the cost of living for a family of four is estimated at €2,904 per month, according to Expatisan.
| Expense | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sq ft) furnished accommodation | €840 |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas…) for 2 people in 85 m2 apartment | €114 |
| Monthly public transportation pass | €33 |
Looking for a nature retreat? In the northeastern mountains of Italy, specifically in Veneto region, Belluno enjoys a spectacular setting at the foot of the Dolomites Alps. It has a small population of around 36,000 inhabitants, offering a blend of stunning nature and rich history.
The climate is alpine, with mild summers and cold, snowy winters, creating a perfect environment for winter sports enthusiasts and those who appreciate the tranquility of the mountains year-round.
The city of Belluno is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, with narrow streets and picturesque squares that invite exploration. Belluno Cathedral, with its Gothic façade and Baroque interior, is one of the city’s most impressive landmarks.
Belluno has a tradition in dairy production and cheeses, such as the famous Piave cheese. Tourism also plays a significant role in the local economy, attracting visitors throughout the year to enjoy the natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
Belluno is well-connected by roads and trains, providing easy access to other parts of Italy and Europe. However, in terms of air travel, it’s good to know that the nearest airport in Venice is about 100 km away.
| Expense | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sq ft) furnished accommodation | €850 |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas…) for 2 people in 85 m2 apartment | €160 |
| Monthly public transportation pass | €40 |
Ranked among the most affordable places in Italy, Bari is an irresistible option!! It offers the best of both worlds: a rich cultural heritage, a welcoming community, pleasant climate, and strategic location, making it an ideal place to live.
Located in the region of Apulia, in southern Italy (the heel of the boot), Bari is the capital of the eponymous province and one of the main cities on the Adriatic coast. As an important port city, Bari plays a vital role in the local economy, generating jobs and attracting investments. Recently, the city has become a hub for startups and technology companies, thanks to investments and initiatives supporting entrepreneurship, in addition to being a significant center for conferences and business fairs.
With a population of 320,000 inhabitants, Bari is the second largest city in southern Italy, behind only Naples. The city has a growing expatriate community, many attracted by the mild climate, with hot summers and mild winters, allowing for beach outings and outdoor activities for most of the year.
Bari also enchants with its beautiful historic center, “Bari Vecchia,” with its narrow cobblestone streets, ancient churches, the famous Norman-Swabian Castle, and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, an important Christian pilgrimage site.
For those wishing to study in Italy, Bari is home to the University of Bari Aldo Moro, founded in 1925. The institution offers a wide range of courses and is renowned especially in the fields of medicine, law, and economics.
Bari Karol Wojtyła International Airport is located approximately 10 km from the city center.
| Expense | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sq ft) furnished accommodation | €800 |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas…) for 2 people in 85 m2 apartment | €146 |
| Monthly public transportation pass | €33 |
In central Italy, in the Umbria region, we find Perugia, located about 150 km from Rome or Florence. Famous for its picturesque hills and lush valleys, this is a university city with friendly costs and a tranquil pace of life.
The city is home to the renowned University of Perugia, one of Italy’s oldest, founded in 1308. The Università per Stranieri di Perugia has a solid reputation, especially in the fields of medicine, law, and economics. Additionally, it is famous for its courses in Italian language and culture, attracting many international students.
The size of this city is ideal: with a population of 170,000 inhabitants, it is large enough to have all the amenities of a metropolis, yet still retains the charm of a small town. Its climate is pleasant. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C, while winter temperatures range between 5°C and 10°C.
Perugia is known for its medieval architecture, cultural festivals, and local cuisine. It boasts a well-preserved historic center with cobblestone streets, Renaissance palaces, and ancient churches like the Cathedral of San Lorenzo. The city also has a historical connection with Saint Francis of Assisi, who was born near the city. The Perugia Jazz Festival, held in the summer, is one of the city’s most important cultural events, attracting musicians and jazz enthusiasts from around the world. Additionally, Eurochocolate, a festival dedicated to chocolate, celebrates the joy of sweets with events and tastings. Speaking of which, chocolate and wine represent a significant part of the local economy. Perugina, famous for producing Baci chocolates, is one of the city’s most recognized brands.
| Expense | Value |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sq ft) furnished accommodation | €700 |
| Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas…) for 2 people in 85 m2 apartment | €163 |
| Monthly public transportation pass | €50 |
What are the most expensive cities in Italy? This data is crucial for gaining a better understanding of the economy that can be achieved by opting for more economical destinations.
For instance, Milan stands out as the most expensive Italian city, with prices comparable to other major European cities. Conversely, southern cities like Naples and Palermo offer significantly lower costs. Currently, the cost of living index in Milan is 21% higher than the national average.
According to Expatisan, the most expensive cities in Italy are:
The advantages are numerous and extend beyond the stunning beauty of the country. Italy offers:
When considering these options, it’s important to evaluate all aspects of your daily life. While some of these locations may be more economical, they may offer fewer job opportunities or fewer services and amenities compared to major urban centers. Therefore, understanding your goals is crucial.
To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
To live in Italy without Italian citizenship, there are several visa options that allow temporary or permanent residency, depending on your specific situation. Here are the main and most popular paths:
Each type of visa has specific requirements regarding documentation, financial proof, and other criteria that must be met. Speak with Atlantic Bridge consultants to discover the ideal visa for your case. Click here to request assistance!
Author:
Silvia Resende
