From Monarchies, Republics, Empires and all the legacy. Literature, architectural marvels, and legal systems still echo, finally, the civilisation we know today. It’s easy to get baffled by all the knowledge that has flourished within those cities. Every street you turn bombards your eyes with stunning architecture and art.
If I rotated a globe to find my next stop, my mind would repeat nonstop, “Italy! Italy! Italy!”. As foreigners, we don’t need too many reasons to love this place, but if you need a bit more convincing, stay with me through this dive into it to discover the seven cheapest cities in Italy to live in.
When we need to stretch finances to move houses internationally, whether to fulfil a dream or attend a job opportunity, it is more than reasonable to start our house hunt for the cheapest place to buy in Italy. Affordable housing and overall expenses are the main concerns surrounding our thoughts. See below the list of cities and reasons why they are the cheapest and best ones to live as an expat.
It is not one of the most famous favourite cities in Italy. Still, it is a favourite for the possibility of authentically experiencing a wide range of cultural programs, the majestic cuisine and life as an authentic Italian without breaking the bank. Sicily’s vibrant capital offers a unique blend of rich history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean landscapes at a fraction of the cost of Italy’s northern cities. Its affordable housing, delicious street food, and warm, welcoming community make it a top choice.
Nestled in the Veneto region, Padova is a hidden gem with a lively atmosphere, thanks to its large student population. It boasts one of Europe’s oldest universities and beautiful historic sites, and it’s as beautiful and has a lower cost of living as nearby Venice. It’s ideal for expats who appreciate a city rich in culture and education but with a more manageable budget.
As a lively capital by the Adriatic Sea, Bari combines beachside living with the vibrancy of city life. It’s known for its old town, delicious seafood, and lower living costs, especially regarding rent. Bari is perfect for expats looking for a dynamic yet chill seaside city.
Beyond just the Leaning Tower, Pisa offers a high quality of life with its excellent education system, thriving local economy, and reasonable living expenses. Its size makes it easy to navigate, yet it’s packed with culture and activities, making it an attractive option for those seeking cheap places to live in Italy with a balance between city and academic life.
Located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Bologna is an Italian food heaven. It offers a rich cultural scene with its historic centre, medieval towers, and the oldest university in the Western world. Despite its many attractions, Bologna remains relatively affordable, especially when venturing outside the city centre, providing ex-pats with a high quality of life.
Often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is famed for its baroque architecture, warm climate, and welcoming locals. It’s significantly cheaper than Italy’s more northern cities, offering a relaxed lifestyle, great food, and a rich cultural scene, all while being close to some of Puglia’s best beaches.
Naples offers a lively urban experience with one of the lowest living costs in Italy. Known for its historic sites, world-class pizza, and vibrant streets, Naples is a city of contrasts and passion. It’s an ideal spot for expats who want to immerse themselves in a profound cultural experience while enjoying the affordability of southern Italy.
Each city provides a unique Italian experience with the expected benefits of lower living costs, rich cultural offerings, and friendly communities, making them ideal for expats seeking an affordable Italian adventure.
One of our clients shared their experience getting his CID – Carta di Identità Elettronica (The Electronic Identity Card).
– I’ve been living in Southern Italy for three years now. I remember my first trip to the post office as if it were yesterday. As soon as I arrived, I gave an enthusiastic greeting to the lady behind the desk, I wanted to know if I was in the right departament. The lady barely looked at me, and I continued talking, “May I see your Identification?” she cut me. I handed it to her. She kept reading the information through the document until she got her eyes on the part where the place of birth was, and she started smiling. The questions about the UK were non-stop, “What is it like to live there? What are you here for? Is your family here as well?”. I was impressed by the change of attitude as she acknowledged where I was from. I felt thankful for being from the UK. Whether my Britishness changed her mood, my process happened without more trouble.
– The UK is somehow alluring to us Italians, the admiration for their politeness, musical background, sports (especially football) and many other aspects. A home away from home, as I heard close friends mention a couple of times. The allure Great Britain brings us is powerful.
We want to share a report from another client with you, He had to make a quick move to settle himself and his family down when he got an offer for a better position at his job.
The fight or flight mode hit the front door, and George had to go. Not wanting to leave his family behind, but also not wanting to make a lousy choice buying a house without further thinking.
Our client decided to book a few nights in an Airbnb just to put things into perspective. After contacting VanOne International Movers to make his customs clearance and relocation, they had some of the essential belongings stored in a warehouse in Italy.
It was the best decision he had ever made. As researching online didn’t do much for him, being physically there made it easier to check the area, prices, structure, etc.
And it was by word of mouth, the old but gold way of finding out where the good deals are. He found a fully furnished, three-bedroom house, with a nice backyard, not in the centre, but not too far from the city, for 700 euros per month.
In conclusion, Italy offers a mosaic of experiences for UK citizens looking for an affordable yet enriching living abroad. From the vibrant streets of Palermo to the academic vibes of Pisa, each city presents a unique blend of culture, history, and lifestyle, all while keeping the living costs low. These cities provide an escape from the high expenses of the UK and offer a chance to dive deep into Italian culture, with its warm communities and rich heritage. Moreover, the connection between Italy and the UK adds a layer of comfort for British expats, making the transition more accessible and welcoming. Whether it’s the allure of Italian cuisine, the charm of ancient streets, or the welcoming attitude towards UK citizens, Italy remains a top choice for those seeking a change without sacrificing the quality of life. So, if you’re searching for a new home that promises adventure without breaking the bank, these seven cities in Italy could be your next destination.
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