Is Italy a good place to retire? Italy is often referred to as one of the best countries in the world to retire to for various reasons. This so called 'golden age' is the perfect time to enjoy a hard-earned life of leisure and leave the world of work behind, and Italy is the country of choice for many expats from all over the world, including British, American and German pensioners, amongst others. Let's find out why retiring in Italy is such a popular option, as well as where to retire in Italy in 2024.
Italy, with its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine, has long been a dream destination for retirees seeking a fulfilling and enjoyable lifestyle. From charming Tuscan villages to vibrant coastal towns, the country offers a myriad of options for those looking to spend their golden years in la dolce vita. Here, we delve into some of the best places to retire in Italy by region, each offering its own unique charm and appeal, as well as looking at some other important information about retiring in Italy.
Where is the best place to retire in Italy?
Choosing the perfect retirement destination in Italy is a deeply personal decision, influenced by individual preferences, lifestyle priorities, and budget considerations. Whether you're drawn to the cultural riches of Tuscany, the coastal allure of Liguria, or the rustic charm of Apulia, Italy offers a wealth of options for retirees seeking to embark on a new chapter in one of the most captivating countries in the world.
Sicily
Sicily is a great retirement region for pensioners who are retiring on a tighter budget in 2024. This island region in the south of Italy has something for everyone: as well as having some of the lowest living costs in Italy, this stunning region is also home to world-famous gastronomy, beautiful beaches and a relaxed lifestyle.
Sicily is also home to some of Italy’s most pleasant weather which also makes it one of the best places to retire in Italy, where winters are generally mild with the odd rainy day, while summers are hot. The climate in spring and autumn is warm and sunny, and widely regarded as “ideal” by those who already live in the area.
Apulia
Apulia is home to a number of coastal towns and cities such as Monopoli, Brindisi and the regional capital of Bari, as well as a beautiful coastline which is dotted with smaller towns and villages, each with its own beauty and charm. The local Apulian people stand out as some of the friendliest and most welcoming in Italy, and are said to be especially patient and helpful with those who do not speak Italian. This is something that greatly helps pensioners that move to the area and is helping the area to have a growing expat and retiree community.
Apulia often escapes the radar of tourists and precisely for this reason, the area is increasingly popular with pensioners as retirees in the region can expect a tranquil experience, although this also means that there is a smaller expat community. Known for its fresh, local cuisine, pensioners who choose Apulia are also in for a delicious lifestyle, and addition to the gastronomy, the cost of living is also lower than other Italian regions.
Abruzzo
Stunning mountains, beautiful scenery, great food and friendly locals are the things that stand out in the Italian region of Abruzzo. Like Apulia, the region doesn’t attract as many tourists as other areas of Italy and has something for everyone: charming cities and beaches, as well as spectacular countryside, all just a short distance from the Apennine Mountains.
The expat community is also smaller, making this the perfect region for those pensioners who want a truly authentic retirement experience in Italy.
Tuscany
If your retirement plan involves sipping local wine, then Tuscany is the perfect region for you. Expats who have already moved to this part of Italy are in love with its rolling green landscape, extensive vineyards and unbeatable chianti wine.
The capital of this region is the well known city of Florence, another location which is rich in history, as well as boasting a thriving expat community. And that's certainly not all: the region also has popular beaches, providing pensioners retiring in Italy with an idyllic combination of culture, wine and natural beauty.
Lazio
Lazio, the region which is home to Italy’s capital city Rome, couldn’t be left off the list of the best places to retire in Italy. This region, and the capital, are especially popular with retirees who prioritise healthcare and a large expat community, with a wide range of private and public hospitals to choose from, as well as an extensive English-speaking community.
The capital is also home to one of the highest costs of living in Italy; buying and renting property is generally more expensive compared to the rest of the country, for example. Expats who are after a livelier retirement, however, recommend the region which is also steeped in history and culture.
Lombardy
For those after a luxurious retirement full of relaxation and cultural opportunities, then Lombardy, home to the fashionable city of Milan, could be the perfect destination for you. Expats who have moved to Lombardy rave about the lively cultural scene, the rich history and architectural delights on offer, and of course the wide range of luxury shops to choose from in Milan, not to mention the spectacular areas of natural beauty close by, such as Lake Como.
Along with Lazio, the Lombardy region is also known for its more expensive cost of living, with property prices on the rise.
Liguria
For retirees drawn to the sea, Liguria offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty and Mediterranean charm. The picturesque towns of Portofino, Cinque Terre, and Santa Margherita Ligure boast colourful facades, crystal-clear waters, and fresh seafood delicacies. With a mild climate year-round, retirees can enjoy leisurely walks along the seaside promenades, explore scenic hiking trails, and soak up the region's laid-back atmosphere.
The cost of living and house prices in Liguria can vary depending on factors such as location, property type, and proximity to amenities and the coast. Generally, Liguria is considered to have a moderate to high cost of living compared to other regions in Italy, primarily due to its popularity among tourists and expats, as well as its desirable coastal lifestyle.
Where to retire in Italy: cheap destinations
Retiring in Italy on a budget is feasible, with several regions offering affordable living options. Regions like Abruzzo, Calabria, and Sicily provide picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and lower living expenses compared to more touristy areas. These regions boast charming villages, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine, allowing retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Additionally, Molise offers tranquillity and affordability, with many cheap places to retire, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retirement away from the crowds.
For even greater affordability, retirees can explore smaller towns and rural areas within popular regions like Tuscany or Umbria. Embracing the slower pace of life in these areas while taking advantage of local markets for fresh produce and goods can further stretch the retirement budget. With careful planning and research, retirees can find affordable and fulfilling retirement options in Italy, whether they're drawn to the rolling hills of Abruzzo, the sandy beaches of Apulia, or the historic charm of Sicily.
Retiring in Italy pros and cons
Retiring in Italy offers numerous pros and cons, which should be carefully considered before making a decision:
Pros of retiring in Italy:
- Culture and Lifestyle: Rich cultural heritage, vibrant lifestyle, and delicious cuisine.
- Scenic Beauty: Breathtaking landscapes for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Healthcare: Quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to some countries.
- Cultural Experiences: Endless opportunities for concerts, festivals, and wine tasting.
- Community and Social Life: Warm hospitality and meaningful connections with locals and expatriates.
Cons of retiring in Italy:
- Bureaucracy: Dealing with Italian bureaucracy can be challenging.
- Cost of Living: Certain regions can be expensive; careful budgeting required.
- Language Barrier: Communication challenges, especially in rural areas.
- Infrastructure: Occasionally inconsistent, especially in rural areas.
- Climate: Variable weather, with hot summers and colder winters.
Overall, retiring in Italy offers a unique blend of culture, scenery, and lifestyle, but it's essential for retirees to weigh the pros and cons carefully and plan accordingly to ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement experience.
What you need to know if you want to retire to Italy in 2024
How to retire in Italy as a foreigner: retiring in Italy in 2024 is a fairly straightforward process if you are an EU citizen, making the country a particularly attractive option for pensioners. If you are a citizen from outside the European Union, including the UK now that Brexit has already happened, then the process is more complicated but by no means impossible: you will require an entry visa to retire in Italy, a process that will have to be undertaken at the Italian Embassy in your home country before moving.
As part of this process, you will also have to be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient income to fund your basic living costs. If you are planning to retire in Italy, whether you’re from the EU or beyond, there are several important aspects you must consider such as the retirement residency law, healthcare, tax information and visas. For all the information, check out our guide on retiring in Italy for expats.
Can I still retire to Italy after Brexit?
Living in Italy after Brexit for retirees who are UK citizens involves several considerations, particularly regarding residency, healthcare, pensions, and financial matters. Here's a breakdown of what retirees need to know:
- Residency: UK retirees who were legally resident in Italy before December 31, 2020, have the right to continue living in Italy. They need to apply for a new residency permit, which may involve registering with the local authorities and providing documentation to prove their residency status. Retirees should ensure they have the appropriate documentation to demonstrate their eligibility for residency.
- Healthcare: UK retirees who are legal residents in Italy before the end of the Brexit transition period (December 31, 2020) have the right to access healthcare through the Italian national health system. They will need to register for a health card (Tessera Sanitaria) and may be required to pay certain contributions or fees. Retirees should familiarise themselves with the process for accessing healthcare in Italy and ensure they are registered with the appropriate authorities.
- Pensions: UK retirees living in Italy may receive their UK state pension and any private pensions as usual. However, they should be aware of potential changes to pension arrangements, taxation, and currency exchange rates following Brexit. It's advisable for retirees to seek advice from a financial adviser who can provide guidance on managing pensions and financial matters in Italy.
- Financial Matters: UK retirees living in Italy may need to consider how Brexit affects their banking, taxation, and other financial matters. Changes to regulations governing these areas may impact retirees' rights and obligations in Italy. Retirees should ensure they are compliant with any new requirements and seek professional advice if necessary.
- Visas: UK retirees who wish to move to Italy after Brexit may need to apply for a visa or permit depending on their circumstances. Retirees should familiarise themselves with the visa requirements for long-term residency in Italy and ensure they meet the necessary criteria. It's essential to plan ahead and understand the visa application process to avoid any delays or complications.
Overall, while Brexit has brought some changes for UK retirees living in Italy, many rights and benefits are still protected under agreements between the UK and the EU. Retirees should stay informed about any developments that may affect their residency status, healthcare, pensions, and financial matters, and seek professional advice if needed to ensure a smooth transition to living in Italy after Brexit.
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