8 Best Places to Retire in Italy

Many reasons make Italy the perfect location for a retiree’s home. For one, its long history of political stability means your investment will not go to waste. Secondly, the country is well-served by a railway network, meaning that Transportation to and from many locations is fast, easy, and affordable. Lastly, as a place to retire, almost every place you settle upon is pretty close to somewhere with deep art, culture, architecture, a good climate and how can we forget about the Italian food!!

So, picking on any given place will not be easy. My husband and I live in Italy and we have built our family home here in Rome, we love it so far but we are also looking towards purchasing a second home south of Italy, preferably Puglia and Sicily regions, closer to the beach, where it’s slightly cheaper and warmer during winter. I tried to make a list of the criteria I would go for in picking somewhere to spend my golden years and based on that, picked out about a dozen locations I thought made for the perfect retirement home. I’ll break it down for you the top places to retire in Italy by region.

Hello, I am Lucia, I have written travel articles here on my website and YouTube videos on my channel all around Italy since I moved here years ago, and I share all the Italian travel guides for visiting this gorgeous country. Hope you find my blog informational and well-written.

1. Puglia

A. Climate & Weather

• The Mediterranean climate makes Puglia one of the best places to live in Italy because of the hot and dry Summer, and mild Winter.
• Hottest month: July (24^°C – 30^°C)
• Coldest month: January (7^°C – 11^°C)
• Driest month: June (2mm of rainfall)
• Wettest month: November (47mm of rain)
• Summer Sunshine hours: avg. 10-11 hrs
• Winter Sunshine hours: avg. 4-5 hrs
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 24-26°C

B. Cost of Living:

• 1-bedroom apartments go for €500 – €1000 per month
• 2-bedroom apartments go for €800 – €1500 per month
• 1-bedroom apartments cost between 30, 000 – 100, 000 €s.
• Terraced homes, trulli, and villas go for 150, 000 – 180, 000 €s.
• Food (especially seafood) is cheap. Moreso in winter when there are fewer tourists.
• Monthly expenses are also what make Puglia one of the best places to retire in Italy. Weekly groceries can be as low as €6. Aperitif can go as high as €3. Wines can be as low as 2 €s. Olive oil can go to 20 €s.
• Organic fruits becoming more popular in local farms so cheap.

C. Population Dynamics:

• Expats: Small communities in coastal towns like Ostuni and Gallipoli for the relaxed lifestyle and Mediterranean climate.
• Digital Nomads: Few, attracted to cities like Bari and Lecce for cultural experiences and affordability.
• Retirees: Significant presence, especially in Alberobello and Polignano a Mare. This is because the sunny weather, picturesque landscapes, and affordable cost of living make Puglia one of the best places to retire in Italy.
• English Usage: Limited outside tourist areas, more common in larger cities like Bari and Lecce due to tourism and international communities.

D. Amenities & Lifestyle

• Transportation: Well-connected by road networks, limited public Transportation. Major cities like Bari and Lecce have train stations.
• Communication: Good internet and mobile coverage throughout. Postal services are available in urban and rural areas.
• Hospitals: Hospitals and medical facilities in cities like Bari, Lecce, and Brindisi offer comprehensive healthcare services, especially towards the elderly and retirees looking for the best places to retire in Italy.
• Supermarkets: Major chains like Conad, Eurospin, and Lidl are present in urban and suburban areas. Local markets offer fresh produce.
• Golf Courses: Limited but available, such as San Domenico Golf in Fasano and Acaya Golf Resort in Lecce.
• Other Amenities: Beautiful beaches, cultural sites like Alberobello’s trulli make for good variety for retirees seeking good best places to retire in Italy.

E. Crime Rate

• Low. Crime impacting retirees and residents is usually relegated to petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft of unsecured materials.
• Recent news about organized crime is of concern though.
• Local police and communities work together to reduce crimes impacting retirees and residents.

2. Sicily

A. Climate & Weather

• Sicily’s Mediterranean climate is also what makes her one of the best places to retire in Italy.
• Hottest month: August (25°C to 35°C)
• Coldest month: January (8°C to 14°C)
• Driest month: July (10 mm)
• Wettest month: November (90-100 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10 to 11 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4 to 5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 25-27°C

B. Cost of Living

• Weekly Cost of Groceries: For one person: Approximately €40 to €60. For a family of four: Approximately €150 to €200.
• Average Prices of Rental Houses and Apartments are comparable to others on this list of best places to retire in Italy:

• One-bedroom apartment in the city center: €400 to €600 per month.
• One-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €300 to €450 per month.
• Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: €700 to €1,000 per month.
• Three-bedroom apartment outside the city center: €500 to €750 per month.
• Standalone house rental: €800 to €1,200 per month.
• Apartment in the city center: €1,500 to €3,000 per square meter.
• Apartment outside the city center: €1,000 to €2,000 per square meter.
• House in the city center: €2,000 to €4,000 per square meter.
• House outside the city center: €1,500 to €3,000 per square meter.
• Villa: €300,000 to €1,000,000.

C. Population Dynamics

• Most expats are found in coastal towns like Taormina and Cefalù, and mostly come from Northern Europe for the Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Digital Nomads have a limited presence in urban hubs like Palermo and Catania and prefer such areas for their varied origins in terms of cultural richness.
• Retirees have a significant presence in towns like Syracuse and Ragusa. They are mainly from Northern Europe and looking for sunny climate and lower living costs. Support communities can be found on online platforms and social media. They usually go by phrases like “Expat Sicily” and “Retire in Sicily”.
• English Usage is limited outside tourist areas and more prevalent in cities like Palermo and Catania due to tourism and international communities. Many retirees seek out language schools and translation services in their early days here. In many ways, Sicily’s cosmopolitan makes it ideal as one of the best places to retire in Italy as many are in the same position of having to understand each other.

D. Amenities & Lifestyle

• Transportation: Sicily is favored among retirees looking for the best places to retire in Italy because of its well-connected roads. However, Sicily also has limited public Transportation.
• Hospitals: Sicily’s major cities have modern medical facilities in cities like Palermo, Catania, and Siracusa that can cater to special needs retirees usually have.
• Supermarkets: There are major chains like Conad and Eurospin in urban and rural areas in Sicily, making shopping easy for retirees in Sicily.
• Golf Courses: Options include Verdura Golf & Spa Resort in Sciacca and Il Picciolo Golf Club near Mount Etna.
• Other Amenities: Beaches, cultural sites, restaurants, and cafes offer recreational opportunities for retirees.

E. Crime Rate

• Moderate. Crime is mostly petty such as pickpocketing and theft.
• Mafia presence does not impact residents and tourists.
• Communities among retirees tend to work together to enhance local protections.

3. Calabria

A. Climate & Weather

Calabria’s warmer weather is pretty good when looking for places to retire in Italy, and probably because of the relatively higher humidity here.

• Hottest month: July (28°C to 34°C)
• Coldest month: January (8°C to 14°C)
• Driest month: July (less than 10 mm)
• Wettest month: December (100-120 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10 to 11 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4 to 5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 25-27°C

B. Cost of Living

• Weekly Cost of Groceries: For one person: €30-€50. For a family of four: €120-€180.
• Average Prices of Rental Houses and Apartments:
  • One-bedroom apartment in the city center: €300-€500 per month.
  • Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: €500-€800 per month.
  • Apartment in the city center: €1,000-€2,000 per square meter.
  • House outside the city center: €1,200-€2,500 per square meter.

C. Population Dynamics:

• Expats can be found in coastal towns like Tropea and Pizzo; mainly coming from Northern Europe for the Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Digital Nomads have a limited presence and are attracted to cities such as Reggio Calabria and Cosenza for their affordability, and good internet connectivity, and cultural experiences.
• Retirees have the most significant population in towns like Scalea and Diamante because of the sunny climate, relaxed atmosphere, and affordable living costs that make the region pretty good as a place to retire in Italy. They are predominantly from Northern Europe. There are also online support communities that go by the usual names such as “Expats in Calabria” and “Retire in Calabria”.
• English usage is limited outside of tourist areas, and more common in larger cities like Reggio Calabria and Cosenza due to tourism and international communities. Retirees in Italy usually use language schools and translation services to ease communication with locals.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Transportation: Extensive road networks, bus and train services, major airports in Palermo, Catania, and Trapani.
• Communication: Reliable internet and mobile coverage, postal services available.
• Hospitals: Public and private medical facilities in major cities like Palermo, Catania, and Messina make the region good among places to retire in Italy .
• Supermarkets: Major chains like Coop and Conad, local markets in urban and rural areas.
• Golf Courses: Various options including Il Picciolo Golf Club near Mount Etna and Verdura Golf & Spa Resort in Sciacca.
• Other Amenities: Beaches, hiking trails, cultural sites, restaurants, and cafes.

E. Crime Rate

• Sicily has a moderate crime rate compared to other regions in Italy.
• Retirees generally find Sicily safe for daily living.
• Supportive communities enhance safety for retirees.
• Choosing secure neighborhoods is key to peace of mind.
• Law Enforcement has enhanced efforts to contribute to maintaining safety for residents.

4. Lazio

A. Climate and Weather

• Hottest month: July (average temperature: 30°C)
• Coldest month: January (average temperature: 8°C)
• Driest month: July (average rainfall: 15 mm)
• Wettest month: November (average rainfall: 100 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10-11 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4-5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 22-24°C

B. Cost of Living

Slightly higher cost of living in Lazio, but overall, the proximity to Rome makes Lazio one of the best places to retire in Italy for many.

• Weekly cost of groceries: €50-€70 for one person, €150-€200 for a family of four.
• Average rental prices: One-bedroom apartment in the city center: €800-€1000/month. Three-bedroom apartment in the city center: €1500-€2000/month.
• Average prices for properties for sale: Apartment: €3000-€4000/square meter. House: €3500-€5000/square meter.

C. Population Dynamics

• Expats are concentrated in cities like Rome and coastal areas such as Anzio and Ostia. The diverse origins make Lazio one of the best places to retire in Italy, and many are attracted by the cultural richness and job opportunities found in the region.
• Digital Nomads are few and mainly found in urban centers like Rome and Civitavecchia. They are drawn to the vibrant atmosphere and digital infrastructure present in the highly developed area.
• Retirees are mainly found in towns like Viterbo and Rieti for the mild climate, historic charm, and lower cost of living. Most are mainly from Northern Europe. Support communities go by common names like “Expats Living in Rome” and “Retire in Italy”.
• English usage is limited outside tourist areas. The more common in cities like Rome and Viterbo see English in fairly good use due to international communities and tourism. Retirees in Italy mostly use language schools and translation services to get around easily.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Transportation: As one of the best places to retire in Italy, Lazio has well-connected road and rail networks, including the Rome Metro. There are local buses that serve rural areas where many retirees in Italy have bought or renovated homes.
• Communication: Lazio has good internet and mobile coverage, especially in urban centers like Rome and Latina.
• Hospitals: There are many modern medical facilities in cities like Rome (Gemelli Hospital), Tivoli, and Viterbo. There are also multiple public and private options available. Those looking for the best places to live in Italy for retirees see Lazio as one of the best options in terms of affordable medical services.
• Supermarkets: Lazio also has major supermarket chains like Carrefour and Auchan in urban and suburban areas, while the surrounding local markets offer fresh produce.
• Golf Courses: Options include Marco Simone Golf & Country Club near Rome and Golf Nazionale in Sutri.
• Dance Halls for the Old: Some venues in Rome offer dance classes and social events tailored for seniors.
• Other Social Amenities: Numerous cultural sites, parks, restaurants, and cafes provide recreational opportunities for retirees looking for places to retire in Italy.

E. Crime Rates

• Crime Rate in Lazio, Italy: Moderate compared to other regions.
• Impact on Retirees: Some concerns, especially regarding petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft in tourist areas such as Rome. Here’s an article on SCAMS IN ROME …

5. Molise

A. Climate and Weather

• Hottest month: July (average temperature: 30°C)
• Coldest month: January (average temperature: 5°C)
• Driest month: July (average rainfall: 15 mm)
• Wettest month: November (average rainfall: 100 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10-11 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4-5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 24-26°C

B. Cost of Living

I feel Molise has the least cost of living while remaining among the best places to retire in Italy.

• Weekly cost of groceries: €50-€70 for one person, €150-€200 for a family of four.
• Utilities (electricity and water): Approximately €100-€150 per month for a small apartment.
• Average rental prices: One-bedroom apartment: €300-€400/month. Three-bedroom apartment: €500-€700/month.
• Average prices for properties for sale: Apartment: €1000-€1500/square meter. House: €1200-€1800/square meter.

C. Population Dynamics

• Retirees are predominantly settled in coastal towns like Termoli and Vasto due to the mild climate, picturesque surroundings, and lower living costs. They mainly come from Northern Europe, seeking peaceful places to retire in Italy.
• Expats have formed small communities in urban areas like Campobasso and Isernia, attracted by the region’s tranquility and affordable lifestyle.
• Digital nomads have a limited presence and can be found mainly in larger cities.
• English use is limited outside tourist hubs and is more prevalent in cities such as Campobasso and Termoli due to larger tourism and expat communities. Language schools and translation services are available to aid in communication for those who look for places to retire in Italy.
• Support Communities: “Expats in Molise” and “Retire in Molise” and other similarly named groups offer online support and information for retirees, making the region adequate as one of several places to retire in Italy. Local community centers may provide offline assistance with communication and transport options.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Transport: Molise has limited public transport and mainly relies on buses connecting towns like Campobasso, Termoli, and Isernia. This reduces the appeal as one among my list of places to retire in Italy. Still, the tourist crowds are fewer, and other forms of transportation are available.
• Communication: Good internet and mobile coverage in urban areas like Campobasso and Termoli, making them draws for the younger nomad crowds.
• Hospitals: Modern medical facilities are available in major cities such as Campobasso (Ospedale Policlinico San Marco) and Termoli (Ospedale San Timoteo), both public and private options. Those looking for the best places to live in Italy for retirees will find these hospitals can provide special care for the elderly as well.
• Supermarkets: The major chains like Conad and Eurospin are mainly present in urban centers; local markets offer fresh produce to towns like Termoli and Campobasso.
• Golf Courses: Limited options are present for those seeking the more higher-end activities in their places to retire in Italy. The main golf course of note is Club Molise Golf in Campobasso.
• Dance Halls for the Old: There are few options available, though local community centers may organize events for seniors.
• Other Social Amenities: Cultural sites, parks, restaurants, and cafes provide recreational opportunities for retirees in Italy in towns like Termoli and Vasto.

E. Crime Rates

• Crime Rate in Molise, Italy, is generally low compared to other regions.
• Impact on Retirees in Italy is minimal, with occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft reported in tourist areas.

6. Tuscany – Among the Top places to retire in Italy

A. Climate &Weather

Simply the best among places to retire in Italy because of the general ambiance of the region.

• Hottest month: July (average temperature: 30°C)
• Coldest month: January (average temperature: 5°C)
• Driest month: July (average rainfall: 30 mm)
• Wettest month: November (average rainfall: 100 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10-11 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4-5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 22-24°C

B. Cost of Living

• Weekly cost of groceries: €50-€70 for one person, €150-€200 for a family of four.
• Utilities (electricity and water): Approximately €100-€150 per month for a small apartment.
• Average rental prices: One-bedroom apartment: €500-€700/month. Three-bedroom apartment: €1000-€1500/month.
• Average prices for properties for sale: Apartment: €3000-€4000/square meter. House: €3500-€5000/square meter. These rates may be off-putting when it comes to considerations over places to retire in Italy.

C. Population Dynamics

• Retirees are concentrated in picturesque towns like Florence, Siena, and Lucca due to the region’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and favorable climate. They are primarily from Northern Europe and North America. Such retirees that come here are looking for the best places in Italy with a slower pace of life but great cultural experiences.
• Retiree support communities usually go by some variation of “Expats in Tuscany” and “Retire in Tuscany”, offering online forums and local events for retirees.
• Expats on the other hand have diverse communities in the larger urban centers like Florence and Pisa. They are drawn here by job opportunities, educational institutions, and vibrant cultural scenes.
• Digital nomads have a limited presence in Tuscany and mainly congregate around cities with big coworking spaces and fast internet connections, such as Florence and Livorno. Most are attracted by the region’s creativity, history, and lifestyle.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Transport: Efficient train and bus services connect major cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena; local buses serve rural areas effectively, generally enhancing Tuscany’s place among the best places to retire in Italy.
• Communication: Strong internet and mobile coverage in urban centers and tourist spots; cafes and libraries offer free Wi-Fi access for residents and visitors.
• Hospitals: Modern medical facilities available in cities such as Florence (Careggi Hospital) and Pisa (Cisanello Hospital); both public and private options ensure quality healthcare for retirees.
• Supermarkets: Well-stocked chains like Coop, Esselunga, and Conad in urban areas and larger towns; smaller local markets offer fresh produce in rural communities.
• Golf Courses: Numerous options for golf enthusiasts that re-enforce Tuscany’s place among the best places to retire in Italy. Golf courses include Poggio dei Medici Golf Club near Florence and Toscana Golf Club in Grosseto; with beautiful landscapes and challenging courses.
• Dance Halls for Seniors: Limited but available in some community centers and social clubs in towns like Siena and Arezzo; occasional social events cater to the older population.
• Other Social Amenities: Abundant cultural attractions, parks, restaurants, and cafes provide ample leisure opportunities for retirees seeking places to retire in Italy, particularly in historic cities like Florence, Siena, and Lucca.

E. Crime Rates

• The crime rate in Tuscany is relatively low compared to other regions in Italy.
• Impact on retirees is rather minimal, with occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing reported in tourist areas.

7. Abruzzo

A. Climate and Weather

• Hottest month: July (average temperature: 28°C)
• Coldest month: January (average temperature: 5°C)
• Driest month: July (average rainfall: 30 mm)
• Wettest month: November (average rainfall: 100 mm)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 9-10 hours per day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4-5 hours per day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: Around 23-25°C

B. Cost of Living

Abruzzo is on this list of best places to retire in Italy because the rental and property prices are rather low compared to others on this list.

• Weekly cost of groceries: €40-€60 for one person, €120-€180 for a family of four.
• Utilities (electricity and water): Approximately €80-€120 per month for a small apartment.
• Average rental prices: One-bedroom apartment: €300-€500/month. Three-bedroom apartment: €600-€800/month.
• Average prices for properties for sale: Apartment: €1500-€2000/square meter. House: €1200-€1800/square meter.

C. Population Dynamics

• Retirees looking for the best places to retire in Italy in Abruzzo are drawn to picturesque towns like Pescara, Chieti, and L’Aquila because of the region’s affordability, stunning landscapes, and tranquil lifestyle. Most of such retirees in Italy mainly come from Northern Europe and North America, seeking a peaceful retirement amidst nature.
• There are various support networks like “Retirees in Abruzzo” and local community centers that offer assistance and social activities for retirees also seeking something similar to what they left behind at their old homes.
• Expats are fortunate in having varied expatriate communities in some urban centers such as Pescara and Teramo where such communities have grown networks. These groups are mostly attracted by job opportunities, educational institutions, and vibrant cultural scenes.
• Digital Nomads have a much rather limited presence. However, there are emerging groups in cities with good coworking spaces like Pescara and L’Aquila. Most are drawn by the region’s affordability, natural beauty, and growing digital infrastructure.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Transport: The region is well-connected by train and bus networks, with major stations in cities like Pescara, Chieti, and L’Aquila. The local buses serve rural areas well, but such roads can go neglected for long periods and are uncomfortable for old bones and reducing the region’s appeal as one of several places to retire in Italy.
• Communication: Good internet and mobile coverage, while most cafes and libraries offer Wi-Fi access for residents and tourists alike.
• Hospitals: Modern medical facilities available in cities such as Pescara (Pescara Hospital) and Chieti (Chieti Hospital); both public and private options ensure quality healthcare for retirees, enhancing the region’s appeal as one of the best places to retire in Italy.
• Supermarkets: Well-stocked chains like Coop, Europespin, and Conad in urban areas and larger towns like Teramo and Avezzano. The smaller local markets offer fresh produce in rural communities.
• Golf Courses: Options include the Miglianico Golf Club near Pescara and the L’Aquila Golf Club. Mostly, though, it is the scenic settings and reasonable rates that attract golf enthusiasts.
• Dance Halls for Seniors are limited yet available in some community centers and social clubs in towns like Teramo and Sulmona. Those looking towards Abruzzo for the best places to retire in Italy will be happy to know that there will be occasional social events that cater to the older population.
• Other Social Amenities: Cultural attractions, parks, restaurants, and cafes provide ample leisure opportunities for retirees, particularly in historic cities like Pescara, Chieti, and L’Aquila.

E. Crime Rates

• The crime rate in Abruzzo is relatively low compared to most other urban areas, with occasional petty crimes like pickpocketing reported in tourist spots.
• The impact on retirees is very minimal, with retirees generally feeling safe in their communities.
• Recent news indicates no significant increase in crime targeting retirees or tourists. In any case, most local authorities maintain vigilance to ensure safety.

8. Basilicata

A. Climate and Weather

• Hottest month: August (average 24°C)
• Coldest month: January (average 6°C)
• Driest month: July (average 22 mm of rainfall)
• Wettest month: November (average 102 mm of rainfall)
• Summer Sunshine hours: 10 hours/day
• Winter Sunshine hours: 4 hours/day
• Sea Water temperatures in Summer: 24°C

B. Cost of Living

Basilicata is also on this list of best places to retire in Italy because I felt the lower property prices, combined with other factors like not being tourist prone, make her pretty good as a place to spend your golden years.

• Weekly cost of groceries: €50-€80
• Utilities (electricity and water): €100-€150/month
• Transport fares: €1.50 per local bus ticket
• Average prices of rental houses and apartments: €300-€500/month
• Average prices of houses for sale: €1,000-€1,500/m²
• Average prices of villas for sale: €1,200-€2,000/m²
• Average prices of apartments for sale: €1,000-€1,500/m²

C. Population Dynamics

• In Basilicata, Italy, expats, digital nomads, and retirees are primarily from the UK, Germany, and the US.
• Towns like Matera, Potenza, and Maratea see a higher number of retirees. Retirees seeking new homes in places to retire in Italy like Basilicata are attracted to Basilicata for its low cost of living, historic charm, and tranquil environment.
• Online groups such as Expats in Basilicata and other local meetups offer good social support for those seeking to integrate into the new communities. Retiree networks like Internations and local expat clubs provide help with communication and transport.
• English is not widely spoken, except in tourist hotspots like Matera. Language schools, private tutors, and community language programs help with communication.
• Some local government offices offer translation services and bilingual staff.

D. Amenities and Lifestyle

• Basilicata has robust transport networks with regional trains and buses in towns like Potenza and Matera, providing efficient travel options.
• Communication capabilities are strong, with companies like TIM and Vodafone ensuring good mobile and internet coverage, particularly in urban areas.
• Modern and affordable hospitals include San Carlo Hospital in Potenza and Madonna delle Grazie Hospital in Matera, catering to retirees’ healthcare needs.
• Supermarkets such as Carrefour and Lidl are prevalent in cities like Matera and Potenza, offering a variety of affordable groceries.
• For golf enthusiasts, there is Riva dei Tessali Golf Club near Metaponto, though golf courses are generally limited.
• Dance halls and social clubs for the elderly can be found in larger towns, with community centers in Potenza and Matera offering regular events.
• Other social amenities include libraries, parks, and cultural centers, especially in Matera, known for its historic significance and vibrant expat community.
• Retirees benefit from a low cost of living, a peaceful environment, and supportive social networks, making Basilicata an appealing inclusion into this list of best places to retire in Italy.

E. Crime Rates

• Basilicata has a relatively low crime rate compared to other Italian regions.
• Crime impacts retirees minimally. Small gangs and street thugs are not a major issue for the elderly, expats, or tourists.
• Recent news suggests occasional petty theft and burglaries but no significant threat from organized crime.
• Retirees generally feel safe, with local police maintaining order effectively.

Tips (Tax Policies):

1. Average prices differ greatly. A 4-bedroom apartment in Venafro can go for as low as 500 €/month (80 m2) and as high as 600 €/month (130 m2). In Isernia, that is 380 €/month for a house with 80 m2, and 550 €/month for a 62 m2 apartment in Termoli.
2. Root around online to find what groups and demographics are available in a particular region as they can help with integration and settling in.
3. You DO NOT have to be an Italian citizen to purchase property in Italy.
4. If you are not physically in the country, a legal representative is enough to buy property in Italy.
5. Become familiar with the Italian Tax Code and you must own an Italian bank account to buy property in Italy.
6. Wills allowed in Italy are 3 types: Formal, Secret, and Hand-written. In all three, it is best to use a lawyer and witnesses present.
7. Tax-free inheritance goes up to 1, 000, 000 € before you get into that 4 – 8% bracket. Declarations must be submitted within 6 months.
8. Get an Italian Social Security Administration document first if you want to transfer your international pension to Italy.
9. Purchase documents are written in Italian.
10. You can only remain within the country for up to 3 months if you are not an Italian citizen or do not have a visa.
11. Public healthcare for residents in Italy is free/almost free. Covers from primary care to preventative to testing, screenings, prescriptions, and specialists for the more common ailments. In my opinion, it’s the best as compared to Private.
12. Both citizens and residents qualify for Italy’s national health service. You do need your Italian tax number just to begin the application though.
13. Private health care is available, with Allianz Care, Cigna Global, and April International as the major players.
14. Foreign retirees get a 7% flat tax if they get foreign pensions coming in. Ask your lawyer for more details as I failed at business studies – okay I’m kidding, I aced it-just do your own due diligence.
15. The Retirement Visa, aka Elective Resident Visa, does not allow you to apply for work somewhere. It is intended for those with some kind of income coming in (approx. €31,000 per year) and already have some kind of property in Italy. Apply for one BEFORE you arrive in Italy. Check Consulate websites for more on this.
16. The Investor Visa allows you to stay in Italy for up to 2 years – and 3 additional ones after renewal – so long as you put in a minimum of 250, 000 €.
17. Apply for a residency permit within 8 days of arriving in your area of choice. Go to the local police headquarters for this. Do this every year for 5 years then you can apply for permanent residency.
18. Italian blood in your family tree qualifies you for residency & citizenship. Marriage to an Italian as well.
19. EU and EFTA (European Free Trade Association) citizens have it easier.
20. EU and EFTA (European Free Trade Association) citizens can also access Italy’s healthcare system via the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) card after local registration.
21. Most areas in Italy are pretty good when it comes to looking for the best places to retire in Italy. I have made a quick list of just 8 that I felt were the best, but there are others like Lombardia, Liguria, Le Marche, Piedmont, and Veneto that I do not include here because I felt they were a bit more expensive. Some of these are regarded as classic locations, but in my ears that simply screams expensive!
22. Lombardia ranks highest in real estate prices…. well Milan is in Lombardia
23. Sicily’s weather and climate are changing due to climate change, with Summers getting longer and warmer.
24. Piedmont has about 400, 000 foreign-born residents. This represents 8-10% of foreign-born residents in the country.
25. The Senior International Health Association is a good place to connect with retirees and other groups in the country.
26. Seniors qualify for up to 15% discounts on buses and trains. Europe Rail gives up to 25% discounts. Frecce, Intercity, and Intercity Night give discounts of up to 50%.
27. Hotels sometimes offer seniors discounts of up to 10%.
28. Museums and sites sometimes offer discounts to seniors. Ask first.

🚫Please do your own due diligence before making any decision based on the information provided. Read my Disclaimer Policy.