Top 5 Best Regions in Italy for Expats

May 13, 2025 by Anne Baker

Top 5 Best Regions in Italy for Expats

Italy is one of the most sought-after destinations for expats looking for a lifestyle change. Whether you're planning to retire, work remotely, or simply embrace a slower pace of life, Italy offers rich culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities.In this guide, we highlight the top 5 best regions in Italy for expats, based on affordability, healthcare, quality of life, climate, and ease of integration.

1. Tuscany – The Ideal Blend of Culture and Comfort

Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and Renaissance towns, Tuscany offers expats a balanced mix of Italian charm and practical living.

Main cities: Florence, Lucca, Siena
Why expats love it:
- Rich art and culture
- Excellent healthcare
- Well-established expat communities
Considerations: Property prices can be higher near Florence or Chianti.

Language tip: Many locals speak some English, but learning Italian will greatly improve your experience.

2. Puglia – Affordable Living in Southern Italy

Puglia is becoming increasingly popular among expats seeking a more authentic, less tourist-heavy Italian lifestyle.

Main cities: Lecce, Ostuni, Bari
Why expats love it:
- Low cost of living
- Warm climate and beautiful coastlines
- Slower pace of life
Considerations: English is less widely spoken; Italian fluency helps significantly.

Start learning essential Italian phrases for daily life in Puglia with our online course.

3. Umbria – Tuscany's Peaceful Neighbor

Often referred to as “the green heart of Italy,” Umbria provides all the natural beauty of Tuscany, but with fewer tourists and more affordable prices.

Main towns: Perugia, Spoleto, Assisi
Why expats love it:
- Tranquil countryside living
- Vibrant local traditions
- Great access to central Italy
Considerations: Fewer large hospitals and urban amenities

4. Emilia-Romagna – Food, Healthcare, and Accessibility

Home to some of Italy’s best cuisine and public infrastructure, Emilia-Romagna is a top pick for expats who value convenience and quality services.

Main cities: Bologna, Parma, Modena
Why expats love it:
- Excellent public healthcare
- High standard of living
- Efficient public transport and roads
Considerations: Colder winters compared to southern regions

5. Sicily – Island Life on a Budget

If you dream of island living with rich culture, delicious food, and low costs, Sicily is worth serious consideration.

Main cities: Palermo, Catania, Siracusa
Why expats love it:
- Affordable housing
- Mediterranean climate
- Deep historical roots
Considerations: Bureaucracy and slower pace can be challenging at first

Pro tip: Knowing Italian makes daily life here much easier. Our course includes lessons specifically tailored to expat life in southern Italy.

Bonus: How to Choose the Right Region for You

When choosing a region in Italy as an expat, consider:

Climate – North is cooler, south is sunnier
Healthcare access – Urban areas often offer better services
Language skills – English is more common in tourist zones
Community – Some towns have well-established expat groups

Ready to Start Your New Life in Italy?

Moving to Italy is a dream for many—but it’s even better when you can communicate confidently. Our online Italian course helps future expats learn practical language skills for everyday life, from renting a home to visiting the doctor.Join thousands of learners preparing for their Italian adventure.
Start learning Italian today and turn your move into a success story.