Retiring in Italy offers more than just stunning landscapes and world-famous history—it’s a chance to embrace a lifestyle rich in culture, community, and everyday pleasures. From coastal escapes to charming countryside villages, Italy provides the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and opportunity for those looking to retire in Europe.
To make your planning easier, we’ve outlined key information about retiring in Italy. Explore the table below for an overview of essential topics. For more detailed information, check out our article Step By Step Guide to Retiring in Italy.
While Italy may be small, its regions are incredibly diverse, and the information provided reflects only general averages. We recommend seeking expert advice to find the perfect location that aligns with your lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Unless you’re an EU citizen, retiring in Italy requires a visa. The most common route is the Elective Residency Visa, designed for retirees with sufficient passive income or savings to support themselves without working. Property ownership is not required, but stable financial means are essential: while there is a documented minimum of €31,000 per year for an individual, authorities may ask for higher amounts depending on your chosen location or lifestyle.
🔗 Explore your options in our guide to Italy’s retirement visas.
Italy offers an attractive 7% flat tax scheme for retirees who move to certain southern regions, valid for up to 10 years. This can make a significant difference for those with pensions or foreign income. For others, standard Italian tax rates apply, which are progressive and can be higher than in some countries.
🔗 Learn more in our guide to how to manage your taxes when retiring in Italy.
Italy offers high-quality public healthcare, which foreigners can usually access by paying an annual fee of around €2,000, with no age restrictions. Services and waiting times vary across regions, so it’s worth considering local differences. Many expats also choose private coverage, which is widely available and ensures faster access to specialists.
🔗 Discover more in our guide to healthcare in Italy for expats.
Italy offers a wide range of living costs depending on location. Southern towns and smaller cities remain very affordable, while Milan, Rome, and Florence are significantly higher. On average, many retirees live comfortably on around €1,500–€2,000 per month, though lifestyle choices make a big difference. Property prices also vary widely, from bargain rural homes to prime city apartments.
🔗 Compare real figures in our guide to cost of living for retirees in Italy.
Italy offers a way of life that goes far beyond the practical advantages. Retirees enjoy a balanced pace of life, strong sense of community, and a rich cultural heritage stretching from historic cities to charming villages. The country’s stunning diversity — from Alpine peaks to Mediterranean coastlines — combines with world-class cuisine and wine to create one of the most rewarding retirement destinations in Europe.
🔗 Read more about what day-to-day life in Italy really looks like — and how to integrate like a local.
Explore our services to help you confirm Italy is the right fit, plan your move with clarity, and settle in smoothly — with expert guidance every step of the way.
Clarify the practical and emotional realities of life in Italy with expert guidance, tailored briefings, and hands-on support.
Fit Check Package
Structured country briefings plus 1:1 coaching to cover visas, taxes, healthcare, housing, and lifestyle fit. We’ll test your readiness — practical and emotional — so you can move forward without surprises.
Scouting Trip Planning
A purposeful visit designed to simulate real life abroad. From practical errands to meeting local contacts, you’ll see how your new life could look — before making the move.
Explore our pre-move services
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We take care of the logistics — from visas to utilities — so you can focus on starting your new life without stress.
Relocation Management
Your single point of coordination for the entire process, covering immigration, tax, healthcare, housing, and more. We connect the dots, anticipate what’s next, and work with trusted local partners to keep your move on track.
Post-Move Support
Settle in smoothly with help on everything from healthcare and utilities to banking and local registrations. We’re there to answer questions and guide you through the details most people only discover too late.
Explore our relocation support
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