Italy is a dream destination for many Americans who are looking to move abroad. Whether it's the rich history, stunning architecture, or delicious cuisine, Italy has so much to offer. But is it possible to move to Italy without spending a fortune? Absolutely! With the right strategies, you can move to Italy on a budget and still enjoy everything the country has to offer.

In this guide, we'll show you how to move to Italy without breaking the bank, from choosing the right visa to finding affordable housing and saving on daily expenses. Ready to start your Italian adventure? Let's go!

Why Italy Is a Great Choice for Americans

Italy offers a rich cultural experience and a high quality of life, all while being affordable compared to many U.S. cities. Whether you want to live in the bustling cities like Rome or Florence or prefer the peaceful countryside of Tuscany or Sicily, there’s an option for every lifestyle. Plus, Italy's lower cost of living can make your dream of living abroad a reality without financial stress.

Step 1: Choose the Right Visa

Before you pack your bags, you'll need to apply for the correct visa. Italy offers several visa options for Americans, depending on your plans.

Elective Residency Visa

The Elective Residency Visa is a popular option for retirees or those who wish to live in Italy without working. This visa requires proof of sufficient income or savings to support yourself while living in Italy. It’s an excellent option if you’re financially independent and plan to enjoy a relaxed life in Italy.

Work Visa

If you’ve secured a job offer in Italy, the Work Visa is the way to go. Your employer will typically assist with the application process, and this visa allows you to live and work in Italy long-term.

Student Visa

For students, the Student Visa allows you to study in Italy and even work part-time. It’s an affordable option if you plan to take courses or pursue a degree in one of Italy’s many universities.

Pro Tip: Start your visa application early, as the process can take time. Be sure to check the financial requirements for each visa, as you'll need to show proof of income or savings.

Step 2: Create a Budget for Your Move

Before moving to Italy, it's important to create a detailed budget. Here’s what you’ll need to consider:

Visa Fees: Visa fees vary depending on the type, but generally range from $100 to $150. Be sure to check the latest fees on the Italian consulate’s website.

Flights: Airfare to Italy can fluctuate, but you can save by booking early and flying during off-peak seasons.

Moving Costs: Shipping your belongings to Italy can be expensive. We'll explore more affordable alternatives below.

Common Mistake: Don’t forget to include health insurance in your budget. Italy requires health insurance coverage for long-term visas, and this cost can add up if not planned for.

Step 3: Save on Flights

Flying to Italy is a big part of your budget, but there are several ways to find affordable flights:

Book Early: The earlier you book, the better. Use flight comparison websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights to track prices and set alerts for deals.

Fly During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoid flying during peak summer months (June-August) or holiday seasons. Instead, look for flights in the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for lower prices.

Consider Budget Airlines: Airlines like Norwegian Air and TAP Air Portugal often offer affordable one-way flights to Italy. While you may sacrifice some comfort, the savings are worth it.

Pro Tip: Consider flying into smaller airports like Bologna or Pisa instead of major hubs like Rome or Milan. Flights into smaller cities are often cheaper.

Step 4: Find Affordable Housing

Housing is one of the biggest expenses when moving abroad, but there are plenty of affordable options in Italy.

Rent First, Buy Later

If you’re planning to stay in Italy long-term, it's wise to rent first. This allows you to explore different areas and get a feel for the local market before making a major financial commitment.

Pro Tip: Websites like Idealista and Immobiliare are great resources for finding rental properties across Italy. Be sure to explore different regions for better deals.

Affordable Cities and Regions

While cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan are popular, they are also some of the most expensive areas to live in. Consider living in smaller cities or towns for a lower cost of living. Cities like Bologna, Turin, and Naples offer lower rent and a more affordable lifestyle compared to the major tourist hubs.

For a quieter life, rural regions like Umbria or Abruzzo are beautiful and budget-friendly.

Shared Housing

If you’re on a tight budget, shared housing (affitto condiviso) is an excellent option. Renting a room in a shared apartment is a great way to save money and meet locals or other expats.

Common Mistake: Make sure to ask if utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet) are included in the rent. In some cases, utilities are billed separately and can add to your monthly costs.

Step 5: Save on Daily Living Expenses

Once you’ve settled in Italy, it’s important to manage your daily expenses wisely.

Cook at Home

While Italy is known for its fantastic food, eating out regularly can add up quickly. Cooking at home is an easy way to save money, and Italy’s fresh markets offer affordable produce, meats, and cheeses.

Pro Tip: Shop at local markets and smaller grocery stores to get the best deals. Italian markets often sell fresh, seasonal produce at a fraction of the cost of supermarkets.

Use Public Transportation

Italy has an excellent public transportation system, especially in cities. You can save a lot by using buses, trains, and metros instead of buying a car. Many cities offer discounted monthly or yearly passes that will save you even more if you use public transportation regularly.

Common Mistake: Avoid using taxis unless necessary, as they can be quite expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Free or Low-Cost Activities

Italy is full of free or low-cost activities. From visiting historic churches to exploring beautiful public parks and attending local festivals, you can enjoy much of what Italy has to offer without spending a lot of money.

Pro Tip: Many museums in Italy offer free entry on the first Sunday of every month, and many outdoor events and festivals are free to attend.

Step 6: Healthcare in Italy

One of the biggest perks of living in Italy is the excellent healthcare system. The good news is that it’s also affordable.

Public Healthcare (SSN): If you’re a resident of Italy, you’ll likely qualify for Italy’s public healthcare system, known as the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN). This provides free or low-cost medical services.

Private Health Insurance: If you’re applying for a long-term visa, you may need private health insurance. Many expats combine public healthcare with private insurance for faster access to specialists and more comprehensive care.

Pro Tip: Look for expat health insurance plans that meet the visa requirements while offering affordable coverage.

Step 7: Find Work or Income in Italy

Having a steady income will help you maintain your budget while living in Italy. Here are a few ways to earn money:

Teach English

Teaching English is one of the most popular ways for Americans to earn money in Italy. You can find teaching jobs through language schools or by offering private lessons. Websites like Teach Away and Go Overseas are great places to start your job search.

Work Remotely

If you already have a job that allows remote work, consider continuing to work for your U.S.-based employer while living in Italy. This way, you can maintain your U.S. income while enjoying a lower cost of living in Italy.

Common Mistake: Be sure to check the tax implications of working remotely in Italy, as you may need to file taxes both in the U.S. and Italy.

Step 8: Stay Connected with Family and Friends

Staying connected with loved ones in the U.S. is important, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

Use Free Communication Apps: WhatsApp, Zoom, and Skype allow you to call, video chat, and message family and friends for free. These apps are widely used in Italy and offer an easy way to stay in touch without racking up international phone charges.

Budget Airlines: If you plan to visit the U.S. or travel within Europe, look for flight deals on budget airlines like Ryanair or EasyJet. Booking during off-peak seasons can save you money on airfare.

Pro Tip: Sign up for frequent flyer programs to earn points and get discounts on future flights.

How to Move to Italy on a Budget

Moving to Italy is an exciting adventure, and with the right planning, it can be affordable too. Here’s a quick recap of the key steps:

Choose the right visa for your situation and budget.
Create a budget that includes flights, visa fees, and housing costs.
Find affordable housing by renting and exploring less expensive cities.
Save on daily expenses by cooking at home, using public transportation, and enjoying free activities.
Get healthcare coverage through Italy’s public system or private insurance.
Find work or income by teaching English or working remotely.
Stay connected with loved ones using free communication apps and budget airlines.

Ready to Move to Italy?

Italy offers an incredible lifestyle, and with a bit of planning, it’s possible to move there without breaking the bank. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the food , or the laid-back lifestyle, Italy has something for everyone. By following these budget-friendly steps, you can start your new life in Italy while keeping your finances in check.

Ready to begin your Italian adventure? Start planning today! Subscribe to our newsletter for more insider tips.

Buona fortuna (good luck), and welcome to Italy!

How to Move Abroad Without Breaking the Bank: Insider Tips for Americans to Italy