The Best Places to Live Cheaply in Italy
Italy has become a dream destination for many Americans looking to retire, study, or make a lifestyle change. And it’s not hard to see why. The country is not only beautiful, with its incredible food, captivating history, and UNESCO-protected sites, but it is also one of the most affordable places to live in Mediterranean Europe. So, if you’re considering a move to Italy on a budget, we’ve got you covered. We’ve crunched the numbers and found the best places to live in Italy for just $2,500 a month.
Cesena, Emilia-Romagna
Population: 97,000
Average two-bedroom apartment: $800
Estimated monthly cost of living: $2,400
Located in the heart of the Alps mountain range, Cesena is a hidden gem in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. The city offers impressive views of the surrounding mountains and boasts incredible sites within its city walls. Imagine sipping on an apertivo or cappuccino at one of the bars in Piazza del Popolo, with the stunning Rocca Malatestiana, a castellated fortress, as your backdrop. Cesena is the perfect place for outdoor adventurers. The clean air and stunning scenery make it ideal for hiking, rock climbing, and biking in the warmer months. Despite being a smaller town, Cesena has a ton of cultural attractions. The Church of San Giovanni Battista, built in the 12th century, is a must-visit, as is the UNESCO heritage site, the Biblioteca Malatestiana, one of the best-preserved libraries in Italy. Don’t be fooled by its seemingly remote location. Cesena is only a 40-minute train ride from the superb city of Bologna. And if you’re in the mood for a beach day, Lido di Savio, a seaside resort town, is just 30 minutes away. Plus, being so close to Bologna means you’ll have access to the incredible food the region produces. Think rich Parmesan cheese, meat-stuffed pasta dishes, and cured meats. Pair it all with a glass of Sangiovese wine for the quintessential Emilia-Romagna meal.
Pavia, Lombardy
Population: 73,800
Average two-bedroom apartment: $820
Estimated monthly cost of living: $2,460
Situated just south of Milan, Pavia offers a small-town vibe that is much more representative of the Italian way of life. Despite its proximity to the cosmopolitan hub, Pavia remains accessible and walkable, with a solid public transportation system that makes owning a car unnecessary. And if you’re craving the excitement of the big city, the rest of Italy and Europe are just a quick train ride away. Pavia is also a university town, which gives it a youthful energy. The campus is a maze of courtyards, each with its own unique architectural style. Monuments, distinct lecture halls, and a collection of museums add to the charm. Living in Pavia provides the best of both worlds – a town outside the hustle and bustle of Milan, but not too far away. And with an estimated monthly cost of $2,460, living in Pavia will cost you less than half compared to Milan’s average of $5,790.
Livorno, Tuscany
Population: 157,000
Average two-bedroom apartment: $820
Estimated monthly cost of living: $2,460
Located along the western coast of Tuscany, Livorno is a hidden gem just twenty kilometers south of Pisa. While Florence and Pisa often steal the spotlight, Livorno offers a more authentic atmosphere with fewer foreign tourists. If you’re determined to live in the famous region of Tuscany, which tends to be more expensive than other parts of Italy, Livorno is a smart choice for a $2,500 budget. Livorno is a melting pot of cultural influences. Established in the 1500s by Florence as a sanctuary for exiles, traders, and other “unfavorable” people at the time, the city has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a great place to settle for people of all religions and cultures. The multicultural history of Livorno also translates to an amazing culinary scene. The town’s central market, Mercato delle Vettovaglie, features over 200 stalls where you can find everything from fresh seafood and locally grown produce to local dishes like Cinque e Cinque, a chickpea flatbread, and Couscous alla Livournese, a Spanish and North African-inspired dish.
Living in Italy on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of life. Cesena, Pavia, and Livorno offer affordable living, incredible cultural attractions, and access to the stunning landscapes and delicious food that Italy is known for. So, pack your bags and get ready to start your Italian adventure without breaking the bank.
