Best Places to Retire in Italy According to Experts
Many Americans are choosing Italy as their retirement destination for a mix of practical and personal reasons. The country offers dependable healthcare, a slower pace of daily life, and clear visa pathways that make long stays possible. Experts also point to the steady cost of living, supportive local communities, and the sense of ease people find once they settle in. Below are 15 places specialists often recommend for retirees who want comfort, culture, and a balanced quality of life.
Gaeta, Lazio
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Conversations with relocation advisors often bring up Gaeta for people who want a quieter home base without losing access to essentials. The hospital sits close to residential areas, local buses make errands easy, and the regional train turns visits to Rome into a simple ride. Daily life feels organized without becoming demanding.
Lucca, Tuscany
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What stands out in Lucca is how simple it is to get around. The historic center is famously flat, so walking or biking doesn’t feel like a workout. Analysts mention that home prices sit well below Florence, and the steady flow of concerts and food events gives residents low-effort ways to stay social.
Orvieto, Umbria
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People who prefer compact living often end up eyeing Orvieto. Grocers, cafés, and pharmacies cluster in the upper town, while a quick funicular ride brings you to the rail line connecting to Rome and Florence. Medical services nearby offer reassurance, especially for older individuals adjusting to life abroad.
Ascoli Piceno, Marche
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People looking to keep expenses manageable often hear Ascoli Piceno recommended. Daily costs stay reasonable, and the town still offers good food, accessible healthcare, and active public spaces. Its position near the Adriatic makes day trips simple, and many residents say the community is welcoming while still giving people their space.
Bologna, Emilia Romagna
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Bologna often suits retirees who want the familiarity of a city without feeling overwhelmed. The porticos make it easy to get around in different weather, and buses connect most neighborhoods without much fuss. Healthcare services are well-regarded in national assessments, and the rail network offers a practical way to reach other parts of Italy for family visits or short trips.
Lecce, Puglia
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Lecce offers a warm climate, straightforward access to medical services, and routine costs that stay fairly stable. The compact center makes daily errands easier for people who prefer shorter walks, and both coastlines sit within practical reach for low-pressure day trips. The city’s Baroque architecture also comes with a practical benefit for retirees: many of the historic streets and central areas are closed to heavy traffic, which keeps the core quieter and easier to navigate.
Torino, Piemonte
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Older arrivals who prefer a well-organized city often gravitate toward Torino. Its tram system is straightforward, cultural venues stay active throughout the year, and hospitals maintain strong reputations. Access to the Alps gives residents simple weekend escapes, even for those who prefer scenic walks over winter sports.
Trento, Trentino Alto Adige
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People who value efficiency tend to praise Trento. Local services run smoothly, winter maintenance is excellent, and the community consistently scores high in national quality-of-life surveys. Housing options remain more affordable than many expect, and medical care across the province is considered among Italy’s most dependable.
Abruzzo Region
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Abruzzo is often mentioned for retirees watching their budget, since housing and day-to-day costs tend to sit below national levels. Utilities stay fairly steady, and local markets supply fresh food without much price fluctuation. The region has access to smaller airports for straightforward travel within Europe, and many towns operate on a scale that makes daily interaction simple without the pressure of larger urban centers.
Sicily
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Island living in Sicily works well for people who want mild winters and predictable expenses. Seafood and produce markets help keep grocery spending steady, rentals stay accessible, and the larger cities offer solid medical centers. The mix of seaside walks and historic neighborhoods adds easy variety to everyday routines.
Puglia Region
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Practicality is what usually wins people over in Puglia. Flat landscapes help older adults handle errands on foot, and frequent rail links simplify travel between major hubs. Costs stay reasonable across most towns. Analysts also note that local cuisine leans on fresh vegetables and grains, which keeps food spending modest.
Le Marche Region
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Many older newcomers appreciate how Le Marche balances scenic surroundings with dependable public services. Communities like Urbino and Senigallia offer reliable clinics, manageable living expenses, and calendars full of cultural events. Local bus systems make it simple to explore without needing a car, something retirees repeatedly praise.
Umbria Region
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Umbria offers a quieter rural setting and generally lower housing costs than nearby Tuscany. Rail links connect the region to Rome and Florence without much complication, which keeps longer trips practical. Weekly markets remain a part of local life, making it easier for residents to keep routines simple and rely on fresh, affordable produce.
Cagliari, Sardinia
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Cagliari tends to win over newcomers who want both seaside scenery and city structure. Medical specialists operate near the center, buses keep the area connected, and winters stay mild. Most people find a routine built around cafés, short walks, and coastal views that are easy to enjoy without planning.
Genoa, Liguria
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Genoa’s layout can look challenging at first glance, but the network of public elevators and funiculars makes getting around more manageable. Healthcare options are easy to reach, and day-to-day expenses stay relatively consistent. The waterfront and older districts offer plenty to explore at a relaxed pace, with markets, small museums, and local food traditions that give the city a lived-in rhythm rather than a tourist-driven feel.