Many homes in Italy can be bought for $50,000 or less. Italy’s famous one-euro homes are great for those willing to pull up their sleeves, but they can also require substantial work. But small village homes or one bedroom apartments can be easily found at great prices practically unheard of in the US. Coastal villas with stunning seaside views at higher budgets still offer considerable value compared to the US and other developed countries.
It is typically much cheaper to live in Italy than in the US. In financial analysis, Italy came out as cheaper to live in than its European neighbors, France, Portugal or Greece. It’s particularly budget-friendly for home maintenance, leisure and travel, and cups of coffee that are known for their superior quality. Public transportation supported with a large network of reliable train and bus services keep your cost of transportation very low.
Italy receives more than 2500 hours of sunshine per year. Warm weather helps arthritis and respiratory conditions, improves our mood, and increases our vitamin D levels. It also helps to ripen the copious amounts of fresh produce grown in Italy that are part of the healthy Mediterranean diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are available nearly year-round. Italy grows most of Europe’s tomatoes, especially the succulent cherry tomatoes.
Italy is rightfully known for its outstanding and delicious cuisine, and luckily it is also very affordable. From the classics like risotto, pizza, and gelato to all the regional specialties, Italy represents a smorgasbord of gastronomical delights. The Mediterranean diet with its heavy emphasis on whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables helps promote longevity. Many places in Italy called Blue Zones have residents routinely living past 100 years old!
Lack of stress, sunshine, clean air, Mediterranean diets, and plenty of exercise are all parts of the lifestyle enjoyed by many Italians. The Mediterranean diet reduces heart disease and cancer and a strong commitment to family ties and community keeps Alzheimer levels low. The lack of political division is often mentioned as a favorite aspect of Italian life by American expats living in Italy.