Dreaming of a life full of Italian espresso, fresh pasta, and Mediterranean sun? We’ve crunched the numbers for you.

Comparing life in Italy to life in the US, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

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Table of Contents

• Cost of Living
• Crime Rates
• Travel and Visa Requirements
• Housing Options
• Taxes
• Conclusion
• References

Cost of Living

Italy offers a more affordable lifestyle, with an average cost of living that’s 39% lower than in the US.

Rent

Rent is approximately 59% cheaper than what you’d find in the US.

Crime Rates

Overall Crime

The overall crime rate is about 6% higher than in the US.

Violent Crime

Violent crimes are 88% lower than in the US.

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Travel and Visa Requirements

Flight Information

Expect to pay around $800 for a flight from the US to Italy that lasts approximately 8 hours.

Popular Tourist Destinations:

Cities:

1. Rome – Known for the Colosseum, Vatican City, and its rich history.
2. Florence – Renowned for its art, museums, and architecture.
3. Venice – Famous for its canals and the Piazza San Marco.
4. Milan – Known as a fashion capital and for its vibrant cultural scene.
5. Naples – Famous for its rich history and proximity to the Amalfi Coast.

Coastal Areas:

1. Amalfi Coast – Known for its stunning cliffside villages.
2. Cinque Terre – A string of centuries-old seaside villages on the Italian Riviera coastline.
3. Sardinia – Famous for its beaches, mountains, and historical sites.
4. Sicily – Known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Historical Sites:

1. Pompeii – An ancient Roman city preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
2. Herculaneum – Similar to Pompeii but smaller and better preserved.
3. Paestum – Known for its well-preserved Greek temples.

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Visa Requirements

The first 90 days are visa-free, but for longer stays, you’ll need an Italian D Visa or a long-term visa.

Housing Market

Renting

Rent ranges between $719 and $1,318 per month.

Buying

Housing costs average around $380,000, with regional variations.

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Tax Rates

Personal Tax Rates

Tax rates range from 23% to 43%, with additional regional and municipal taxes.

Tax Comparison

If you earn $100,000, expect to pay roughly 19% more in taxes in Italy compared to the US.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn by Italy’s lower cost of living or deterred by its higher tax rates, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make an informed choice.

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References

• “Crime Rate by Country,” WiseVoter.
• “Murder Rate by Country,” World Population Review.
• “Taxes on Personal Income,” PwC.