The Most Affordable Regions in Italy for those who move here

Introduction

Moving to Italy means embracing a slower lifestyle, cultural richness, and the beauty of everyday life under the Italian sun. ☀️
But where can you live comfortably without overspending? Regions like Abruzzo, Marche, Sicily, and Puglia offer exactly what most retirees and remote earners seek — high quality of life at a low cost. 💰

In this article, we’ll explore these four regions, focusing on small towns and rural areas that combine authentic charm with affordable living.

Abruzzo

Abruzzo is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains, it offers breathtaking views and remarkably low living costs.

• In smaller villages, it’s possible to rent a modest home for €200–300 per month.
• In medium towns like Sulmona, Penne, or Chieti, apartments average €320–350 per month.
• Property prices are also low, around €1,190/m² on average (Idealista, May 2025).

🛒 Average monthly expenses:

• Groceries: €150–300 per person.
• Utilities: €80–150 depending on season and location.
• Transport: minimal, as most daily needs are within reach.

🏡 Recommended towns:
Città Sant’Angelo, Scanno, and Penne — all offering peace, authenticity, and friendly local communities. 🤝

✅ Pros: pristine nature, mountains and sea close by.
⚠️ Cons: some remote villages have limited medical and public services.

Marche

Marche is perfect for those who seek balance — between coast and countryside, modern services and authentic rural charm.

• The average rent is around €9.6/m², but many villages offer prices below €8/m².
• In towns like Offida, Recanati, or Cingoli, you can live comfortably on €700–1,000 per month per person.

🍅 Average expenses:

• Groceries: €150–250 per month.
• Utilities: €90–130.
• Transport: limited but inexpensive.

🏡 Recommended towns:
Urbino, Offida, Corinaldo, Camerino — historical, artistic, and surrounded by peaceful hills. 🌄

✅ Pros: well-balanced landscapes, mild climate, high livability.
⚠️ Cons: some internal areas lack good public transport connections.

Sicily

Sicily is more than an island — it’s a lifestyle. Its sunshine, slow pace, and deep traditions make it one of the most affordable and fulfilling places to live in Italy. ☀️

• Average rent: €8.4/m², among the lowest in the country.
• In villages like Noto, Modica, or Enna, entire homes rent for €250–400 per month.
• Property purchase price: around €900–1,200/m².

🍋 Monthly expenses:

• Groceries: €150–250.
• Utilities: €100–160 (higher in summer for air conditioning).
• Local transport: limited but cheap.

🏡 Recommended towns:
Noto, Scicli, Cefalù, and Gangi — postcard-perfect places rich in culture and history. 📸

✅ Pros: warm weather, delicious food, low costs.
⚠️ Cons: infrastructure in rural areas can be weak, and some towns are far from airports.

Puglia

Puglia is one of the top choices for foreigners and retirees seeking sea views, affordable prices, and authentic Italian life. 🌊

• Average rent: €9.7/m².
• For a couple, total monthly costs range from €1,400 to €1,900, according to Forbes.
• In rural inland areas, living well on €1,200 per month is realistic.

🍞 Average monthly costs:

• Groceries: €400 for two.
• Utilities: €150.
• Local taxes and transport: around €200.

🏡 Recommended towns:
Cisternino, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Alberobello — whitewashed gems with exceptional quality of life. 🌸

✅ Pros: stunning coastline, great food, strong community life.
⚠️ Cons: some areas are quieter or less serviced in winter months.

Comparison and key insights

In simple terms:

• Abruzzo is the best mix of affordability and nature — perfect for mountain and sea lovers.
• Marche offers balance and comfort, ideal for those who value culture and peace.
• Sicily wins for low cost and cultural depth, but services vary.
• Puglia combines charm, warmth, and Mediterranean lifestyle at a still-reasonable price.

Practical advice

1. Visit in person: data helps, but every village feels different.
2. Check essential services: hospitals, pharmacies, and transport options. 🚑
3. Consider climate: heating or cooling costs vary widely by area.
4. Stay connected: towns near train lines or airports make life easier. ✈️
5. Look for local incentives: some towns offer houses for €1 or bonuses for new residents. 🏠

In short, moving to Italy with the Elective Residency Visa opens a world of opportunities.
🌻 Central and Southern Italy — especially Abruzzo, Marche, Sicily, and Puglia — deliver the perfect balance between cost, comfort, and authentic Italian life.