Italy – Where to Retire in Europe

The US Social Security office claims they send “at least” a million social security checks to foreign countries every month. So,

Buon Giorno, Prego, Ciao�

These are some of the phrases you’ll need to learn if you decide to retire to Italy. Why Italia? Here are some reasons why.

First, “la dolce vita,” literally translated into “the sweet life.” And, that is Italy, probably Europe’s most seductive country. And, my personal favorite, perhaps because I’m of Italian ancestry.

Italy has almost 20% of its population over 65 years old with that figure projected to rise to 34% by 2050. In contrast, in the US, there were only 14.3% of the population, who were 14 years or younger in 2005. The age-wise demographic distribution in Italy is certainly weighted with senior citizens being predominant, and will become further tilted in their favor.

Everyday Italian life appears to go by more slowly than in North America and other western European countries. If you were to ask at random what someone’s goal in life is, the most common answer would not be “success”, but “a good life.” Emphasizing family over work or money plays a leading role in this belief.

Here is just some of what Italy has to offer – classic farmhouses surrounded by vineyards, Alpine resorts, beautiful lakes, medieval walled towns, sandy beaches, centuries of history, art, and culture, and, of course, delicious food and wine.

And, the smells of Italy are marvelous – a whiff of espresso early in the morning, the tangy smell of citrus as you wander through a grove of lemon trees, the aroma of a pizza topped with anchovies, cheeses and tomatoes as it’s served to you, that slightly salty sea air when you’re at the beachâÂ?¦

Remember your first trip to Florence, enjoying all that impressive artwork? Well, all of Italy offers great artwork to see and appreciate. And, on a small scale, to purchase for your own personal enjoyment. Imagine living just a short drive away from some of the world most famous masterpieces, buildings and ruins.

Medical care in Europe is about 30% to 50% less than in the US, and the quality of care is equal to and in some case better than what you get in the United States. If you need medical insurance it is readily available through a worldwide network of specialist brokers, independent financial advisors, or via the plan insurers themselves, who advertise extensively through magazines and expatriate media.

International Living currently advertises a new small villa with 4,000+ square feet of garden, in the Lazio town of Civitella d’Agliano for $196,000 USD. This is the province that includes Rome, so you’d be close to a big city. In Italy’s toe, you can purchase a home for a mere $108,000 USD which is move-in ready. It’s located near an attractive seaside town with a population of around 10,000 people.

The Le Marche region of Italy is still relatively unspoiled and full of Italian culture and charm. It’s situated halfway down the country’s eastern coast and has almost 200 kilometers of coastline, gorgeous beaches and 26 medieval towns that face the turquoise Adriatic Sea. Currently this region has restored and unrestored farmhouses, villas, apartments and vacant land for sale. It’s estimated that the prices are 30-35% lower than Tuscany.

In Apulia, near the town of Martina Franca and not too far from the Adriatic Sea, $98,000 USD is the price for an almost completed 2,305-square-foot villa with a huge veranda. The land also has 100 olive trees on it.

Most tourists are convinced Italy is expensive. Have a coffee on Via Veneto in Rome and it’s true. However, once away from the touristy spots, you don’t have to spend a fortune. Fresh tomatoes are about $ .60 – $ .65 a pound, approximately $3 a pound for a good mozzarella cheese and a fairly good bottle of wine starts at about $3 a bottle. You can eat lunch for $5-6 (USD) and enjoy a dinner for two, with two courses for about $20 USD, maybe less.

If you’re considering relocating to Italy, I congratulate you on your superb taste. I also encourage you to learn all you can about what to expect in your new country and your new home. I also suggest several trips to different regions in the country to explore each area you might one day call home.