An Expat Talks about Moving to Florence, Italy
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Florence
Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.
When I moved to Florence, I actually brought five suitcases, way too much of everything. It cost me so much more in fees so would recommend two suitcases at the most. My luggage was too heavy so I wish I would have chosen lighter suitcases, less heavy clothes and less shoes. They have better and less expensive shoes as well as clothes.

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What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?
Join the expat groups online and read or connect with anyone who has lived in the area you choose. I visited Italy two years prior to find the city that suited my needs and personality. You have to narrow down what is important to you, city or country life. Also find a place you can easily catch a train from and has bus service.
What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?
I chose a two bedroom apartment because my 28 year old daughter came with and we wanted our own bedrooms. Plus, we knew we would have relatives and friends come. There was an elevator that maybe half of the apartments have with washer in the unit. Not many houses to rent except maybe in the country.
How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?
I researched a year before moving on the Internet and found apartmentsflorence.com who skyped with me from Florence. Lorenzo the owner described many different options and I felt very comfortable making the decision which apartment to rent before I moved. Took care of the first months rent online, very efficient.
Plan Your Move to Italy
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Plan Your Move to Italy
Quickly and easily find trusted moving, insurance, relocation and other providers with Expat Exchange's Moving Planner. Select which of our trusted partners you would like to hear from and we'll do the rest.
Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?
The euro was high in 2013 when I moved there at 1.47 so my first apartment was 1200 euro a month. I moved closer to the city center by the Ponte Vecchio and I paid 1600 euro which is much higher than Minneapolis. You can stay within 1000 for a two bedroom if you don't mind being out of the center of town or in a lower neighborhood.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Florence
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Florence
- 5 Tips for Living in Florence, Italy
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Italy
- Best Places to Live in Italy
- Real Estate in Italy
- 5 Movies to Get You Excited About Living in Italy
- What It's Like Living in Florence
- Pros and Cons of Living in Italy 2023
- 2023 Guide to Moving to Italy
- More Advice about Retiring in Italy