Portofino, Italy: Cost of Living, Healthcare, Local Clubs and Activities, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Portofino

Portofino, Italy

Last updated on Jul 11, 2023

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Portofino, Italy. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.

What do I need to know about living in Portofino?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Portofino, they said:

"Expats considering retirement in Portofino, should be aware that the cost of living can be quite high, especially in comparison to other parts of Italy. The town is known for its luxury lifestyle, with high-end boutiques, restaurants, and real estate. Understanding the Italian language is crucial for a comfortable life in Portofino as not everyone speaks English. It's also important to familiarize yourself with the Italian healthcare system, which is a mix of public and private services. Expats should also be aware of the Italian tax system. Italy has a tax treaty with many countries to avoid double taxation, but it's important to understand your tax obligations in both your home country and Italy. Portofino has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers, which can be a significant change if you're coming from a country with a different climate. The pace of life in Portofino is slower than in many other places, which can be a big adjustment. The town is also quite small, which means that while you'll have access to beautiful scenery and a close-knit community, you may not have as many amenities or activities as in a larger city. Italian bureaucracy can be complex and time-consuming, so be prepared for potentially lengthy processes when it comes to things like getting a residence permit, setting up utilities, or buying a property. Finally, it's important to note that while Portofino is a beautiful and luxurious place to live, it can also be quite crowded, especially during the tourist season. This can lead to increased prices and a lack of privacy," remarked one expat who made the move to Portofino.

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What do I need to know before moving to Portofino?

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.