Retire in Rome
Last updated on Jun 05, 2023
Summary: Rome, Italy is a popular destination for retirees due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture. The weather in Rome is typically mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit. There are several retirement communities in Rome, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Rome is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.
What is it like to retire in Rome?
"Retirees in Rome and its surroundings enjoy a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community, with many retirees from other countries living in the area. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as walking tours, bike tours, and boat tours. For those looking for a more active nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Rome is a great place for retirees to enjoy their retirement years," said one retiree in Rome.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"Overseas retirees often advise others to research the country thoroughly before relocating. This should include learning about the culture, customs, customs laws and restrictions, and medical and social security requirements. Knowing the language can be extremely helpful and can open up opportunities for connection and exploration. Being familiar with the cost of living for an expat couple can also be very useful in helping to determine the budget for retirement abroad. It is also highly recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance policy in place. Finally, build an understanding of the potential risk regarding investment and taxation. Making sure these are considered can help prospective retirees avoid costly financial complications," said one retiree in Rome.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Rome?
"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Rome is the cost of living. Rome is an expensive city, and the cost of housing, food, and other necessities can be quite high. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Italian. It can be difficult to navigate the city and access services without a good grasp of the language. Finally, the climate in Rome can be difficult to adjust to, especially for those who are used to cooler climates," explained one retiree living in Rome.
What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Rome?
"Retiring in Rome offers a wealth of rewarding experiences. From the city's rich history and culture to its vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city's mild climate and stunning architecture make it a great place to relax and take in the sights. Additionally, Rome is home to a wide variety of museums, galleries, and other attractions, providing plenty of opportunities to explore and learn. With its excellent public transportation system, retirees can easily get around the city and take advantage of all it has to offer," explained a retiree in Rome.
What are healthcare services like in Rome?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Rome. They wrote:
"Rome offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The Italian National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) provides free or low-cost healthcare to all Italian citizens, including those living in Rome. The city also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer a variety of medical services. Rome is home to several world-renowned medical research centers, such as the National Institute for Cancer Research and the National Institute for Infectious Diseases. Additionally, the city has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases and the Institute for Neurological Diseases. Rome also has a number of pharmacies and health stores that offer a variety of over-the-counter medications and health products," said a retiree who moved to Rome, Italy.
How do I meet people in Rome?
When we asked people living in Rome about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Rome often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as well as attending meetups and networking events. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals," explained one retiree living in Rome.
What is life like in Rome?
When we asked people living in Rome what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Rome as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is full of culture, history, and art, and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions to explore. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and beautiful architecture. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and plenty of coworking spaces to choose from. Rome is a great place to live for those looking for a unique and exciting experience," explained one retiree living in Rome.
What do I need to know before retiring in Rome?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rome, they said:
"Before retiring in Rome, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Italian, as it will be necessary for everyday life. Additionally, expats should research the cost of living in Rome, as it is known to be higher than other parts of Italy. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Rome, as it is different from other countries. Expats should also be aware of the cultural differences between their home country and Italy, and be prepared to adjust to the local customs. Finally, expats should research the visa requirements for retirement in Rome, as they may need to apply for a special visa," said a retiree who moved to Rome, Italy.
What type of recreational activities are there in Rome?
"Rome is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to several parks, including Villa Borghese, a large public park with gardens, a lake, and a zoo. The Colosseum is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient amphitheater. The city also has several sports facilities, including the Stadio Olimpico, which hosts football matches and other sporting events. The city also has several swimming pools, including the Acqua Santa, a large outdoor pool located in the city center. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the city has several spas and wellness centers, offering a variety of treatments and services. Finally, Rome is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions, offering visitors a chance to explore the city's rich history and culture," explained one retiree living in Rome.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Rome?
"Rome is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular grocery stores for expats is Conad, which has several locations throughout the city. Conad offers a wide selection of international and Italian products, as well as fresh produce and prepared meals. Another popular grocery store for expats is Esselunga, which has a large selection of international products and a wide variety of Italian specialties. For other shopping, expats can visit the many markets in Rome, such as the Campo de' Fiori market, which offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other items. Additionally, expats can visit the many shopping malls in Rome, such as the Roma Est Mall, which has a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options," remarked one retiree in Rome.
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Rome?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rome?
- What is the average cost of housing in Rome?
- How do I meet people in Rome?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Rome?
- What should I pack when moving to Rome?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Rome?
- Will I be able to find a job in Rome?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Rome?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Rome?
- What is the social scene like in Rome?
- What advice to expats in Rome have about housing?
- What are medical services in Rome like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rome?
- Is the cost of living in Rome high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Rome?
- Why do people move to Rome?


