How Much Does It Cost To Move to Italy From the US?
Fact Checked by: The cost to move to Italy from the US can range from $6,400 and $18,000. This includes the cost of professional movers, your initial payment to a landlord, visa applications and more incidental expenses. No matter your reasoning for moving, whether it be to raise a family or to retire, you’ll have plenty of costs to consider.
Here are some potential costs:
- International shipping: Movers charge by volume and weight. If you choose ocean freight, you’ll have longer shipping times and lower costs. Air freight costs more and offers expedited shipping times.
- Visas: Applying for a National Visa will cost $133.72. Along with the fee, you’ll have to supply proof of identification and demonstrate your reasoning for entering the country.
- Rent: One-bedroom rent in Florence costs $1,120 each month. Expect to pay this, plus a security deposit equaling one to three months’ rent.
When moving from the US to Italy, hiring a top international moving company will provide the best protection for your goods via insurance and qualified labor. After you’ve gotten quotes from some of the top providers below and a qualified car shipper, use our guide to help you prepare for life in Italy.
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Average cost of moving to Italy from the US
Your average cost of shipping your goods from the US to Italy is $2,900 to $5,700 when split between ocean and air shipments. You’ll have to compromise convenience for cost or vice versa when choosing between both shipping methods.
Sending most of your goods in a shipping container with essentials getting expedited service via a plane shipment will help you to get settled quicker. You won’t have to unnecessarily blow your entire move budget on a larger air freight shipment for all of your goods.
Sea freight costs from the US to Italy
Any moving company you’ll talk to will probably arrange for a shipping container to handle your household goods. Quality movers try to keep costs as manageable as possible, and this is the most cost-effective shipping option available.
You will have to cope with longer shipping times if you choose this method, however. Goods take three to six weeks to arrive in Italy from the US. Basic shipping rates range from $2,600 to $4,900, depending on your distance and route. Remember that this is one of many cost factors for any relocation, and that your total will be higher.
| From | To | Container Cost* | Delivery Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Genoa, IT | $2,600 | 20 days |
| Los Angeles | Genoa, IT | $4,900 | 40 days |
| Houston | Genoa, IT | $3,900 | 35 days |
| New York | Naples, IT | $2,900 | ~20 days |
| Los Angeles | Naples, IT | ~$4,900 | ~40 days |
| Houston | Naples, IT | ~$3,100 | ~35 days |
*Source: BRLogistics cost and delivery window estimates for 20-foot shipping containers.
Air freight costs from the US to Italy
If you want to send a small parcel of essential items, air freight is still viable. Even if you’re moving on a budget and trying to save more money for living expenses, this can make your first few weeks after moving less stressful.
| From | To | Shipment Cost* | Delivery Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York | Genoa, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
| Los Angeles | Genoa, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
| Houston | Genoa, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
| New York | Naples, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
| Los Angeles | Naples, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
| Houston | Naples, IT | $300–$800 | 2 to 8 days |
*Source: Freightos.com’s average rate for a 100-kg air shipment.
How much does it cost to live in Italy?
Without rent, the cost of living is 15.4% lower in Italy than in the US according to Numbeo resident data. When housing and rent are factored in, the overall cost of living is 28.1% lower.
Nationwide rent averages show this disparity, with a one-bedroom apartment going for $1,738.75 in the states and $825.36 per month in Italy: a difference of more than 50%. Low grocery prices are also a contributing factor, at 20.3% under American norms.
You might have to take a large pay cut after your move, however. Italy’s net monthly wages average to $1,791.61. Compare that to the states’ $4,329.78 figure, and you have quite the shortfall to make up.
Housing costs in Italy
We compared two cities with about the same population here. It’s worth noting that Florence is a huge tourist hub, which inflates prices. Rent across Italy is cheaper than most places in the US. Here, Florence rent for a one-bedroom apartment is nearly 20% higher.
The price of home ownership can be far steeper after you make this move. Median home prices in the states were $419,200 at the end of 2024. Some areas of Italy, like Trentino-Alto Adige have far higher averages. Your average price for this would be $372,000.
| Apartment | Wichita, KS | Florence | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR rental | $942.50 | $1,120 | +18.8% |
| 3BR rental | $1,620 | $2,196.36 | +35.6% |
| Price per sq. ft. (for purchase) | $143.85 | $546.26 | +279.7% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Florence and Wichita (March 2025)
Finding accommodations is a stressful component of any move. We’ve all heard horror stories from renters about shady landlords, and no location will be without its drawbacks in this area. We always think it’s a good idea to hire an expat-friendly real estate agent when moving to a new country.
Along with contracting a real estate firm’s services, using websites like Immobiliare.it, Subito.it, or Mioaffitto.it can all help when vetting listings. Similarly, Facebook Marketplace can have some intriguing options. Ask your real estate agent about any listings that catch your eye from these sites.If you haven’t already chosen a place to settle down, you might be curious about your options.
Here are a few expat-friendly cities to start your search:
- Brescia: Nearly 13% of this northern city’s 200,000 residents are foreigners. The ample outdoor attractions and job opportunities are top reasons for Brescia’s popularity.
- Palermo: Sicily’s capital is home to more than 600,000 expats and Italians; many enjoy its blend of amenities and old-world architecture.
- Lake Como: Lake Como offers easy access to Milan and Switzerland via reliable public transit. If you want a more laid back lifestyle, this is worth considering.
Utilities costs in Italy
Utilities and similar amenities are far cheaper in Florence than in Wichita. Electricity, sewer use and water average 33% more affordable. This can help to balance out the higher rent costs in the city.
| Utility | Wichita, KS | Florence | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| *Basic housing utilities | $319.99 | $214.54 | -33% |
| Internet | $67.78 | $32.71 | -51.7% |
| Monthly cell phone plan | $55.17 | $13.62 | -75.3% |
*Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Florence and Wichita (March 2025)
*Based on the combined cost of electricity, water/sewer, and trash for a 915 square foot apartment as of March 2025
Food costs in Italy
Both groceries and dining out are more costly in Florence. A sit-down meal is nearly 50% more expensive here. However, nationwide averages show cheaper grocery and fine dining prices in Italy.
| Food | Wichita, KS | Florence | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast food meal | $10 | $11.07 | +10.7% |
| 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant | $60 | $88.55 | +47.6% |
| Gallon of milk | $3.44 | $6.30 | +83.2% |
| 1 dozen eggs | $4.05 | $4.71 | +16.2% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Florence and Wichita (March 2025)
Transportation costs in Italy
Lower public transportation costs make it the more cost-effective choice. This trend holds true for Italy as a whole; the price of a monthly transit pass is 23% lower in Florence than in Wichita.
| Transportation Mode | Wichita, KS | Florence | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-way public transit ticket | $1.75 | $1.88 | +7.5% |
| Monthly public transit pass | $55 | $42.34 | -23% |
| Cost of one gallon of gas | $2.96 | $7.48 | +153% |
| *Cost to buy a new car | $24,242.58 | $30,022.67 | +23.8% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Florence and Wichita (March 2025)
*Based on the cost of Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort or equivalent new vehicle as of March 2025
Education costs in Italy
Private early childhood care is much more affordable when looking at city-to-city and country-to-country comparisons. Numbeo lists the monthly cost of this as 27.6% lower in Florence than in Wichita, and 60% lower in Italy than in the US.
| Type of Education | Wichita, KS | Florence | % Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-day private preschool/kindergarten (monthly) | $916.67 | $664.10 | -27.6% |
| International primary school (annual) | $16,000 | $18,755.17 | +17.2% |
Source: Numbeo cost of living comparison of Florence and Wichita (March 2025)
Italy’s visa & immigration requirements
You’ll have a much easier time of becoming a resident in Italy if you’ve gotten a written job offer from a licensed employer. Italian companies or American companies that operate here can help you during the visa process by supplying a letter of endorsement for immigration officials.
You’ll have to apply for either a National Visa or work permit within 90 days of moving to Italy: the sooner, the better. Visa applications can take a long time to complete in Italy’s complex bureaucracy. National Visas cost $133.72 to apply and are valid for up to a full year. Work visas are valid for up to two years, and you can apply for permanent residency in Italy after five years in the country.
Moving to Italy from the US
If you’re moving to Italy, we recommend familiarizing yourself with the culture through studying the language. You’ll also have to get a job offer from an employer authorized to operate in the country. After this, and after going through the visa application process, hiring a professional is needed to make the move and customs clearance easier.
Top international moving companies
Hiring an international moving company is necessary when moving to Italy from the US. Along with packing, loading and transportation of household goods, they’ll help you with customs clearance, shipment tracking and more.
International moving costs can range between $6,400 and $14,800 or more for moves between the US and Italy. Getting quotes from multiple moving companies will help make sure that you’re not overpaying. Each of our recommended providers here offers a range of services and has a great reputation.
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Shipping your vehicle to Italy
If you’re planning to move to a more rural area, keeping your personal vehicle could be a good choice. Public transit in the cities is usually effective, but becomes less so in remote locations. Shipping a car overseas usually costs between $1,000 and $5,000.
Some moving companies can help you here. For example, International Van Lines and JK Moving offer vehicle shipping as an add-on. Getting a quote from one of these movers is a great next step to simplify any move. If you’ve chosen a mover that can’t offer this service, our top car shipping companies each offer well-reviewed services at reasonable rates.
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Tips for moving to Italy from the US
Having a moving abroad checklist is a great way for you to stay organized and on-point during your relocation. We understand how stressful the process can be. It’s even worse if you’re unorganized.
- Learn Italian: The language barrier can be jarring for new residents. You should take classes on the language and culture to avoid feeling isolated in your new home.
- Downsize: Decluttering and getting rid of unnecessary items can save you money and simplify your life before moving.
- Pack yourself: Packing and crating can cost thousands of dollars. Sourcing your own packing materials and packing your own goods saves money and can help you to efficiently downsize.
- Organize vital paperwork: Keeping all identifying paperwork in a central location in your home after you move won’t make it easier to navigate Italy’s complex bureaucratic processes. That said, it can hasten the application process for visas or other permits.
- Look up healthcare options: If you only need basic care, Italy’s public system should have you covered. You can never be too careful, however; look up private supplemental plans when you arrive in-country.
FAQ
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