Retiring in Florence, Italy

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, offers retirees a perfect blend of art, culture, and modern living. With its walkable historic center, world-class museums, and excellent healthcare facilities, Florence provides an ideal setting for culturally-minded retirees seeking the quintessential Tuscan lifestyle.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Rich cultural heritage
  • ✓ Excellent healthcare
  • ✓ Central location in Tuscany
  • ✓ International community
  • ✓ Walkable city center
  • ✓ High quality of life

Cons

  • × Tourist crowds
  • × Higher cost of living
  • × Hot summers
  • × Limited parking
  • × Smaller job market

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 9/10

Available public transport: Buses, Trams, Regional Trains

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 31°C / 88°F

Winter

Average temperature: 6°C / 43°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 867mm

Sunny days per year: 255

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

Well-equipped public hospitals with English-speaking staff

Private Options

Multiple private clinics with international standards

Wait Times

2-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Careggi University Hospital
  • Santa Maria Nuova Hospital
  • Meyer Children's Hospital
  • Private Hospital Villa Donatello

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Large, active expat community with many cultural and social groups

Activities

Art museums Wine tasting Cooking classes Language schools Cultural events Historical tours

Local Markets

  • Mercato Centrale
  • Sant'Ambrogio Market
  • Le Cascine Market
  • Santo Spirito Organic Market

Cultural Events

  • Maggio Musicale
  • Estate Fiorentina
  • Pitti Fashion Week
  • Festa della Rificolona

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €400
  • Utilities €150
  • Restaurant Meal €25

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • Monte dei Paschi di Siena
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Santo Spirito
  • Santa Croce
  • San Frediano
  • Campo di Marte
  • Oltrarno

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Tuscany Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)