Retiring in Milan, Italy

Milan, Italy's financial and fashion capital, offers retirees a sophisticated urban lifestyle with excellent healthcare, cultural attractions, and international connections. While costs are higher, the city provides outstanding quality of life and modern amenities.

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

Pros

  • ✓ Excellent healthcare
  • ✓ International environment
  • ✓ Modern infrastructure
  • ✓ Great shopping
  • ✓ Cultural events
  • ✓ Good public transport

Cons

  • × High cost of living
  • × Cold winters
  • × Air pollution
  • × Fast-paced lifestyle
  • × Less traditional charm

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 9/10

Available public transport: Metro, Trams, Buses, Regional Trains

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F

Winter

Average temperature: 1°C / 34°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 943mm

Sunny days per year: 260

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

World-class public healthcare facilities

Private Options

Multiple international clinics and specialists

Wait Times

1-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale Niguarda
  • Policlinico di Milano
  • Istituto Clinico Humanitas
  • San Raffaele Hospital

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Large international community with diverse networking opportunities

Activities

Opera at La Scala Art exhibitions Fashion events Food tours Design shows Sports events

Local Markets

  • Mercato Metropolitano
  • Mercato Centrale
  • Viale Papiniano Market
  • Mercato di Via Fauché

Cultural Events

  • Milan Fashion Week
  • Salone del Mobile
  • Milano Film Festival
  • Milano Art Week

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €500
  • Utilities €200
  • Restaurant Meal €35

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • BPM
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Fineco

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Brera
  • Navigli
  • Isola
  • Porta Venezia
  • CityLife

Sources

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