Retiring in Rome, Italy

Rome, the Eternal City, offers retirees a unique blend of historical grandeur and modern living. With its rich cultural heritage, excellent healthcare system, and vibrant expat community, Rome provides an unparalleled retirement experience in the heart of Italy.

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

Pros

  • ✓ Rich cultural heritage
  • ✓ Excellent healthcare
  • ✓ International atmosphere
  • ✓ Great public transport
  • ✓ Mild climate
  • ✓ World-class dining

Cons

  • × Higher cost of living
  • × Tourist crowds
  • × City noise
  • × Traffic congestion
  • × Summer heat

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 8/10

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

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F

Winter

Average temperature: 8°C / 46°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 798mm

Sunny days per year: 290

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

Extensive public healthcare system with specialized facilities

Private Options

Numerous private clinics with international standards

Wait Times

2-4 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Policlinico Gemelli
  • Ospedale San Camillo
  • Ospedale San Giovanni
  • Rome American Hospital

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Large, diverse expat community with many social groups and activities

Activities

Historical tours Art galleries Food tours Language schools Cultural events Wine tasting

Local Markets

  • Campo de' Fiori
  • Mercato Trionfale
  • Mercato Testaccio
  • Nuovo Mercato Esquilino

Cultural Events

  • Estate Romana
  • Roma Europa Festival
  • Opera at Caracalla
  • White Night (Notte Bianca)

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €450
  • Utilities €180
  • Restaurant Meal €30

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • BNL
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Trastevere
  • Prati
  • Testaccio
  • Monti
  • Gianicolo

Sources

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