Yes, Florence is widely considered a good place to live in 2025, especially for creatives, digital nomads, students, and retirees who value culture, lifestyle balance, and historical surroundings. While it’s not without its drawbacks—such as tourist congestion and central housing costs—the city offers a high quality of life thanks to its walkability, healthcare system, and vibrant expat community.
A 2025 study by the European Urban Livability Index ranked Florence among the top 5 mid-sized European cities for lifestyle satisfaction. The study highlighted Florence’s excellent public safety, cultural access, healthcare infrastructure, and local engagement, making it especially appealing to non-Italians looking to settle in a culturally rich, manageable urban environment.
Why Florence is a Good Place to Live?
Florence balances historical beauty with a relaxed lifestyle. Unlike Rome, which can feel chaotic, or Milan, which is often career-centric, Florence offers residents a slower, more personal urban experience.
Florence is Ideal For:
- Students: Access to world-renowned art schools, universities, and international programs.
- Digital Nomads: Coworking spots, reliable internet, and a rising community of remote professionals.
- Retirees: Pleasant climate, good healthcare, and a peaceful atmosphere.
The city’s compact layout makes daily life more manageable, and its pace is noticeably slower than that of Rome or Milan.
- Rome is larger, more chaotic, and steeped in government bureaucracy.
- Milan offers more business opportunities, especially in finance and design, but comes with higher stress and costs.
Pros of Living in Florence
- Art & Cultural Immersion
Live minutes away from the Uffizi, the Duomo, and countless galleries. - Walkable City Center
Most essentials are within walking distance, reducing reliance on cars. - Exceptional Food & Wine
Tuscan cuisine and Chianti wine are central to everyday life. - Tight-Knit Communities
Friendly locals and vibrant expat groups foster social ease. - Mild Mediterranean Climate
Winters are short; spring and fall are particularly pleasant.
Cons of Living in Florence
- High Tourist Volume
During peak seasons, the historic center can feel overwhelmed. - Italian Bureaucracy
Processes like residency registration and permit renewal are slow. - Expensive Central Housing
Rent in the historic center is high relative to salary averages. - Limited Public Transit
No metro; local buses are functional but infrequent. - Language Barrier
English is common in tourist zones but limited in bureaucratic and medical contexts.
Best Neighborhoods to Live in Florence
| Neighborhood | Key Traits |
|---|---|
| Santa Croce | Central, artistic, historic charm |
| Santo Spirito | Local vibe, lively nightlife |
| Campo di Marte | Quiet, green, family-friendly |
| Novoli | Modern buildings, university zone |
| Gavinana | Residential, green, authentic life |
Cost of Living in Florence (2025)
A 2025 report from Numbeo, a global crowd-sourced cost-of-living database, places Florence as moderately priced compared to other major Italian cities. It remains more affordable than Milan and comparable to Bologna in overall monthly expenses.
| Category | Cost Estimate (Monthly) | Details & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | ||
| – City Center | €1,400 – €1,800 | 1-bedroom apartment, higher demand from expats, students, and short-term visitors. |
| – Outskirts | €850 – €1,100 | More space for less cost; good options in Novoli and Campo di Marte. |
| Groceries (for 2) | €400 – €500 | Use markets like Sant’Ambrogio for fresh, affordable produce. |
| Utilities | €120 – €180 | Includes gas, electricity, water, and internet. |
| Transport Pass | ~€35 | Monthly ATAF bus pass; bike-sharing also available. |
| Overall Comparison | Florence < Milan, ≈ Bologna | Housing is cheaper than Milan; overall costs similar to Bologna. |
Budgeting Tips:
- Opt for neighborhoods just outside the historical center for better rent.
- Buy from local markets to save on fresh produce and meat.
- Use bikes or shared scooters to avoid high fuel or taxi costs.
For deeper insights, refer to Numbeo’s Cost of Living in Florence.
Living in Florence as a Digital Nomad or Expat
Florence has grown increasingly attractive to remote workers, thanks in part to Italy’s evolving visa landscape.
Remote Work Infrastructure
- Reliable Wi-Fi in most apartments and cafés.
- Popular coworking spaces: Impact Hub, Multiverso, and The Student Hotel.
Digital Nomad Visa
Italy officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa in 2024, providing easier long-term stays for remote workers earning outside the country.
[Link to digital nomad visa page]
Housing Tips for Newcomers
- Use platforms like Idealista or Immobiliare.it.
- Consider short-term Airbnb stays while apartment-hunting.
Social Integration
- Join Facebook groups like “Expats in Florence” and attend local language exchanges.
- Santo Spirito is a hotspot for international community events.
Safety, Healthcare & Public Services
Safety
- Violent crime is rare.
- Petty theft (bags, phones) occurs mainly in high-tourism zones.
Healthcare
- Public hospitals like Careggi are well-equipped but busy.
- Private options offer faster appointments; costs are affordable (~€80/visit).
- Many providers speak English, though not guaranteed.
Services & Accessibility
- Emergency services (112) respond promptly.
- English-speaking help desks are increasing but still limited in public offices.
- Learn basic Italian phrases for smoother integration.
Final Verdict: Should You Move to Florence?
Florence is a great place to live in 2025—if your lifestyle aligns with what it offers. It’s best suited for:
- Retirees looking for health access, calm, and beauty.
- Creatives and students drawn to history, art, and academia.
- Digital nomads who want Europe without the Milanese rush.
Mosaab is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert with a passion for travel, culture, and global cuisine. Drawing from his experience as a courier in Florence, he offers unique insights into the city’s hidden gems and rich history.
