How much does it really cost to move to Italy?

In this episode, we break down the real cost of moving to Italy so you can understand what to expect financially and emotionally before making a big decision. Not the Instagram version. Not extreme worst case scenarios you find online. Real numbers, real planning, and the real life behind the move.

In the first episode of Season 4 of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson walks you through the true costs of relocating to Italy, including one time moving expenses, ongoing monthly living costs, visa and immigration fees, housing setup, and the hidden cost offsets many people overlook. We also talk honestly about the financial and emotional cost of staying where you are.

This episode is not about convincing you to move to Italy or pushing you toward a timeline. It’s about replacing fear and overwhelm with clarity, so you can decide if moving to Italy makes sense for your life, your finances, and your future.

If you’ve been dreaming about Italy but feeling stuck in the planning phase, this episode will help you see the full picture and take your next step with confidence.

Links and Resources

Download the companion workbook for this episode to walk through the numbers calmly and clearly at your own pace.

You’re not making decisions today. You’re gathering information so you can move forward with confidence when the time is right.

Visit Smart Move Italy

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

This season finale is a look back at the questions that mattered most. The ones you saved, shared, and replayed because they helped you make smarter decisions about moving to Italy.

In this episode, I revisit our most popular topics from the true cost of living in Italy and whether €2,000 a month is realistic, to buying property, renovation surprises, investor visa rules, document apostilles, and what foreigners really need to know before making a move.

It is also a thank you. Your messages, voice notes, and stories shape this show, and being part of your journey to Italy is something I am truly grateful for.

I also share a sneak peek of season four, launching January 14, 2026, where we go deeper into real life in Italy with more behind the scenes conversations, honest debates, and updates from people actively navigating their move.

Save the parts that speak to you, share this episode with someone who dreams of Italy, and stay connected with me on Instagram or through our newsletter.

Italy is waiting for you.

Mentioned in this episode:

Sentire Media Website

APP Link

APP Link

Sentire Media Website

In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really happening in Italy’s rental market right now — the good, the bad, and the red flags you need to know before you commit to a property.

More people are searching for rentals from outside Italy than ever before, and with that has come a noticeable rise in scams, misleading listings, and contracts that can’t support residency. While there are absolutely excellent properties, owners, and agencies out there, there are also situations where things aren’t what they seem. My goal in this episode is to help you understand the current landscape so you can rent safely and confidently.

I walk through the most common issues I’m seeing: listings that look legitimate but don’t exist, owners who aren’t legally authorized to rent, properties that can’t be used for residency, and contracts that fall outside the protections of Italian law. I also explain why certain contract types — like transitorio, 3+2, and 4+4 — offer real legal security, and why anything outside of those structures can put you at risk.

I share examples of what’s going wrong for people right now, especially renters searching from abroad who are relying on photos alone, skipping contract registration, or trusting AI tools to review legal documents. These are simple mistakes, but they’re costing people money, time, and in some cases, their ability to secure residency.

My goal isn’t to scare you (safe, legal rentals do exist), but to make sure you understand how the market is shifting and what that means for you. With the right steps, you can protect your money, your residency process, and your peace of mind.

I also answer listener questions on suitability certificates, converting tourist contracts to long-term leases, and whether short-term rentals can be used for residency.

If you’re planning to rent in Italy next year, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need to do it the right way.