Episode 66

Why Moving to Italy Could Be the Smartest Financial Decision You Ever Made

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson explores one of the biggest questions for anyone thinking about a move to Italy: Is now a smart time financially? With global economic and political uncertainty, it’s normal to hesitate before making such a big life change. But as Samantha explains, the timing might actually be better than ever for relocating—whether for retirement, remote work, or property investment.

She highlights four key reasons why moving to Italy isn’t just a dream—it can be a smart financial move. First, the tax incentives for new residents are hard to beat. Italy offers some of the best breaks in Europe, including a flat 7% tax for retirees with foreign pensions, 5% for self-employed individuals earning up to €85,000, and even a flat €200,000 tax option for high earners—making Italy feel like a mini tax haven for newcomers.

Next, the cost of living in Italy is considerably lower than in major cities like London, New York, or Toronto. From affordable housing to groceries and dining out, euros go further here, offering a higher quality of life without compromise.

The property market is another big draw. Prices have been low for years, but there are still incredible opportunities to buy beautiful homes at a fraction of what they cost in other European countries. Acting now is key, as more international buyers are entering the market.

Finally, new visa options make it easier than ever to relocate. With pathways for retirees, remote workers, and investors, moving to Italy is far less daunting than it used to be.

Samantha also answers listener questions on practical topics like converting a UK driver’s license and investor visa requirements.

If you’ve been thinking about making the move, this episode lays out the financial advantages and shows why Italy could be one of the smartest decisions you ever make.

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About the Podcast

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A New Life in Italy
Live longer. Spend less. Smile more.

About your hosts

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Samantha Wilson

For those who know me and those whom I have had the honor to help move to Italy, you know that I am obsessed with taking complex things and boiling them down into small, actionable, easy-to-do steps.

I am a bit of a freak about it and can’t remember when I wasn’t the “problem solver – solution seeker” in the confused crowd.

My dad used to say I was just stubborn or unwilling to accept “you can’t do that” for an answer. Still, I always believed that if you can look at a problem from every angle, break it down, and have the support and knowledge to move through and over the barriers, anything is possible.

Now, in my new life in Italy, I use my obsession with planning and finding solutions to help people from all over the world successfully move to Italy, whether to live part-time or full-time, with less stress and mistakes.

I am considered one of the top relocation experts in Italy and am the founder and Chief Dream Maker at Smart Move Italy (www.smartmoveitaly.com) where my team of experts and I work tirelessly to help smooth the pathway to a new life in Italy- and I hope that we can help you too.
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London Niro

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Ali Frothingham