Moving to Turin, Italy
Last updated on Apr 21, 2023
Summary: Turin, Italy is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and excellent cuisine. The city is also known for its beautiful architecture, with many Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings. Additionally, Turin is home to some of the world's most renowned museums, galleries, and libraries. Before moving to Turin, it is important to be aware of the city's high cost of living. Additionally, the city is known for its cold winters, so it is important to be prepared for the cold weather. It is also important to be aware of the language barrier, as Italian is the primary language spoken in Turin. Finally, it is important to research the city's public transportation system, as it is the most efficient way to get around the city.
What do I need to know before moving to Turin?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Turin, they said:
"Turin is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a great quality of life. Expats should be aware that the cost of living in Turin is relatively high, so it is important to budget accordingly. It is also important to note that the city is quite spread out, so having a car or reliable public transportation is essential. Additionally, the weather in Turin can be quite unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all types of weather. Finally, it is important to note that the language spoken in Turin is Italian, so it is beneficial to learn some basic Italian before moving to the city," said one expat who made the move to Turin.
"Keeping looking for the "right" place. Be willing to compromise on the small things. Make your home a nice place to go to when you feel overwhelmed--make sure it has your personality and is comfortable. Don't get the TV hooked-up for 6 months. Get out and find out about the neighborhood, social groups and learn Italian," explained one expat living in Torino, Italy.
How do I find a place to live in Turin?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Turin is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings for apartments, houses, and other types of accommodation in the city. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and magazines. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live in Turin. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the city for recommendations," remarked one expat who made the move to Turin.
"We used a Relocation Agent I asked the company to hire. We looked at 15-16 apartments, most of which were terrible. Landlords rent the 4-walls and not much else. Painting, repairs, lighting and installing a kitchen is up to the tenant (Ikea is the most economical for kitchens). We have only 1 car, so it was important to be on/near a public transportation line (excellent, by the way) and close in to the city," explained one expat living in Torino, Italy.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Turin?
"We live in a 2 bedroom, 2 bath room apartment with 10 foot ceilings, a parking garage, elevator and doorman. It is fairly typical. Other choices to living in the city are the small hills above the city where a duplex is the norm (called Villas), or occasionally a single-family home is available," said one expat who made the move to Torino.
"Expat homes and apartments in Turin are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The interiors are often decorated with contemporary furnishings and artwork, and the kitchens are typically well-equipped with modern appliances. Expats in Turin can also expect to find plenty of amenities in their neighborhoods, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops," explained one expat living in Turin, Italy.
What is the average cost of housing in Turin?
If you are thinking about moving to Turin, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Turin can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the area. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Turin is around €800-€1,000 per month, while the cost of buying a property can range from €1,500 to €2,500 per square meter," remarked one expat who made the move to Turin.
"Much higher. Meat is expensive. Gasoline/diesel is high. It's cheaper to buy clothes and house items in the US on holidays and bring them back in the suitcase," explained one expat living in Torino, Italy.
Should I buy or rent a home in Turin?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Turin, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Turin can be a great investment, as the city is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful architecture. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in the city, as well as the availability of rental properties. Renting a home in Turin can be a great option for those who are looking for a more flexible living situation, as it allows for more freedom to move around and explore the city. Additionally, renting can be a more cost-effective option for those who are not yet ready to commit to buying a home. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Turin will depend on your individual needs and preferences," said one expat in Turin.
What should I pack when moving to Turin?
We asked people living in Turin to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Turin, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack clothing that is appropriate for the weather, such as light layers for the summer and warm layers for the winter. Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the city, as well as a raincoat and umbrella for the occasional rain shower. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items that remind you of home, such as photos, books, and music. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport and visa," remarked one expat who made the move to Turin.
"What I brought: 1. Good Seasonings Salad Dressing Packets. The fresh produce is fantastic, but salad dressing is either oil, vinegar with salt & pepper, or creamy brands from France. The seasoning packets are fantastic when made with olive oil and balsamic vinegar! 2. Small cookie sheets & baking dishes: ovens are smaller. 3. A good camera to document our adventure from the beginning. Leave Behind: More Clothing. Relocating from the Northeast, our clothes were too heavy (even Northern Italy is mild compared with Boston--both winters are summers). Also, Italians tend to be more formal and more fashionable in their attire. Short-Ban Radio. Never used it. Bikes. They were stolen," explained one expat living in Torino, Italy.
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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Turin?
We asked people in Turin if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be aware of the cultural norms in Turin, to avoid making any cultural faux pas. For example, it is considered rude to be late for social engagements, so it is important to arrive on time. Additionally, it is important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as dressing too casually or too formally can be seen as disrespectful. It is also important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as not speaking with your mouth full or not eating with your hands. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and to avoid making any negative comments about the country or its people," remarked one expat in Turin, Italy.
"I do it all the time....most due to mispronunciations or verb tenses. I wore shorts and a t-shirt out in my "garden" (think no grass, just bricks) due to what I'd call heat. I swear I have permanent heat stroke here. My landlord comes out of his apartment in long pants and a coat. I'm from the northern US. I got the funniest look from him. He can't understand why we haven't turned on the heat yet," said one expat in Torino.
Why do people move to Turin?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Turin, they responded:
"Turin is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and beautiful parks. Turin is also home to some of the best universities in Italy, making it an ideal place for students and academics. The city is well-connected to the rest of Europe, with easy access to the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. Additionally, Turin offers a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats looking to stretch their budget," said one expat.
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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services Turin?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Turin, they replied:
"Turin offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city is home to a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of medical services, including general and specialized care. The city also has a number of specialized centers for the treatment of specific conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health. Additionally, Turin has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide a range of products and services related to health and wellness. The city also has a number of health centers that offer preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings. Finally, Turin has a number of specialized centers for the elderly, providing services such as home care and rehabilitation," wrote one expat living in Turin.
What are medical services in Turin like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Turin, they replied:
"Turin offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality care and treatment. The city also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized care for specific medical conditions. Additionally, Turin has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide a variety of medications and medical supplies. The city also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel, who are available to provide medical care and advice," wrote one expat living in Turin.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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