Moving to Parma, Italy
Last updated on Aug 12, 2024
Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Parma, Italy for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant art scene, and delicious cuisine. The city is known for its world-renowned Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma ham, and other local delicacies. Parma is also home to several universities, making it an attractive destination for students and academics. Additionally, the city is located in the Emilia-Romagna region, which is known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque villages. Before moving to Parma, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than the national average. Additionally, the city is known for its hot and humid summers, so it is important to be prepared for the heat. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette, as well as the language barrier. Finally, it is important to research the job market and housing options before making the move.
What do I need to know before moving to Parma?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Parma, they said:
"Parma is a beautiful city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture. Expats should be aware that the city is quite small, so it is important to research the area before moving to ensure that it is the right fit. Additionally, the cost of living in Parma is relatively high, so expats should plan accordingly. It is also important to note that the city is quite traditional and conservative, so expats should be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for expats, so it is important to learn some basic Italian before moving to Parma," replied a member in Parma.
"Start early and look at everything that you can. You cannot tell what a place is like from pictures or even from the outside. Also, try to find a local that can help you," commented one expat who made the move to Parma.
How do I find a place to live in Parma?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One option for finding a place to live in Parma is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Immobiliare.it, Casa.it, and Idealista.it are popular sites for finding rental properties in Parma. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who specialize in rental properties in the area. You can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in the city. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Parma if they know of any available rental properties," commented one expat who made the move to Parma.
"We were desperate as we couldn't find anything to fit our needs so we just took the one we could find. It is not a great fit for us and we have continued to search for another apartment to no avail. Italy is a place where you have to know someone and we are just now finding those connections after 2 years," remarked one expat in Parma, 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 is a typical expat home or apartment like in Parma?
"Expat homes and apartments in Parma are typically modern and spacious, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The interiors are often decorated with traditional Italian furnishings and artwork, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Expats in Parma can also enjoy the convenience of modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and cable television," said one expat who made the move to Parma.
What is the average cost of housing in Parma?
If you are thinking about moving to Parma, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Parma can vary depending on the size and location of the property. Generally, the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around €700-800 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment can cost around €900-1000 per month. Outside of the city center, the cost of housing can be significantly lower," said one expat in Parma.
Should I buy or rent a home in Parma?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Parma, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Parma can be a great investment. The city is known for its rich culture, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. The cost of living in Parma is relatively low compared to other cities in Italy, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. Additionally, the city is well-connected to other parts of Italy, making it easy to travel to other cities and explore the country. Renting a home in Parma is also an option, and can be a great way to experience the city without the commitment of buying a home. Renting can be a great way to explore the city and get to know the area before making a long-term commitment," said one expat in Parma.
What should I pack when moving to Parma?
We asked people living in Parma to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Parma, 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 in Parma, Italy.
"Things I wish I brought: 1. Toll House chocolate chips 2. Asian food supplies (Hot and Sour soup mix) 3. Mascara (horribly expensive here) Things I wish I had left behind: 1. garden furniture (no garden) 2. extra furniture that doesn't fit 3. hair dryer, curling iron - don't work here even with adapters," said one expat in Parma.
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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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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Parma?
We asked people in Parma 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!:
"In Parma, it is important to be aware of cultural norms and etiquette. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements, so it is important to be punctual. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Italians take pride in their appearance. It is also important to be respectful of religious customs, as Italy is a predominantly Catholic country. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as not speaking with your mouth full or eating with your hands. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English unless it is absolutely necessary," commented one expat who made the move to Parma.
Why do people move to Parma?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Parma, they responded:
"Parma is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant art scene, and excellent cuisine. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Romanesque Cathedral and the Palazzo della Pilotta. Parma is also home to a number of universities, making it an ideal place for expats to pursue higher education. The city is well-connected to other parts of Italy and Europe, making it easy to explore the rest of the country. Additionally, the cost of living in Parma is relatively low, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money," replied one expat when asked about moving to Parma.
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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 Parma?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Parma, they replied:
"Parma is home to a wide range of healthcare services. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a variety of specialized clinics and medical centers. The city also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, Parma has a number of medical professionals, including general practitioners, specialists, and nurses, who provide a range of medical services. The city also has a number of health insurance providers, allowing residents to access the healthcare services they need," stated one expat who made the move to Parma.
What are medical services in Parma like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Parma, they replied:
"Parma offers a wide range of medical services for its citizens. The city has several hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. The city also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores. Additionally, Parma has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care to the city's residents," remarked one expat in Parma.
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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