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Moving to Puglia, Italy | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Puglia, Italy

Moving to Puglia, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Nov 03, 2024

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Puglia, Italy for its stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and delicious cuisine. The region is known for its laid-back lifestyle and friendly locals, making it an ideal place to live and work. Before moving to Puglia, it is important to understand the local language and culture, as well as the cost of living. Additionally, expats should research the job market and housing options in the area to ensure they can find suitable employment and accommodation.

Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While
Italian For A While

What do I need to know before moving to Puglia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Puglia, they said:

"Puglia is a beautiful region in the south of Italy, known for its stunning coastline, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. Before moving to Puglia, it is important to research the local culture and customs, as well as the cost of living. It is also important to be aware of the language barrier, as Italian is the main language spoken in the region. Additionally, it is important to research the job market and housing options in the area, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. Finally, it is important to be aware of the climate in Puglia, as it can be quite hot and humid during the summer months," replied a member in Puglia.

How do I find a place to live in Puglia?

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 Puglia is to use online resources such as Airbnb, HomeAway, and other rental websites. You can also search for local real estate agents who specialize in the area. Additionally, you can look for classified ads in local newspapers and online forums. Finally, you can ask friends and family who have visited or lived in the area for recommendations," commented one expat who made the move to Puglia.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Puglia?

"Expat homes and apartments in Puglia are typically spacious and airy, with high ceilings and large windows that let in plenty of natural light. Many of the homes and apartments have terracotta tiled floors, whitewashed walls, and balconies or terraces that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Expats in Puglia often enjoy modern amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and satellite television. Many of the homes and apartments also feature traditional Italian features such as exposed wooden beams, stone fireplaces, and rustic furniture," said one expat in Puglia.

What is the average cost of housing in Puglia?

If you are thinking about moving to Puglia, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Puglia varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in Puglia is relatively affordable compared to other parts of Italy, with prices ranging from around €400 to €1,000 per month. Buying a property in Puglia is also relatively affordable, with prices ranging from €50,000 to €200,000 depending on the size and location," said one expat in Puglia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Puglia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Puglia, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Puglia can be a great investment. The region is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning countryside, and delicious cuisine. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of Italy, making it an attractive option for those looking to purchase a home. Renting a home in Puglia can also be a great option, as it allows you to experience the region without the commitment of buying a home. You can also take advantage of the many short-term rental options available in the area. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Puglia will depend on your individual needs and budget," said one expat who made the move to Puglia.

What should I pack when moving to Puglia?

We asked people living in Puglia to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Puglia, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the Mediterranean climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen are ideal for the hot summers. For the cooler months, pack a few warmer items such as sweaters and a coat. It is also important to bring comfortable walking shoes as the terrain in Puglia can be quite hilly. Additionally, don't forget to pack any necessary medications, toiletries, and other personal items," replied a member in Puglia.

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Connect

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Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

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 Puglia?

We asked people in Puglia 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 Puglia, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Avoid making negative comments about the local culture or people, as this can be seen as offensive. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing clothing, as this is considered inappropriate. It is also important to be aware of the local religious customs and to be respectful of religious sites. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local dining etiquette, such as not speaking loudly or eating with your hands," replied a member in Puglia.

Why do people move to Puglia?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Puglia, they responded:

"Puglia is an attractive destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage, and its vibrant local communities. The region is known for its stunning coastline, with miles of sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque fishing villages. The region also boasts a wealth of historical sites, from ancient Greek and Roman ruins to medieval castles and churches. The local cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients and delicious flavors, and the region is home to some of the best wines in Italy. The cost of living in Puglia is also relatively low, making it an attractive option for expats looking for a more affordable lifestyle. Finally, the people of Puglia are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming attitude, making it a great place to settle down and make new friends," remarked one expat in Puglia.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While
Connect

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.

Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

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.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

How are healthcare services Puglia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Puglia, they replied:

"Puglia offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The region is served by a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Public healthcare is provided by the National Health Service (SSN), which offers free or low-cost medical care to all citizens. Private healthcare is also available, with many private hospitals and clinics offering a range of services. In addition, there are a number of specialized medical centers, such as those for cancer treatment, mental health, and rehabilitation. The region also has a number of pharmacies, which provide prescription and over-the-counter medications. Finally, Puglia has a number of health promotion initiatives, such as health education programs and health screenings," replied one expat when asked about moving to Puglia.

What are medical services in Puglia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Puglia, they replied:

"Puglia offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The region is home to a number of highly-regarded medical facilities, such as the University Hospital of Bari and the University Hospital of Foggia. These hospitals provide a range of services, from general medical care to specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and medical centers throughout the region, offering a variety of services, including general practice, dentistry, and optometry. In addition, Puglia is home to a number of specialized medical centers, such as the National Institute for Cancer Research and the National Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases. These centers provide advanced treatments and research for a variety of medical conditions," said one expat.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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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