Digital Nomad Life in Milan, Italy
Summary: Digital nomads like living in Milan, Italy because it is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural heritage. It is also a great place to work remotely, with plenty of cafes, co-working spaces, and other amenities. The best neighborhood to live in is Navigli, which is known for its canals, restaurants, and nightlife. The approximate population of Milan, Italy is 1.3 million. The weather in Milan, Italy is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (2-24 Celsius). The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Milan is estimated to be around $1,500-$2,000 USD. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Milan is approximately $1,000-$1,500 USD per month.
How do I meet people in Milan?
When we asked people living in Milan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"The Benvenuto Club, Professional Women's Association, Democrats Abroad, American Business Group and many other organizations as well as activities created for the expat community listed in EasyMilano, a bi-weekly free publication for the English speaking community here," remarked one member in Milan.
What is life like in Milan?
When we asked people living in Milan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Living in Milan as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is known for its vibrant culture, fashion, and cuisine, and offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, from its world-class museums and galleries to its bustling nightlife. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. Milan is also well-connected to the rest of Europe, making it easy to explore other cities and countries. With its diverse culture, excellent food, and vibrant atmosphere, Milan is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one person living in Milan, Italy.
"Life as an expat in Milan is vibrant and dynamic, characterized by a blend of work and leisure. The city offers numerous cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and historical landmarks, alongside a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and restaurants," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Where should I live in Milan?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Milan can be done through various methods, including real estate agencies, online platforms like Immobiliare.it and Idealista, and social media groups dedicated to housing. It's common to use a real estate agent to navigate the competitive market and handle legal aspects," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"Finding a suitable place to live in Milan can be a daunting task, but the following tips should help you in your search: -Research online for rental listings in Milan: there are plenty of websites and online databases with a large selection of listings in various neighbourhoods. Short-term rentals might also be available. -Visit the neighbourhood you are interested in living in: this is a great way to get an idea of the local amenities, services and activities on offer, as well as to get a better sense of the atmosphere of the area. -Visit a few properties: it is important to make sure the home meets your requirements before you sign a contract. -Check the lease agreement carefully: check the term of the contract and make sure you understand all the conditions. -Be prepared to act quickly: the demand for rental properties in Milan is high and a good property won’t be available for long," explained one expat living in Milan, Italy.
What do I need to know before moving to Milan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Milan, they said:
"Before retiring in Milan, it's crucial to understand the cost of living, which is higher than in many other Italian cities, particularly for housing and healthcare. Ensure you have adequate financial resources or pension to cover these costs. Also, try visiting the city beforehand to explore neighborhoods and amenities," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Milan?
"Expatriates in Milan appreciate the combination of traditional Italian culture and modern amenities. They enjoy the numerous historical sites throughout the city, such as the Duomo di Milano and Castello Sforzesco. Milan's many restaurants and cafes provide an abundance of authentic Italian cuisine and a great place to socialize. The city is also apart of the fashion capital of the world and features world-famous designers. Expats in Milan also enjoy the vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, clubs, and music venues. The city has something to offer everyone, from shopping to outdoor activities, so there is truly something for everyone," said one person in Milan.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Milan?
"Expats typically find adjusting to a new culture to be the most challenging. Language barriers and adapting to unfamiliar cultural norms can be difficult to overcome. Finding or maintaining a job in a different country can sometimes be complicated due to differences in laws or regulations. Expats can also find it difficult to make new friends and build a support network. Isolation, homesickness, and feeling disconnected from family and friends can also be difficult for expats to deal with. Finally, physical and psychological health concerns can be more difficult to address in a foreign country," said one person in Milan.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Milan for a while?
"If you will be in Milan for an extended period, you will need to get a long-term Italian residence permit. This permit usually requires a valid passport, a non-Italian residence permit if you are not of European origin, evidence of the intended purpose of your stay and proof of financial means. Additionally, if you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), you will also need a visa in order to enter Italy," said one expat in Milan.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Milan?
We asked people in Milan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Milan, the most important thing to remember is to be respectful and polite. It is important to greet people warmly upon meeting them and show them respect; avoid offensive language, rude or brusque behaviour, and interrupting others. In spite of the modern, fast-paced atmosphere of Milan, it is important to be aware of and adhere to the city's strict dress code. Milanese tend to dress more formally than elsewhere in Italy so it is best to opt for conservative clothing when out in public. Also, when visiting churches, it is important to dress appropriately, regardless of gender and to observe any signage indicating different dress codes. Lastly, do not be offended if Italians stick to their own cliques, as it is usually seen as a form of politeness and respect to their own. While engaging in conversations with Milanese, avoid talking too loud as it is seen as an impolite gesture," said one person in Milan.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are healthcare services like in Milan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Milan, they replied:
"Milan 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, heart disease, and neurological disorders. Additionally, Milan is home to a number of pharmacies, laboratories, and other medical facilities that provide a range of services, including diagnostic testing, vaccinations, and medical advice. Milan also has a number of specialized centers for the elderly, disabled, and those with chronic illnesses," said one member in Milan.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What are the pros and cons of living in Milan?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Milan often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, and convenient public transportation. They also enjoy the city's many parks and green spaces, as well as its proximity to other major cities in Europe. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in Milan to be quite high, and the city can be quite crowded and noisy. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who don't speak Italian," explained one person living in Milan, Italy.
"People often like Milan for its dynamic lifestyle, rich cultural scene, and status as a fashion and design capital. The city's efficient public transportation, high-quality healthcare, and educational institutions are also appreciated. On the downside, the high cost of living, particularly for housing, can be a significant drawback, and some may find the city's fast-paced, work-oriented environment less appealing compared to the more relaxed lifestyle in other parts of Italy," wrote Brian Viola from Italian For A While.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
I am a language immersion traveler—after a Gap Year in Australia, I began working to encourage this experience in my own country: Italy!
Click connect to have our partner, Brian, contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
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.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote
Learn about the Digital Nomad Visa for Italy and what is involved in obtaining one. This is one of the most important aspects of moving to Italy as a digital nomad.
Italy Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Italy on our Italy forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Italy by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Italy.
Digital Nomads in Italy offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Italy.