Why Moving to Sicily, Italy is a Smart Choice
So you know why I want to move part time to Italy, but where? I have always loved Florence and dreamed of that area. But I also need to think long term and affordability in my retirement. Cost of living, comfortable climate, food and housing are all factors that brought me to Sicily.
Top Reasons I picked Sicily
Cost of LivingCompared to other regions, Sicily is very affordable. I can afford a larger home in Sicily. Family will be visiting often so space is important. Lower cost of living allows me to save money for other travel around Europe too.With the median monthly mortgage alone in California being $2,357 you can see from the chart below the substantial difference.
To see Cost of living and prices for groceries, transportation, etc. click here.ClimateSicily has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. With average temperatures ranging from 60-70°F (15-20°C) in the winter to 75-85°F (25-30°C) in the summer, it is the ideal location for spending time outdoors and enjoying day trips.Beautiful SceneryAnother advantage of living in Sicily is the beautiful natural scenery. From pristine beaches to rolling hills and towering mountains, Sicily has something for everyone. There is even snow skiing! Being spoiled living in California with access to mountains, beaches and everything in between, this is a huge plus.Cultural DiversitySicily has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from various civilizations, including the Greeks, Arabs, Normans, and more. This makes the region a melting pot of different cultures. Whether it's visiting historic sites, trying local cuisine, or exploring the local art and music scene, there is so much to discover in Sicily.Food and WineThe local cuisine is another big draw. With the melting pot of cultures comes unique recipes with traditional Italian food. Fresh ingredients, fresh seafood, pizza, pasta…give me it all! All this and wine is cheaper than soda!
Large Cities Both Palermo and Catania have international airports. They are on opposite sides of the island for easy access to whatever city I chose to live in. Syracuse, Taormina, Marsala and Agrigento are all large cities as well for fun and shopping for furnishings.Finally, the locals in Sicily are known for being warm and welcoming. There are many expats who have relocated there which makes it easy to make new friends and feel right at home. Reviewing Facebook groups for expats living in Sicily reinforced there is a strong sense of community and a welcoming attitude.Now it is time to find the city!