Moving to Florence: a guide for expats and professionals

Moving to a new city is about much more than simply finding a place to live. It means building new routines, getting to know a different environment and adapting to a new way of life. Florence has become one of the most popular destinations for international professionals, remote workers, students and families because it offers a rare balance between quality of life, efficient services and an extraordinary cultural heritage.

Although Florence is recognised around the world, it has managed to preserve the welcoming atmosphere of a human-sized city. Distances are short, many daily activities can be done on foot and every neighbourhood has its own distinctive character. This combination of international appeal and everyday livability encourages thousands of people each year to choose Florence as their new home, whether for a few months or for a long-term relocation.

Why choose Florence to live and work

In recent years Florence has become increasingly attractive to remote workers, entrepreneurs and professionals with international careers. One of its greatest advantages is the opportunity to combine professional growth with a slower and more balanced lifestyle.

The city is easy to navigate without a car, offers excellent high-speed rail connections and allows residents to reach Rome, Milan, Bologna and Venice within just a few hours. Florence Airport also makes both domestic and international travel convenient for those who regularly travel for business.

Living in Florence means enjoying a daily routine that is very different from life in a large metropolis. A lunch break in a historic square, an evening walk along the Arno or a weekend exploring the Tuscan countryside quickly become part of everyday life, helping create a healthier balance between work and personal time.

Choosing the right neighbourhood

One of the most important decisions before relocating is choosing where to live. Although Florence is relatively compact, every neighbourhood offers a different atmosphere and lifestyle.

The historic centre is ideal for anyone who wants to experience Florence at its fullest. Living within walking distance of museums, restaurants, shops and the city's iconic landmarks makes everyday life both practical and enjoyable. Many professionals arriving in Florence for the first time choose to stay in fully furnished apartments in the historic centre, allowing them to settle in comfortably before deciding on a long-term solution.

Those looking for a more authentic atmosphere often prefer Oltrarno and Santo Spirito. This part of Florence is known for its artisan workshops, independent cafés, wine bars and creative community, making it especially attractive to freelancers, digital professionals and long-term residents.

Santa Croce and Sant'Ambrogio offer an excellent balance between central location and local life. Traditional markets, independent businesses and lively neighbourhood streets create an environment where newcomers can easily experience Florence beyond its main tourist attractions.

Residential areas just outside the historic centre are often chosen by families and professionals looking for larger apartments, quieter surroundings and more green spaces while remaining well connected to the city centre through the tramway and public transport network.

The cost of living in Florence

Compared with many major international cities, Florence still offers an attractive balance between living costs and quality of life. Expenses naturally depend on lifestyle and location, but housing, utilities, transport, groceries and leisure activities represent the main monthly costs.

Accommodation is usually the largest expense. For this reason, many expats begin by choosing fully furnished apartments with utilities already activated and essential services included. This approach avoids unnecessary bureaucracy during the first weeks after arrival and allows newcomers to focus on settling into their new environment.

Finding accommodation more easily

Searching for accommodation is often one of the most challenging parts of an international move. Traditional rental agreements may require extensive documentation, financial guarantees and long-term commitments that are not always practical for people relocating from abroad.

Many international professionals therefore choose flexible furnished apartments during their first months in Florence. These properties usually include a fully equipped kitchen, internet connection and local assistance, making the transition significantly easier. They also provide enough time to explore the city and identify the neighbourhood that best suits future long-term plans.

Working remotely from Florence

Florence has become increasingly popular among remote workers, consultants and digital professionals. Reliable internet connections, a growing international community and several coworking spaces make it an excellent destination for people who can work from anywhere.

Perhaps the greatest advantage is the lifestyle itself. Instead of spending hours commuting, residents can organise their day more efficiently, enjoying a walk along the Arno, a break in a historic café or lunch in one of the city's beautiful squares between meetings.

The city's strategic location also makes business travel simple. High-speed trains connect Florence with many of Italy's largest cities, allowing professionals to attend meetings while continuing to enjoy Florence as their home base.

Practical aspects to organise

Once you arrive, it is worth dedicating the first few days to organising the main administrative tasks. Depending on your nationality, these may include obtaining an Italian tax code, opening a local bank account and purchasing an Italian SIM card.

Completing these practical steps early helps simplify everyday life and allows you to settle into your new routine much more quickly. Having a fully equipped apartment from day one also removes many of the challenges associated with buying furniture or arranging utility contracts immediately after moving.

Getting around the city

One of Florence's greatest strengths is that many daily activities can be completed without owning a car. Residents living in the historic centre or nearby neighbourhoods often walk to work, shops and restaurants.

For longer journeys, Florence offers an efficient public transport system including the tramway, city buses, regional trains and cycling routes. The airport is also easily accessible by public transport, making both business and leisure travel straightforward.

Many expats quickly discover that owning a car is unnecessary. Walking or cycling not only reduces travel time but also allows residents to experience the city at a slower and more enjoyable pace.

A city that truly feels like home

Florence continues to attract professionals, international students, families and remote workers because it offers something increasingly difficult to find: an outstanding quality of life combined with an international environment, without the pressure and complexity of a large metropolitan city.

It is a place where people can build a career, work remotely, raise a family or simply enjoy an international experience immersed in Italian culture. The opportunity to balance work with leisure, explore Tuscany during weekends and live every day surrounded by extraordinary history and architecture creates a lifestyle that many people quickly come to appreciate.

For anyone planning a medium-term stay, choosing a fully furnished apartment can make the transition considerably easier. Having a comfortable home in one of Florence's most desirable neighbourhoods allows newcomers to focus on discovering the city instead of dealing with unnecessary practical concerns.

Moving to Florence is much more than changing your address. It is the opportunity to embrace a different way of living, where culture, work and everyday life come together to create an experience that many people eventually choose to call home.