Abruzzo

If value for money were the only measure, Abruzzo would top almost every expat list going. It does not — because not enough people are talking about it yet. That, depending on your outlook, is either a problem or the whole point.

Abruzzo occupies a dramatic stretch of central Italy, running from a long Adriatic coastline in the east to some of the highest peaks in the Apennines in the west. One third of the region is protected national park — the Gran Sasso e Monti della Laga, the Maiella, and the historic Pescasseroli-centred Parco Nazionale d’Abruzzo between them covering a landscape of wolves, bears, and extraordinary mountain scenery that most of Europe has simply forgotten exists.

The regional capital L’Aquila is a city in genuine recovery — rebuilt and re-energised following the 2009 earthquake, with a resilient university community, a striking historic centre, and property prices that remain among the lowest of any regional capital in Italy. On the coast, Pescara is the liveliest and most practical base, with an airport, a decent food scene, and sandy beaches that stretch in both directions. Inland, the hill towns of Lanciano, Vasto, and Sulmona — the latter famous for its confetti sweets and extraordinary mountain setting — offer the kind of authentic, unhurried Italian life that other regions charge a premium for.

Abruzzo cost of living is consistently among the lowest in Italy. Most expats find a comfortable monthly budget of €1,100 to €1,700 more than sufficient, with rural property prices that still regularly surprise even seasoned Italy-watchers.

Moving to Abruzzo is for expats who want the real thing — uncrowded, unpolished, and quietly magnificent.