If you’re still searching for the right region to buy property for you, then look into Abruzzo. In this article, we discuss the many benefits of this region, some of the best places, and the economic benefits that come from it.
Why move to Abruzzo?
Abruzzo’s location in southern/central Italy, bordering Lazio with nearby Rome, and the fact that it hasn’t been hit as hard with tourism as other areas of Italy make it an ideal place to consider for your future Italian property. The region is served by an international airport, and its location makes it a great place to access other parts of Italy for your exploring. From coastline to mountains and more, Abruzzo is a geographically rich area as well, and is home to a number of national parks and protected areas. This makes it the perfect place for those who would like to avoid the chaos of cities and instead relocate to a more tranquil, natural area with plenty of outdoor activities at your disposal.
Best places to live
Abruzzo is filled with many delightful villages with sweeping views of the countryside, ancient churches, and access to both natural wonders and cultural sites. One such is Castel del Monte, a medieval village located high up on a hillside and surrounded by mountains. The views here truly are breathtaking, and you’ll feel as if you stepped back in time wandering through the cobblestone streets. It is also situated within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park, which itself offers hiking trails, horseback riding, and more. 
For a larger town, look into L’Aquila, which also offers access to the Gran Sasso National Park. It hosts a university and so is livelier than other towns mentioned on this list, and also boasts theatre, music, and fine arts programs. You’ll also want to visit the 18th Church of Santa Maria del Suffragio, built in honor of the victims of the 1703 earthquake. It has exquisite Baroque detailing inside. You can also wander through the city, enjoying its elegant porticoes and stopping by to admire the spectacular and colorful Fontana Luminosa.
Pescara is another larger city, in fact the largest in Abruzzo. While walking along to admire the sea, be sure to look out for the trabocchi, old fishing structures unique to the area. You can also visit the Museo dell’Ottocento, home to a beautiful number of works from a private collection. There are a number of other museums and historical sites to visit in and around the area as well. The city also has an exciting main thoroughfare, Corso Umberto I, with plenty of shopping to explore in and around it.
Another place to look into is Roseto degli Abruzzi, situated off the Adriatic Sea and near the Borsacchio Nature Reserve. It’s a much smaller town, and becomes quite popular in the summertime. This would be one of the perfect places to relocate to if you’re looking for a beachside town. There’s more to see, though, including Villa Filiani, built in the 19th century for Giacinto Filiani. Today the villa is an ethnomusicological center, offering exhibits on Abruzzo culture and concerts. The town is only 40 km away from Pescara, making it the perfect place for those who would prefer small town living with close access to a larger city.
Flat tax rate for retirees
Abruzzo is one of the southern Italian regions that offers a 7% flat tax for foreign pensioners to relocate. The tax break only applies to certain smaller towns in these regions, and lasts for 9 years, but is still a great benefit to have to get your footing in the country on a more economical basis.
Eligible towns are those with fewer than 20,000 residents. To be eligible yourself, you must also be classified as a new resident, i.e. one who has not lived in Italy for the past 5 years. This includes Italian citizens who have been residing outside of the country for at least 5 years and registered with A.I.R.E. Your income must be from a pension outside of Italy, and your country must also have a tax agreement with Italy. Other foreign passive forms of income can also qualify. In order to be classified as a tax resident of Italy (which you must, to enjoy this benefit), you must reside there for more than 183 days a year.
There are other stipulations and circumstances involved in this offer, so be sure to speak with a qualified tax consultant (commercialista) if you are interested.
Overall cost of living
Compared to other parts of Italy, particularly the north, Abruzzo is a very affordable region, making it attractive for those who want the history and beauty of Italy without the high prices you’ll find in major cities. You can find country homes in the €100,000s or less. Rent can be as cheap as €300 a month, but €600 to €800 is a closer average, with even higher prices in places like Pescara and Roseto. Monthly utility bills are usually around €200.
These are all general averages, of course, and will be affected by the kind of property you’re looking into (house vs. apartment) and where you live (a city like Pescara or smaller town).
Conclusion
Abruzzo is a well-located central-southern region with outstanding natural beauty and protected wildlife reserves, a stunning coastline, and charming towns to draw you in. If you are interested in looking at property in this area, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@italianrealestatelawyers.com.
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