Northern Italy or southern Italy? How to find the perfect location in Italy

Italy is a country of contrasts – and that is precisely what makes it so magical. Between the glaciers of the Alps and the lemon groves of Sicily lie not only 1,200 kilometres, but also two different ways of life. Anyone considering living in Italy, buying property or making a long-term investment will sooner or later be faced with a key question: northern Italy or southern Italy?

Both regions have their own magic – and tell their own story of climate, culture, people and opportunities. This article will help you understand the differences – and find the place that really suits you.

Climate and landscape – from alpine winds to the glamour of the sea

In Italy, the climate shapes the rhythm of life. In the north, you can expect distinct seasons: cold winters, warm summers, foggy mornings over the lakes. The south, on the other hand, promises plenty of sunshine: long summers, mild winters, little rain.

If you long for fresh mountain air and alpine expanses, the north is the place for you. If you love light, warmth and the sea, you will fall in love with the south.

Climate comparison: between Alpine air and Mediterranean breezes

Italy’s climate is as diverse as its landscapes – and has a decisive influence on everyday life. In Lombardy, cold winters (Ø 4°C) and warm summers (Ø 27°C) ensure clear seasons, framed by Alpine and lake landscapes. Emilia-Romagna offers a pleasant continental climate, with mild winters (6°C) and warm summers (29°C) – ideal for those seeking balance. Further south, it gets significantly hotter: Puglia has dry, sunny conditions, with temperatures reaching 33°C in summer and 10°C in winter. The Mediterranean climate is even more intense in Sicily, where the thermometer climbs to an average of 34°C in summer, accompanied by warm winds from North Africa. Those who love heat will find what they are looking for in the south, while those who prefer cooler temperatures will find them in the north.

Mentality and Lifestyle – Structure meets spontaneity

If you ask Italians about the differences between north and south, you will often be met with a smile – and a little story. Because, as similar as they are, they live very differently. In the north, efficiency, punctuality, and predictability reign supreme. Appointments are binding, bureaucracy works (mostly!), and the cityscape is well maintained. Everyday life follows a clear rhythm. In the south, on the other hand, life is improvisation. Appointments are guidelines, decisions are often made in conversation – over an espresso in the sun or a chance meeting in the piazza. Both lifestyles have their charms: structure and tranquillity in the north, warmth and joie de vivre in the south.

“In the north, you plan; in the south, you live.”

Economy and opportunities – engine meets new beginnings

Northern Italy is the economic backbone of the country. Regions such as Lombardy, Veneto, and Emilia-Romagna are industrial locations with international connections. Innovation, exports, strong infrastructure. The south lags economically – but the picture is changing. Tourism, agriculture, renewable energies and digital projects are promoting new growth. EU subsidies are revitalising rural regions and supporting start-ups.

Income and cost of living compared: what remains at the end of the month

The economic differences between northern and southern Italy are clearly reflected in income and cost of living. In Lombardy, one of the wealthiest regions in the country, the average monthly income is €2,400, but the cost-of-living index is high, at 115. In Emilia-Romagna, too, people earn a good €2,200, with slightly lower expenses (index: 110).

The situation is different in the South: in Apulia, the average income is €1,500, but the cost of living is significantly lower (index 80). In Sicily, expenses are even lower (index 75), with an average wage of €1,450.

The bottom line is that people living in the south often have lower incomes, but also significantly lower living costs, which can be particularly attractive for the self-employed, pensioners, and remote workers.

Those who work in companies or management will find more opportunities in the north. Those who work remotely or are looking for self-employment will benefit from lower living costs and new opportunities in the south.

Real estate – between stability and potential:

Italy’s real estate market reflects regional contrasts. In the north, prices are stable and demand is constant. Regions such as Lombardy, South Tyrol, and Lake Como are considered safe investments.

In the south, on the other hand, entry-level prices are significantly lower. In Apulia, Calabria and Sicily, in particular, historic houses, city palazzi in need of renovation and trulli with sea views await – often at prices that would be unthinkable in the north.

Real estate prices briefly: stability in the north, potential in the south

Real estate prices in Italy vary greatly from region to region – and offer different opportunities depending on your objectives. In Lombardy, prices per square metre will be around €3,500 in 2025. Demand is high, and prices are rising steadily – not least because of the excellent infrastructure. Emilia-Romagna is also considered a reliable market, at €2,600 per square metre, especially for long-term investments.

The picture is quite different in the south: in Apulia, properties are still significantly cheaper, averaging €1,600 per square metre. Prices are rising slightly, mainly thanks to growing tourism. Sicily is the cheapest market at €1,300/m², but at the same time, one with high development potential – ideal for those who want to get in early.

Tip: If you are looking for value, stability and resale potential, you will find it in the north. If you are looking for returns or a project with soul, the south is the right place for you.

Infrastructure and Mobility – Smooth or Charming

The north impresses with punctuality, expansion and efficiency: express trains, well-maintained motorways, international airports. Cities such as Bologna and Verona are logistical hubs.

In the south, things are much more leisurely: potholes, delayed buses, regional trains with character. But a lot is happening here too – especially thanks to EU-funded infrastructure projects.

Internet is now available almost everywhere – even remote villages in Apulia or Sicily offer solid conditions for remote work.

Infrastructure and internet: well, connected – with regional differences

Digital and transport infrastructure play an important role in choosing a location – especially for those who work remotely or travel a lot. In Lombardy, broadband coverage is almost universal, at 98%, and there is an excellent high-speed rail network. Airports are usually within 1–2 hours’ reach.

Tuscany is also well connected: 94% internet coverage, short distances to airports, and a central location make it particularly attractive for expats and commuters. In the south, regions such as Puglia are catching up – with 91% internet coverage and airports within easy reach, the region benefits from targeted EU funding. In Sicily, coverage is 89% – solid, but due to the island’s isolation, access to international connections is somewhat less flexible.

Cuisine and Culture – Two flavours of a country

In Italy, cuisine is more than just food – it is identity. And it reflects the climate, mentality and history. In the north, butter, polenta, risotto, truffles and elegant red wines dominate the menu. Refined, aromatic, finely balanced. In the south, sunshine and freshness prevail olive oil, tomatoes, pasta, fish, herbs – accompanied by a glass of Primitivo or a full-bodied Nero d’Avola.

You can taste the differences – and you can feel them. The north is thoughtful, the south spirited.

Attitude to life and everyday life – rhythm and resonance

In the North, life has structure. People work with focus, enjoy life in a targeted manner, and love style, design, and efficiency. The weekend is for relaxation; everyday life is functional.

In the South, on the other hand, work and life often merge. People laugh, improvise, celebrate – and sometimes postpone things. Neighbours are friends, the piazza is the living room.

Everyday tip: If you are looking for peace, order and modern structures, you will be happy in the north. If you love closeness, sunshine and spontaneity, you will feel at home in the south.

Cost of living – what your euro can buy

The cost of everyday life varies greatly. In the north, it is at Central European levels. In the south, it is often 30–40% cheaper – with a comparable quality of life.

Cost of living comparison: Expensive north, cheaper south

A look at the cost of living shows that there are not only geographical differences between northern and southern Italy, but also financial ones. In northern Italy, expenditure in many areas is above the EU average – especially for rent (index: 120), restaurants (115) and leisure activities (120). Food (110) and transport (105) are also noticeably more expensive.

In southern Italy, on the other hand, the cost of living is significantly lower. Rents are only around 70% of the EU average, and food (85), leisure activities (85), and eating out (80) are also considerably cheaper. Even public transport is more affordable, with an index of 90.

In Milan, dinner can easily cost €40, while in Puglia, you can get a three-course meal for €20 – sunset included.

Conclusion: North or south – or both

Northern Italy or Southern Italy? Ultimately, it is not a question of right or wrong – but of personality. The north stands for stability, efficiency, and reliable structures. The south offers emotion, joie de vivre, and space for new paths. For investors, this means that the north offers secure investments, while the south offers greater potential. For people looking for a new rhythm of life, the north offers comfort, while the south offers resonance.

And if you can’t decide? Then you should experience both – because that’s the wonder of Italy: it’s never either/or. It’s always a little bit more.