
Comprehensive Guide for Expats Moving to Milan: Living and Working in Italy
Milan stands as Italy's financial and fashion capital, offering expats a unique blend of traditional Italian culture and modern European lifestyle. This comprehensive guide covers essential aspects of living in Milan as an expatriate.

Hand holding Italian flag
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
- Navigli: Historic canal district with vibrant nightlife and excellent public transport
- Tortona: Creative hub known for Fashion Week events and art galleries
- Corso Sempione/Zona Fiera: Elegant residential area near Parco Sempione and CityLife
- Isola: Modern district featuring the Vertical Forest and Piazza Gae Aulenti
- Porta Nuova/Porta Garibaldi: Business district popular with young professionals
- Porta Romana: Safe residential area with great restaurants and cultural attractions
- Città Studi/Lambrate: Student-friendly area near Polytechnic University

Wise Conversion Logo without background
Education and Universities
Milan offers world-class educational institutions:
- Politecnico di Milano: Leading technical university
- University of Milan: Prestigious public university
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University: Specialized in medicine and research
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart: Largest Catholic university in Europe
- University of Milan-Bicocca: Modern campus with diverse programs
- Luigi Bocconi University: Renowned for economics and business
- NABA: Excellence in arts and design
- SDA Bocconi: Top-tier management school
Cultural Insights
Milan differs from typical Italian cities in several ways:
- Business-oriented culture with strong work ethic
- Merit-based professional environment
- International atmosphere
- Inclusive and diverse community
- Rich cultural traditions
Healthcare and Transportation
The city provides:
- High-quality healthcare system
- Efficient public transportation network
- Easy access to international travel
- Well-connected metro system
Working and Living
Key considerations:
- Strong job market in finance, fashion, and tech
- Higher cost of living compared to other Italian cities
- International community support
- Required Italian language skills vary by industry
- EU residence permits generally allow work rights

Credit card against gray background
This guide provides essential information for expats considering Milan as their new home. The city offers a unique combination of career opportunities, cultural experiences, and quality of life that attracts professionals from around the world.
Images showing related destinations:

Coastal town with mountains in the background

Aerial view of Turin with Alpine view

The Roman Colosseum at sunset

Coastal town with mountains in the background

Aerial view of Turin with Alpine view

Ancient Roman architecture in Rome
Related Articles

Complete Guide: Living as an Expat in Hamburg, Germany
