Comprehensive Guide for Expats Moving to Milan: Living and Working in Italy

Comprehensive Guide for Expats Moving to Milan: Living and Working in Italy

By Michael Thornton

March 4, 2025 at 09:36 PM

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

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

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

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.

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Aerial view of Turin with Alpine view

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