Moving to Naples: Essential Guide for Expats in 2024

Moving to Naples: Essential Guide for Expats in 2024

By Michael Thornton

March 1, 2025 at 12:56 AM

Naples is a vibrant Italian city with a rich cultural heritage and growing expat community. Here's what you need to know about moving to Naples as an expatriate.

Hand holding Italian flag against sky

Hand holding Italian flag against sky

Rental Agreements in Naples

There are three main types of rental agreements:

  • Freely negotiated (4+4): Four-year contracts with negotiable prices, renewable for another four years
  • Regulated (3+2): Three-year contracts with association-set prices, extendable for two years
  • Short-term: Maximum 18-month contracts for temporary residents

Property Purchase Costs

  • Real estate agency commission: ~3%
  • Land registration tax: 2% (first home), 9% (second home)
  • Fixed mortgage tax: €50
  • Fixed stamp duty: €50
  • Notary fees: Variable

Best Neighborhoods for Expats

  • Chiaia: Upscale central area with waterfront access and premium amenities
  • Vomero: Family-friendly residential district with excellent services
  • Posillipo: Prestigious hill area with Gulf views
  • Fuorigrotta: Affordable, dynamic neighborhood popular with students

Education Options

  • University of Naples Federico II: Globally ranked, specializing in agriculture, architecture, and sciences
  • University Suor Orsola Benincasa: Focused on humanities and communications
  • University L'Orientale: Renowned for language and cultural studies
  • Parthenope University: Offers programs in economics, law, science, and engineering

Cultural Aspects

  • Food Culture: Famous for traditional dishes like pizza, babà, and pastiera
  • Coffee Tradition: Strong café culture including "caffè sospeso" (suspended coffee)
  • Local Language: Neapolitan dialect is widely used alongside Italian
  • Superstitions: Strong belief in traditional superstitions

Wise app circular logo with arrow

Wise app circular logo with arrow

Living Tips

  • Healthcare: Access to both public and private healthcare systems
  • Transportation: Extensive public transit network including metro, buses, and funiculars
  • Work Opportunities: Growing sectors include tourism, technology, and education
  • Cost of Living: Generally lower than other major Italian cities

Smartphone with credit card payment

Smartphone with credit card payment

While adjusting to life in Naples requires patience and cultural adaptation, the city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities that make it an attractive destination for expats.

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