England vs Italy – Comparison for Expats
*Updated June 2025
Deciding between England and Italy for your next home in 2025? Both countries share a rich European heritage but offer distinct cultures, lifestyles, and opportunities. SDC International Shipping presents an updated comparison to help you choose, covering cost of living, language, diversity, climate, and more. Whether you’re an expat, student, or retiree, this guide provides insights to make an informed decision, with tips for a seamless relocation.
England vs Italy in 2025: An Overview
England, part of the UK, is a global hub with a population of 57 million in 2024, known for its economic strength and multiculturalism. Office for National Statistics Italy, with 58.8 million residents, blends historic charm with a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. ISTAT Both nations attract expats, but differences in cost, culture, and infrastructure impact your choice. This comparison highlights key factors for 2025.
How Does Living in England Compare to Living in Italy?
Cost of Living and Housing
England: Housing costs in England remain high in 2025, with the average home price at £305,000, up 13% since 2022, per Halifax. Halifax London is the priciest, with three-bedroom homes exceeding £600,000. Renting is common, with a one-bedroom apartment in London costing £1,800-£2,500 monthly, while Manchester averages £900-£1,200. Rightmove Monthly living costs (excluding rent) for a single person are £800-£1,000, per Numbeo. Numbeo
Italy: Italy’s housing market varies by region. In Milan and Rome, three-bedroom apartments cost €450,000-€700,000, with central Venice reaching €10,000/m². Smaller cities like Bologna average €2,000-€4,000/m². Renting a one-bedroom in Rome or Milan costs €900-€1,400 monthly, while Florence is €700-€1,000. Monthly living costs (excluding rent) are €700-€900. Italy is generally 15% cheaper than England for everyday expenses, but urban housing rivals England’s costs.
Language Considerations
England: As an English-speaking country, England poses no language barriers for native or fluent English speakers. This simplifies job searches, socializing, and bureaucracy, making it ideal for Americans or other anglophones.
Italy: Italian is the primary language, with English widely spoken in cities like Milan, Rome, and Florence, especially among younger professionals (60% of 18-34-year-olds speak basic English, per Eurostat). Eurostat Rural areas, however, may present language challenges, as older residents often speak only Italian. Learning basic Italian (e.g., via Duolingo) enhances integration, especially for government services or small-town living.
Cultural Diversity
England: England’s multiculturalism is evident in cities like London, where 40% of residents are foreign-born. ONS Communities from India, Poland, and Nigeria thrive, creating vibrant neighborhoods like Southall or Brixton. International students (700,000 in 2024) find support in diverse university towns like Manchester.
Italy: Italy hosts 5.3 million immigrants (9% of the population), ranking third in the EU. ISTAT Romanians (1.2 million), Albanians, and Moroccans dominate, primarily in northern cities like Milan. Southern Italy is less diverse, with 25% of immigrants in regions like Sicily. Expat communities (e.g., Americans in Tuscany) are growing, offering support networks.
Social Behavior and Culture
England: English culture values politeness and privacy, which can feel reserved to newcomers. Londoners may avoid casual chats on public transport, focusing on books or phones, but warmth emerges in social settings like pubs. UK Government Northern cities like Liverpool are known for friendlier interactions. Building friendships takes time, but is rewarding.
Italy: Italians are generally outgoing, with a culture of warmth and small talk. Conversations in cafés or markets often cover family or local events, easing social bonds. However, business interactions may start with pleasantries before addressing key issues. Southern Italians (e.g., in Naples) are particularly expressive, while northerners may be more reserved but still welcoming.
Climate Comparison
England: England’s climate is temperate, with mild winters (2°C-8°C) and cool summers (15°C-25°C). Rainfall is frequent (800-1,200mm annually), especially in Manchester, but extreme weather is rare. Met Office. The unpredictability requires adaptable wardrobes.
Italy: Italy’s Mediterranean climate varies regionally. Southern areas like Sicily enjoy hot, dry summers (25°C-35°C) and mild winters (8°C-15°C). Northern regions like Milan see colder winters (0°C-5°C) and humid summers. Rainfall (500-1,000mm) peaks in autumn. Meteo.it Italy offers more sunshine, ideal for outdoor lifestyles.
Food and Cuisine
England: English cuisine has evolved, blending traditional dishes like fish and chips or Sunday roasts with global influences (e.g., curry from Indian communities). London’s food scene is world-class, with 70+ Michelin-starred restaurants in 2024. Michelin Guide A full English breakfast (sausages, eggs, beans) remains iconic, though modern diets emphasize diversity.
Italy: Italian cuisine is globally celebrated, with pasta, pizza, and risotto as staples. Regional specialties (e.g., Liguria’s pesto, Naples’ pizza) showcase fresh ingredients like olive oil and tomatoes. Italy’s 580 traditional food products (e.g., Parmigiano-Reggiano) highlight culinary heritage. Italia.it Dining is a social ritual, often lasting hours.
Job Markets in England and Italy
England: With a 4.2% unemployment rate in 2024, England offers robust opportunities in finance, tech, and healthcare. ONS London’s tech sector employs 300,000, with software engineers earning £50,000-£80,000. Indeed UK English fluency gives Americans an edge, though visa requirements (e.g., Skilled Worker Visa) apply.
Italy: Italy’s unemployment rate is 6.8% in 2024, with demand in tourism, fashion, and engineering. ISTAT Milan’s finance and fashion sectors pay €35,000-€60,000 for mid-level roles. English-speaking jobs in tourism (e.g., Florence) are common, but Italian proficiency boosts prospects. The EU Blue Card supports skilled workers.
Visa Requirements for Expats
England: Americans need a visa to live/work in England, such as the Skilled Worker Visa (£610-£1,408 fee, job offer required) or Student Visa (£363). Processing takes 3-8 weeks. UK Government Post-Brexit, EU-style permits don’t apply.
Italy: Non-EU citizens like Americans require visas, such as the Elective Residence Visa for retirees (€116) or Work Visa (job offer needed). The EU Blue Card (€100, for salaries above €25,000) suits professionals. Processing takes 2-6 months. Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Education and Healthcare
England: Public schools are free for residents, with top universities like Oxford attracting 25,000 international students. UCAS The NHS provides free healthcare, though wait times for non-emergencies can reach 12 weeks. Private insurance (£50-£100/month) speeds access.
Italy: Public schools are free, with English-language options in cities (e.g., Milan International School, €10,000/year). Universities like Sapienza are affordable (€1,000/year). Italy’s SSN offers free/low-cost healthcare, but wait times are similar to England. Private plans (€40-€80/month) are common among expats.
Relocate to England or Italy with SDC
Whether you choose England’s dynamic cities or Italy’s cultural charm, SDC International Shipping ensures a hassle-free move. Our services cover household goods, vehicles, and specialty items like artwork, with competitive pricing and global expertise. Contact SDC today for a free quote and start your European adventure in 2025.
