Florence — or Firenze as the locals call it — is a city that has inspired artists, thinkers, and dreamers for centuries. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence offers an irresistible mix of history, culture, and elegance. With a population of just under 400,000, it’s smaller and more intimate than Rome, yet every corner bursts with architectural beauty, art, and Italian charm.

For those considering living in Florence as an expat, the city offers a unique lifestyle that blends old-world sophistication with a relaxed pace. The compact city center is walkable, filled with world-famous museums, artisan shops, open-air markets, and cafés that spill out onto cobblestone streets. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, student, or entrepreneur, Florence offers one of the most fulfilling living experiences in Italy.

If you’re planning to relocate, this guide explores the best areas to live in Florence, including which neighborhoods suit each person best, local amenities, housing styles, safety, and cost of living.

Florence is one of Italy’s most beautiful and livable cities, drawing expats from all over the world. The city’s size makes it easy to navigate without a car, and its excellent transport links connect you to the rest of Tuscany and major cities like Rome, Bologna, and Milan.

Florence’s appeal lies in its blend of art, food, and community. You’ll find daily markets offering local produce, affordable yet delicious trattorias, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to build connections. The city’s slower rhythm, sunny climate, and strong cultural identity make it a top choice for retirees seeking a peaceful life, remote workers seeking inspiration, and families seeking a safe, high-quality environment.

If you’re considering moving to Florence, Italy, it’s worth understanding the city’s neighborhoods, as each has a distinct character. From the historical charm of the city center to the tranquil hills of Fiesole, Florence offers something for everyone.

The Centro Storico, Florence’s historic center, is one of the most enchanting places to live in Italy. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Uffizi Gallery — landmarks that define Florence’s identity.

Living here means being surrounded by art and architecture at every turn. You can walk to most places, enjoy daily markets like Mercato Centrale, and find a mix of elegant apartments, small studios, and renovated historic homes.

Centro Storico is ideal for professionals, couples, and retirees who value being in the middle of everything. However, rent prices are higher, and the area can be crowded, particularly in tourist season. Still, for those who want to experience the true spirit of Florence, there’s nothing like living in its ancient core.

This is one of the best neighborhoods in Florence for those who want history, walkability, and culture — though it’s wise to look for quieter side streets if you prefer peace.

Across the Arno River lies Oltrarno, one of the most beloved areas for expats and locals alike. Known for its bohemian atmosphere, artisan workshops, and beautiful piazzas, Oltrarno feels like the soul of old Florence.

The area includes Santo Spirito and San Frediano, two of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Florence. Santo Spirito is filled with cafés, wine bars, and markets, while San Frediano has been named one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world by Lonely Planet for its mix of creativity and authenticity.

Living in Oltrarno appeals to artists, students, and digital nomads who want to be close to the center without being surrounded by tourists. Apartments here are full of character — think wooden beams, terracotta floors, and views of the river or hills.

This neighborhood offers a taste of authentic Florentine life, making it one of the best areas to live in Florence, Italy, if you want a lively, local community.

Located just east of the Duomo, Santa Croce is another popular area for expats in Florence. It’s named after the stunning Basilica di Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried. The neighborhood combines artistic history with modern conveniences, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Santa Croce is ideal for young professionals and culture lovers who want to be in the city center but enjoy a slightly quieter setting than the Duomo area. Apartments tend to be renovated historical homes with high ceilings and large windows.

While rent prices are on the higher side, the lifestyle benefits are undeniable — you can walk everywhere, and the vibrant nightlife and cultural calendar make this one of the most exciting neighborhoods in Florence.

Nestled at the base of Piazzale Michelangelo, San Niccolò offers stunning views of Florence and a charming, village-like feel. It’s one of the most romantic areas in the city, with narrow stone streets, ivy-covered walls, and art studios tucked away behind wooden doors.

San Niccolò is popular among couples, artists, and retirees who appreciate tranquility, beauty, and proximity to nature. The area is within walking distance of central Florence but feels more peaceful and refined.

Apartments here are often historic and unique, sometimes featuring small gardens or terraces overlooking the city. This is one of the safest areas in Florence and ideal for those who want a slower, more authentic pace of life while still being near the city’s main attractions.

If you’re looking for a more residential and affordable neighborhood, Campo di Marte is an excellent choice. Located northeast of the city center, it’s home to Florence’s main stadium and several parks.

Campo di Marte is especially popular with families and long-term expats who want space, green areas, and good access to schools. The neighborhood offers modern apartments, local shops, and easy access to the city center via public transportation.

This area is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Florence for families, combining safety, value, and a strong local community. It’s also ideal if you want to experience everyday Italian life away from the tourist crowds.

For those who prefer a quieter suburban lifestyle, Gavinana and Galluzzo are two excellent options located just outside the city center. These neighborhoods offer larger apartments, lower rents, and easy access to nature, making them perfect for families, retirees, or remote workers who don’t need to be downtown every day.

Public transportation connects both areas well to the center, and you’ll find supermarkets, cafés, and schools nearby. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the pace of life is slower. Many expats say living in Florence’s suburbs allows them to enjoy all the benefits of the city without the noise and congestion.

If you dream of waking up to panoramic views of Florence’s skyline, Fiesole may be your perfect match. Located in the hills above the city, this elegant town offers cooler air, peace, and stunning scenery — all just a 15-minute bus ride from the center.

Fiesole is one of the most desirable areas near Florence for retirees, artists, and high-income professionals seeking luxury and serenity.

Villas and apartments here are spacious and often come with gardens or terraces.

While prices can be higher, the lifestyle is unmatched — you’ll enjoy tranquility, green surroundings, and one of the best views in Italy. Fiesole also has a strong international community and hosts cultural events throughout the year.

Absolutely. Florence consistently ranks among the best cities in Italy for expats thanks to its walkability, rich cultural life, and welcoming atmosphere. Compared to Milan or Rome, Florence offers a smaller, more manageable environment with excellent healthcare, public services, and safety.

Living in Florence as a foreigner means immersing yourself in the heart of Tuscany — enjoying fresh food, scenic countryside, and proximity to places like Siena, Lucca, and the Chianti wine region. It’s a city that allows you to slow down, savor life, and find daily inspiration in its beauty.

Many expats start with a temporary stay in Florence to explore neighborhoods before committing to a long-term lease. Rental contracts typically range from short-term furnished apartments to multi-year leases for residents.

When deciding where to live in Florence, consider your lifestyle needs:

• Walkability and transport: The city is compact, but some neighborhoods (such as Fiesole and Galluzzo) require bus travel.

• Budget: Rents in Centro Storico or Oltrarno can be higher, while areas like Campo di Marte offer better value.

• Noise and tourism: Central areas can be lively; residential zones are quieter.

• Community: Expats often choose areas like Oltrarno or Campo di Marte for their balance of local life and accessibility.

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Florence is more than just a city — it’s a living masterpiece. From the romantic streets of Oltrarno to the peaceful hills of Fiesole, there’s a neighborhood for every lifestyle and dream. Whether you crave the vibrancy of the historic center, the authenticity of local markets, or the tranquility of suburban hills, living in Florence, Italy, offers an unparalleled experience of art, culture, and community.

No matter which neighborhood you choose, Florence promises a life filled with beauty, inspiration, and that unmistakable Italian dolce vita.