Alghero, Italy, is a coastal town in Sardinia. Paola Giannoni/Getty Images
Dreaming of Italy? For Many Americans, It’s Now a Smart Investment Too
Imagine sipping espresso on a sunlit balcony in Sardinia, knowing your charming Italian apartment is not only a peaceful getaway but also earning you steady income. Sounds too good to be true? Not anymore.
A growing number of Americans are now turning this vision into reality by buying vacation homes in Italy and renting them out. With affordable real estate, incredible scenery, and strong tourism demand, Italy is fast becoming the new hotspot for those chasing the modern American dream—but with a European twist.
Let’s explore why this trend is booming and how it could work for you.
- Italy Offers a Slower Pace of Life—and a Smarter Investment
For Laurie DeRiu, every trip to visit her family in Sardinia left her craving more than just the sunshine and scenery. “It’s a totally different quality of life there,” she said. Tired of the fast pace in the U.S., Laurie and her husband decided to invest in a vacation rental in Alghero, a gorgeous coastal town in Italy.
They sold their U.S. rental property and bought a 3-bedroom apartment for €405,000 ($440,883). Within just five days, they had booked 70% of their available dates—a clear sign of strong rental demand.
Laurie’s story is a perfect example of how Americans are combining personal dreams with profitable decisions.
- Dual Purpose: Vacation Home + Passive Income
What makes this move even smarter? These properties serve a dual purpose—a cozy home for personal use and a high-performing rental during peak tourist seasons.
Laurie plans to stay in Italy from November to May, while letting tourists enjoy the property during summer. This strategy gives her both a vacation lifestyle and a steady stream of income.
- Italy’s Real Estate Is Much Cheaper Than the U.S.
The affordability of Italian homes is a major draw. Marco Permunian, an attorney helping Americans buy in Italy, says he’s seen a 15% rise in U.S. clients in just one year. Why? “Property prices in central and southern Italy are a fraction of what they are in places like California or New York,” he explains.
For example, Kelly Beigle and Boris Krstevski bought a 1,350 sq ft apartment near Milan for €78,000 ($85,000)—less than a typical down payment in Washington, DC. They’re now renovating it with an additional €25,000 investment and expect strong rental income once it’s ready.
Manasse’s property in Lecce. Giulia Re
- Already Renovated Homes Can Start Earning Immediately
Melina Manasse, another American investor, purchased a fully renovated home in Lecce, Italy for $278,000. Within months, she had it listed and expects to earn $3,000 per month.
Her strategy? Smart location choices that align with seasonal demand. With homes in Antigua, England, and Italy, she plans to “bounce” between countries while her properties earn income all year long.
As she puts it: “You’re living net zero—these homes pay for themselves.”
- Skip the U.S. Rat Race: Real Estate Abroad Makes Sense
The traditional model—save up, get a 30-year mortgage, and hope for the best—is losing appeal. More Americans are thinking outside the box, choosing international property for lifestyle and financial freedom.
And the numbers add up. In many Italian towns, short-term rentals average €100 per night, and even 50% occupancy can cover all costs and yield profits.
As Beigle wisely says: “The rat race is outdated. Investing abroad just made sense.”
Kelly Beigle and her husband bought an apartment in Italy for €78,000. Courtesy of Kelly Beigle
Is Buying in Italy Right for You?
If you’ve ever dreamed of living la dolce vita, now might be the time to act. With:
- Affordable property prices
- Booming tourism
- Strong rental demand
- Personal use flexibility
- No U.S. mortgage stress
…Italy is proving to be a smart financial move and a lifestyle upgrade all in one.
Just be sure to do your research, work with reliable local experts, and plan for renovation or legal paperwork if needed.
Final Thoughts: The New American Dream is in Italy
Whether you’re craving calm coastal mornings or a new source of income, investing in an Italian vacation home offers more than just good views. It’s about embracing a life that feels richer—not just financially, but emotionally.
So, if you’re tired of waiting for the American dream to come true… maybe it’s time to live it in Italy.
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