Basilicata (also Lucania (as it’s called) is one of Italy’s most unspoiled regions: the famous cave dwellings of Matera, rugged mountains, and two coastlines along the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. Sparsely populated, authentic, and very affordable. This guide shows you the best places to live and what to look out for.
Why Basilicata?
Basilicata offers Authenticity, nature, and very low costs: the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera (one of the oldest cities in the world), national parks, and two seas. It is quiet and not very touristy—ideal for people seeking authenticity and a slower pace of life. For foreign retirees, the 7% Flat-Rate Tax might be of interest in smaller communities.
Where to Live: Towns and the Countryside
- Matter: the world-famous city of Sassi (Cave District), Culture and Tourism.
- Potenza: the mountainous capital, home to the government and infrastructure.
- Maratea: the „Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea“ on the west coast.
- Ionian Coast (Metaponto) and mountain villages: beaches and very affordable housing.
Living is very affordable. To learn how lease agreements work, go to Rent an Apartment.
Where to Go in Italy? A Comparison of Regions for Expats
North, Central, or South? A comparison of climate, costs, jobs, and the expat community—here’s how to find the right region to move to in Italy.
Labor and the Economy
Strong are Agriculture, a significant Automobile Plant (Stellantis in Melfi), Oil and Gas Production (Val d’Agri) as well as the growing Tourism around Matera. Overall, the job market remains weak; many newcomers make a living through remote work, self-employment, or retirement. You can find out how to search in the guide Find a Job.
Cost of living
Basilicata is one of the the most affordable regions in Italy. The overview of the following shows what you should expect: Cost of living.
Everyday Life: Climate and Transportation
A A car is practically a must, since trains and buses run infrequently. The climate ranges from cool in the mountains until Mediterranean along the coasts. More at Driving in Italy.
First Steps in Basilicata
The usual order applies: Codice Fiscale, Residenza at your municipality of residence, registration with the health department, and a bank account. You can find the complete process in the Moving Checklist.
What You Need to Do Next
Determine your income (remote work, self-employment, or pension), plan to buy a car, and—if you’re retired—check the 7% tax in a smaller municipality. Get your Codice Fiscale and—if you’re a non-EU citizen—the appropriate visa, and work through the steps one by one.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Moving to Basilicata
Sources
- Basilicata Region (accessed in June 2026)
- ISTAT – National Institute of Statistics (accessed in June 2026)
