Cagliari is the vibrant capital of Sardinia: a seaside city with its own beach, mild sunshine, and the best infrastructure on the island. It combines relaxed island life with urban comforts. This guide will help you figure out if Cagliari is right for you, where to live, and how to find a job.
Why Cagliari?
Cagliari offers City life right by the sea, plenty of sunshine, a long city beach (Poetto), and a high quality of life at a moderate cost. As Sardinia’s largest city, it has the the island's best infrastructure – A university, a harbor, an airport, and a vibrant downtown. Ideal for anyone looking for that island vibe without being completely cut off from the rest of the world.
Where to Live: Neighborhoods and Rents
- Castello: the historic old town on the hill with a view.
- Marina, Villanova, Stampace: central, lively, with great dining options.
- Poetto and Quartu Sant’Elena: on the city beach, a popular place to live.
- Surrounding Area: quieter and more affordable.
Rents are moderate – cheaper than in the major mainland cities. To learn how lease agreements work, read Rent an Apartment.
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Labor and the Economy
Cagliari is the Administrative, Commercial, and Service Center Sardinia's. Other strong points include Ports and Logistics, Tourism, the university, and a growing IT and service sector. The job market is the best on the island, but it’s relatively small overall; many people also make a living through remote work. You can find out how to look for a job in the guide Find a Job. More about the island in the Sardinia Guide.
Cost of living
Cagliari is moderate – more affordable than the major mainland cities, with a high quality of life. Keep in mind that the island’s location makes some goods and travel more expensive. The overview of the Cost of living.
Everyday Life: Traffic and Climate
The city center is within easy walking distance; there are buses and a light rail system. Cagliari-Elmas Airport and the port provide connections to the mainland. The climate is mediterranean: sunny, with hot summers, mild winters, and frequent winds Maestrale. More at Public Transportation.
First Steps in Cagliari
The usual order applies: Codice Fiscale, Residenza at the Comune di Cagliari, 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 source of income (services, remote work, or self-employment) and plan your logistics on the island. Choose a neighborhood based on your budget and proximity to the beach, obtain 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 Cagliari
Sources
- Municipality of Cagliari (accessed in June 2026)
- ISTAT – National Institute of Statistics (accessed in June 2026)
