Lecce is known as the „Florence of the South“: a Baroque gem built of warm sandstone in the heart of Salento, the southernmost tip of Apulia. Plenty of sunshine, great food, two nearby coastlines, and a low cost of living make the city a popular destination. This guide will help you figure out if Lecce is right for you, where to live, and how to find work.
Why Lecce?
Lecce offers Mediterranean lifestyle, culture, and low costs in one of Italy's most beautiful Baroque cities. The city is lively (university), has a vibrant culinary scene, and is just a short distance from the beaches of the Salento on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. If you're looking for sunshine, charm, and tranquility, this is the place for you—though the job market is limited.
Where to Live: Neighborhoods and Rents
- Centro Storico: The Baroque Heart—atmospheric and popular.
- Mazzini, Santa Rosa: modern, livable neighborhoods.
- Suburbs and Surrounding Areas: cheaper, quieter.
- Coastal towns (San Cataldo, Frigole): The sea is within easy reach.
Rents are low. 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
The economy thrives on Tourism, the University, Craft (papier-mâché, stone, ceramics), retail and services, as well as a small but growing IT scene. The job market is weaker than in the north; 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. Learn more about the region at Apulia Guide.
Cost of living
Lecce is inexpensive – for rent, dining out, and everyday expenses. For retirees, the 7% flat-rate tax may also be of interest in smaller municipalities in Salento. The overview of the Cost of living.
Everyday Life: Traffic and Climate
The center is within easy walking distance; trains and buses connect it to Bari and the Salento region, and the nearest major airport is Brindisi. To explore the surrounding area and the beaches, a Practical Car. The climate is mediterranean and very sunny, with hot summers and mild winters. More at Public Transportation.
First Steps in Lecce
The usual order applies: Codice Fiscale, Residenza at the Comune di Lecce, 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 (often remote work, self-employment, or a pension) and choose between the historic city center and the quieter surrounding areas or the coast. 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 Lecce
Sources
- Municipality of Lecce (accessed in June 2026)
- ISTAT – National Institute of Statistics (accessed in June 2026)
