The North is characteristically wealthy with a prosperous trade, industrial economy, and developed tourist infrastructure. Milan is the wealthiest city in Italy, and living expenses and income are almost twice that of the south.
Milan is the capital of the Lombardy region in northern Italy and is the wealthiest city in Italy.
Why is northern Italy richer than the south? The north has been the industrial center and economic engine of the country even before the reunification of Italy that took place back in the year 1848.
Typically speaking, northern Italy is wealthier than southern Italy, and is the country's center of industry. The country's economic powerhouse, Milan, is solidly in northern Italy.
While Northern Italy is generally considered more prosperous and developed than the South, both regions offer their own charms and attractions for visitors. The North of Italy is home to vibrant cities like Milan and Venice, as well as beautiful lakes, mountains, and wine regions.
The north has a high concentration of famous cities but also encompasses some of the best natural areas such as lakes and mountains. The south on the other hand is more laid-back, and affordable and has extremely fresh food, lots of countrysides and great beaches.
Southern Italy is quite affordable, particularly when compared to other regions in Italy or other popular European destinations. The cost of living, including food, accommodations, and transportation, tends to be marginally lower in Southern Italy than in the North.
For those hoping for a fashionable city break, a ski trip or a lake visit, head north. Those ready for a little adventure and sunshine should consider the south or one of Italy's many islands. If you simply can't decide, plan trips to both regions.
Northern and Central Italy became prosperous in the late Middle Ages through the growth of international trade and the rise of the merchant class, who eventually gained almost complete control of the governments of the Italian city-states.
It is impossible to rank the most beautiful beaches in Italy. However, the areas known for having the best beaches are: Sicily, Sardinia, the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, and Puglia. In each of these locations, there are countless beaches and small islands to explore.
Italy has a GDP per capita of $39,000 as of 2020, while in Australia, the GDP per capita is $48,700 as of 2020.
Italy is 15.5% cheaper than Australia.
Italy's tax authority brought in €108m from the initiative in 2021 while luxury brands are investing more in areas where the super-rich take up residence, which is mainly in Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice and areas of Tuscany, Lombardy and Liguria, but also in the south including Sicily.
The Basilicata region is Italy's sad frontrunner. Basilicata is the poorest, economically most backward region in Italy. About 20 percent of the population still live from agriculture, significantly more than the Italian average of 8 percent. The region does not have its own airport.
Lombardy is one of the most prosperous and industrialized regions in Italy. The region is home to some of the country's most popular cities, including Milan, Bergamo, and Brescia. Lombardy's residents are famous for being hardworking.
Genetic adaptations of early Italian ancestors to environmental changes, such as those that occurred soon after the Last Glacial Maximum, may explain some of the genetic differences between northern and southern Italian populations today, according to a study published in BMC Biology.
From that century on, European trade shifted from south-east and the Mediterrean to north west and the Atlantic ocean. This is why southern Italy (Europe) is generally poorer than northern Italy (Europe).
Italian emigration was fueled by dire poverty. Life in Southern Italy, including the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, offered landless peasants little more than hardship, exploitation, and violence. Even the soil was poor, yielding little, while malnutrition and disease were widespread.
For the best beaches, towns and diving, head West, while for tranquillity, shopping and heritage, the East Coast awaits. Get ready to explore your own personal paradise.
Italy has nice beaches all over the country. The west coast is best for warm water. However, the east coast's beaches tend to be more natural and pristine. Where to go in Italy for a beach vacation will depend on your personal preferences.
If you're wondering what is Italy weather like when you go to its south, it is customarily warmer than in the north.
Cost of living in Italy is 24% cheaper than in Australia.
The average cost of living in Australia ($2104) is 59% more expensive than in Italy ($1320). Australia ranked 11th vs 36th for Italy in the list of the most expensive countries in the world. The average after-tax salary is enough to cover living expenses for 1.8 months in Australia compared to 1.3 months in Italy.
Tuscany has set another record. According to a survey conducted by the national financial daily Il Sole 24 Ore, the southern Tuscan province of Siena, which boasts some of the most beautiful natural areas in the country, is also one of the wealthiest provincial capitals in Italy.