I pay $1,850 a month for my 3-bedroom apartment in Italy—take a look inside

In 2003, I embarked on a life-changing journey to L’Aquila, Italy, where I instantly fell in love with the country. This study abroad experience altered the course of my life. Two years later, I returned to pursue my master’s degree in marketing management and communications at Bocconi University in Milan. The bustling city of Milan, with its fashion-forward atmosphere, was a stark contrast to the quaint town of L’Aquila, reminding me of my hometown of Miami.

After completing my studies, I made the decision to make Italy my permanent home. This marked the beginning of a two-decade-long love affair with the country. In 2012, I moved to Milan with my husband, Diego, and our young son, Lorenzo. Today, we have established our life in Milan, where I run a company called Doing Italy, assisting fellow Americans in finding their place in this beautiful country.

Our cozy 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in Milan, spanning 1,227 square feet, serves as our sanctuary. We pay approximately $1,850 per month for this space, which we have called home for the past three years. When we first discovered this apartment, it had retained its original state for over 40 years. Eager to infuse our personality into the space, we embarked on a renovation journey that transformed the apartment into a reflection of our style.

Unlike in the United States, where significant renovations in a rental property may be discouraged, Italy offers government incentives such as tax credits for individuals renovating their homes, even if they are renters. Additionally, our landlord graciously provided us with eight months of rent-free accommodation as we renovated the apartment. The total cost of the renovations amounted to around $41,000, but with government rebates and the rent pause, we managed to save approximately $33,400.

One of the standout features of our newly renovated Milan apartment is the bathroom. This space underwent a complete transformation, featuring elegant hexagon tiles sourced from a charming family-owned company in Tuscany. The kitchen, which had not been updated in 40 years, also received a makeover, with the addition of new cabinets, countertops, and appliances sourced from our previous residence.

To create an open and inviting living room, we demolished a wall and refinished the natural hardwood floors. The space now exudes warmth and comfort, with unique focal points such as bookshelves and a stylish grey couch. In our son’s room, a giant map serves as a playful and educational centerpiece, reflecting our love for travel and exploration.

In our bedroom, we installed an air conditioner, essential for the warm Italian summers. The highlight of this room is a beautifully restored dresser crafted by my husband’s great-grandfather in the 1800s. This piece adds a touch of history and sentimentality to our living space.

Living in Milan has been a dream come true for our family. The abundance of fresh, quality ingredients at local markets allows us to indulge in delicious meals and culinary experiences. The tradition of the aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink and snack, has become a cherished part of our routine, offering moments of relaxation and connection with friends and family.

Italy’s emphasis on leisure and vacation time has allowed us to explore the country’s picturesque destinations, from Lake Como to the Italian Dolomites. As a middle-class immigrant family, the opportunity to enjoy such experiences is truly a blessing, and I am grateful for the life we have built in Milan.

Raising our son in this vibrant city has been a joy, with ample parks, galleries, and family-friendly activities to enrich his childhood. The work-life balance in Italy, with generous vacation time and a culture that values relaxation, has allowed us to savor every moment and create lasting memories.

Living in Milan has not only been a lifestyle choice but a transformative experience that has shaped our family’s story. I am proud to call Italy my home and to share the beauty and richness of this country through my work with Doing Italy. If you’re considering a new career path or seeking fulfillment in your professional life, I invite you to explore CNBC’s online course on making a powerful career change and landing a job you love.

To learn more about my life in Italy, follow me on Instagram @DoingItaly.