Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Italy Property Pack
Yes, the analysis of Milan's property market is included in our pack
Why is Milan emerging as a prime destination for property investment in 2025? Is it the city's rich cultural heritage, the thriving fashion and design industries, or the strategic location in Europe? What are the key advantages for investors?
We get asked these questions all the time because we’re on the ground, working closely with developers, real estate agents, and investors like you. With so much interest in this market, we’ve decided to turn our individual answers into a comprehensive article for everyone to benefit from.
Our goal is to provide a clear case for investing in Milan's real estate market, backed by our firsthand experience and market knowledge.
If you think we missed an important point in our content or want to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out (we answer super fast). Your feedback makes our content even stronger.
Finally, please note that this is not financial or investment advice. Investing in real estate carries inherent risks, and market conditions can change unexpectedly. We strongly encourage you to conduct thorough research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
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1) Milan’s strong job market draws young professionals eager to buy their first homes
Milan's job market is a magnet for young professionals eager to buy their first homes.
The city is buzzing with multinational companies, offering a wealth of job opportunities. For instance, Deloitte's new headquarters in Milan will employ around 5,000 people, highlighting the city's vibrant employment scene. This influx of jobs is particularly appealing to young professionals looking to settle down.
The tech and digital sectors are thriving, drawing in young talent with promising career prospects. With 4,700 foreign-owned business headquarters in the city, including giants like Amazon and Microsoft, Milan is solidifying its reputation as a major job hub. This makes it an attractive place for those starting their careers and considering homeownership.
Higher average salaries, thanks to Italy's economic recovery, are making it easier for young professionals to afford homes. This financial stability, coupled with government initiatives supporting first-time homebuyers, is encouraging many to take the plunge into property ownership.
In Milan, the combination of a strong job market and supportive financial conditions is creating a perfect storm for young professionals. The city's dynamic environment and career opportunities are making it a top choice for those looking to buy their first home.
With a bustling economy and a wealth of opportunities, Milan is not just a place to work but a place to live and invest in. The city's appeal is undeniable for young professionals eager to establish roots and build their futures.
Sources: Uplavoro, Pimco Prime Real Estate, Yes Milano, Business Italy
2) Milan’s historic neighborhoods provide unique opportunities for investing in heritage properties
Investing in Milan's historic neighborhoods is a smart move because property values are on the rise.
Take the Navigli District, for example, where property prices have jumped to €6,487 per square meter as of October 2023, reflecting a 7.72% increase from last year. Meanwhile, in the Brera District, prices range from €8,100/m² to €9,833/m², showcasing its premium status.
The city's tourism boom is a big driver here. In 2023, Milan attracted 8.5 million visitors, boosting demand for properties with character and history. This influx is largely due to Milan's rich cultural scene, making historic homes even more appealing.
Investors also benefit from government incentives like tax breaks for preserving heritage buildings. Popular areas such as Navigli and Brera offer higher rental yields thanks to their tourist appeal, promising good returns.
Look at Porta Venezia, where successful restorations have shown how property values can soar. Media often highlights Brera's charm, with its cobblestone streets and baroque architecture, making it a hot spot for buyers.
These neighborhoods are not just about aesthetics; they offer unique investment opportunities in heritage properties that are hard to find elsewhere.
Sources: IAD Overseas, AN Hotels, Road Genius
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Italy versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.
3) Milan’s location is perfect for frequent travelers looking for a convenient base
Milan's location in Europe is perfect for frequent travelers.
Being close to major cities like Zurich and Paris, Milan is a breeze for business trips and quick getaways. You can hop over to these bustling hubs in no time, making it a prime spot for those who need to be on the move.
The city is also a rail enthusiast's dream. With high-speed trains like the TGV and Le Frecce, you can zip from Paris to Milan and then down to Rome without breaking a sweat. This seamless rail network makes exploring Europe both easy and enjoyable.
And let's not forget Milan Malpensa Airport, a key player in international travel. With direct flights to 199 destinations across 81 countries, it's a gateway to the world. Whether you're heading to New York, Toronto, or São Paulo, Milan has you covered.
For those who love to travel, Milan's connectivity is a game-changer. It's not just about getting from point A to B; it's about doing it with ease and style.
So, if you're considering a base in Europe, Milan offers unmatched convenience for both business and leisure travelers.
Sources: Routes Online, Eurail, Flight Connections
4) Milan’s mix of modern and historic buildings gives you unique investment options
Milan's mix of modern and historic architecture makes it a hot spot for property investment.
In the heart of the city, property values are climbing, with prices around €10,780 per square meter in 2024. This shows a strong demand and a promising chance for your investment to grow.
Milan isn't just about fashion; it's a business hub too, attracting international buyers. People from all over the world are interested in luxury apartments, especially in the historic parts of the city, thanks to Milan's cultural charm and economic strength.
Tourism is booming, and with it, short-term rental opportunities are on the rise. As of June 2023, there were over 20,000 Airbnb listings, making this a lucrative option for steady income.
Investing in Milan means tapping into a city where modern life meets rich history, offering unique opportunities for growth and income.
Sources: Statista, Tourism Review, ArchDaily
5) Milan’s urban regeneration projects boost property values in revitalized areas
Milan's urban regeneration projects are boosting property values in revitalized areas.
Take the Porta Romana district, for example. After some serious regeneration efforts, property values have shot up. This isn't just a fluke; the "Vincenzo Monti Prestige Prime Residential 2024" report backs it up, showing that even with rising prices, investors and homebuyers are still eager to get in on the action.
There's a real buzz around housing in these newly spruced-up parts of Milan. The private rented sector is especially hot, with prime rents climbing by 2.2% in 2023 and a whopping 7.0% since 2019. This surge is all about limited supply and the newfound appeal of these areas.
These projects aren't just about sprucing up old buildings; they're about making life better. In the Isola district, for instance, public spaces and amenities have been upgraded, turning it into a more desirable place to call home. This kind of development is a win-win, breathing new life into urban areas and opening doors for growth and investment.
So, if you're thinking about buying property in Milan, these regenerated areas are worth a look. They're not just pretty faces; they're packed with potential. With improved infrastructure and amenities, these neighborhoods are becoming prime spots for both living and investing.
Keep an eye on these trends, as they show no signs of slowing down. Milan's urban regeneration is a game-changer, transforming the city's landscape and property market.
Sources: Idealista, Unlocking Real Estate Value
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6) Milan’s booming fashion scene means professionals are always looking for homes
Milan's fashion industry is a magnet for professionals looking for housing in the city.
With 58,000 fashion-related businesses and a turnover of 108 billion euros, Milan is a bustling hub for the fashion world. The city offers a wealth of opportunities, employing 560,000 workers in this sector, making it a prime destination for those in the industry.
One of the highlights of Milan's fashion calendar is Milan Fashion Week, a major event that hosts over 170 shows and presentations. This week alone brings in nearly 796,000 visitors, creating a vibrant atmosphere and boosting the local economy.
The influx of fashion enthusiasts and professionals during these events generates tourism revenue of 213 million euros, further increasing the demand for housing. This constant flow of visitors and industry insiders keeps the city's real estate market lively and competitive.
Living in Milan means being at the heart of a city where fashion is not just an industry but a way of life. The city's dynamic environment and thriving fashion scene make it an attractive place for professionals seeking both career opportunities and a vibrant lifestyle.
For those considering a move, Milan offers a unique blend of professional growth and cultural richness, making it a top choice for anyone in the fashion industry.
Sources: Savills, Surecom America, Fashion United
7) Milan’s tech hub status attracts tech workers, boosting housing demand
Milan is now a major hub for tech innovation, drawing in tech workers who need housing.
By the end of 2023, Milan boasted 2,669 innovative start-ups, making it Italy's top city for tech start-ups. This surge is fueled by tech giants like IBM, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon setting up shop in the city.
The tech job market in Milan is thriving, with over 8,400 tech job openings anticipated by 2025, particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics. This demand is driven by Milan's key role in Italy's ICT market, which is expected to hit €91.7 billion by 2025.
Milan is also recognized as one of Europe's leading tech hubs, with significant investments in fintech and biotech. The Italian government has rolled out reforms and incentives to boost investment in innovative start-ups, further cementing Milan's status as a tech innovation center.
For those considering a move, Milan's tech scene offers a vibrant community and ample opportunities. The city's growth in tech is not just about numbers; it's about creating a dynamic environment where innovation thrives.
Living in Milan means being part of a city that is shaping the future of technology in Europe. The influx of tech professionals is transforming neighborhoods, creating a demand for housing that matches the city's innovative spirit.
Sources: Euronews, Seedtable, Nucamp
8) International events like Salone del Mobile in Milan increase short-term rental demand
When Milan hosts international events like the Salone del Mobile, short-term rental demand skyrockets.
These events draw in a massive crowd, and in 2024, the Salone del Mobile saw 361,417 attendees, marking a 17.1% increase from the previous year. With so many visitors, hotels fill up fast, pushing people to look for alternatives like Airbnb.
During these bustling times, Airbnb bookings and prices in Milan surge. In early 2024, the average daily rate for Airbnb listings jumped by 10%, climbing from €115.55 to €127.10. This clearly shows how much people are willing to pay for a place to stay during big events.
These international gatherings don't just boost tourism; they also cement Milan's status as a global hub for innovation and business. The influx of visitors means more spending and a higher demand for short-term rentals. By September 2024, Milan had 19,811 active Airbnb listings, a testament to this growing trend.
For those considering buying property in Milan, these events highlight the potential for lucrative short-term rental opportunities. The city's ability to attract international visitors consistently makes it a prime location for investment.
Owning a property here could mean tapping into a steady stream of rental income, especially during peak event seasons. With Milan's reputation and the continuous flow of visitors, the demand for short-term rentals is unlikely to wane anytime soon.
Sources: The Core Design, Adigrat, Airbtics
We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Italy. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.
9) Milan’s excellent healthcare makes it a top choice for retirees seeking quality medical care
Milan's healthcare system is a big draw for retirees who want top-notch medical care.
In 2025, hospitals like Ospedale San Raffaele and Policlinico San Donato were ranked among the world's best for specialized and smart healthcare. This recognition shows just how high the quality of healthcare is in Milan. Retirees can feel confident knowing they're in a city with some of the best medical facilities around.
Italy, and Milan in particular, boasts a high doctor-to-patient ratio with 4.1 physicians per 1,000 people. This is above the world average, meaning there are plenty of doctors available. For retirees, this is reassuring as it ensures access to medical attention whenever needed.
Milan's hospitals offer a wide range of specialized services, from cardiology to neurology and oncology. This variety means retirees can get the specific care they need without having to travel far, making life a lot easier.
For those considering a move, it's worth noting that Milan's healthcare system is internationally recognized for its excellence. This is a city where medical care is not just available but is of a quality that stands out on the global stage.
With such a strong healthcare system, retirees can enjoy peace of mind knowing they have access to some of the best medical care available. This makes Milan an attractive option for those looking to settle down in a place where their health needs are well taken care of.
Sources: Statista, GSD International, The Global Economy
10) Milan’s focus on smart city tech makes tech-savvy homes more appealing
The city's investment in smart city technologies is making tech-savvy homes more attractive by boosting property values in areas with these initiatives.
Take Milan, for instance, where neighborhoods with advanced public lighting and smart mobility systems are seeing a noticeable rise in property prices. This isn't just a local trend; it's part of a broader growth in the Italian smart city market, which hit €900 million in 2022, up by 23% from the previous year.
People are increasingly drawn to tech-enabled homes in smart cities like Milan. This surge in interest is largely due to the focus on digitalized services and a strong data analytics infrastructure. With a whopping 89% of Italian local governments jumping on the smart transformation bandwagon, it's clear that smart technologies are in high demand.
The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) is also playing a big role by pouring significant funds into smart city projects across Italy. They've earmarked €17.1 billion for these initiatives, with €9 billion specifically for digitizing public administration and €7 billion for ecological transition and green revolution investments.
These investments are not just about making cities smarter; they're about making homes more appealing to tech-savvy buyers. Imagine living in a place where everything from public transport to energy management is optimized for efficiency and sustainability.
For potential property buyers, this means not only a modern living experience but also a wise investment, as areas with smart city features are likely to see continued growth in property values.
Sources: Trade.gov, StartUs Insights
11) Milan’s airport connections attract global business travelers
Milan's Malpensa Airport is a key hub for global business travelers.
In 2022, Malpensa Airport welcomed 21.3 million passengers, making it the second busiest in Italy. This bustling activity places it as the 23rd busiest airport in Europe, underscoring its role in connecting people worldwide.
With major airlines like Alitalia, British Airways, easyJet, and Ryanair operating here, travelers have a wide array of flight options. The airport's growth in Chinese traffic, with flights to mainland China and Hong Kong, highlights its global connectivity.
Direct flights to major business hubs make Milan even more attractive. Malpensa connects directly to key cities, ensuring efficient travel for business. Its strategic location in northern Italy, near the Swiss border, makes it a prime spot for European business travel.
For those considering property in the area, Milan's connectivity is a significant advantage. The ease of travel can be a game-changer for business professionals who need to move quickly and efficiently.
Whether you're flying to Asia or within Europe, Milan's airport offers seamless connections. This makes it not just a travel hub, but a gateway to global business opportunities.
Sources: Wikipedia, GetByBus, International Airport Review
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12) Milan’s role as a financial hub keeps demand high for luxury apartments
The city's status as a financial hub keeps the demand for high-end apartments buzzing.
International professionals and expatriates flock here, often seeking luxury accommodations near business districts. Take Torre GalFa, for instance, which is conveniently close to the Central Station, making it a hot spot for those in finance.
With multinational corporations setting up shop, the need for high-end housing is on the rise. This corporate boom not only fuels short-term rentals but also pushes up property prices in areas like Garibaldi, Moscova, Porta Nuova, and CityLife.
In 2023, these financial districts saw a 2.1% increase in property values, reflecting the ongoing demand. Events like Milan Design Week further highlight this trend, with luxury apartments enjoying high occupancy rates.
During such events, the average daily rate for an apartment hit €386, even peaking at €414, showing that high-end properties are always in demand. Real estate agencies back this up, noting the steady rise in property prices and the popularity of luxury housing.
In Milan's financial districts, luxury apartments are a hot commodity, consistently drawing interest from both locals and internationals.
Sources: Columbus International, Columbus International, Gruppo UNA
13) Milan is perfect for weekend getaways with its close access to the Alps and lakes
Milan is a perfect launchpad for weekend escapes to the Alps and lakes.
In 2023, tourism in the Lombardy region boomed, with more people choosing Milan as their base to explore nearby natural wonders. This surge in visitors shows that Milan is not just a city of fashion and finance but also a gateway to nature.
Thanks to major infrastructure upgrades, getting to the Alps and lakes from Milan is now a breeze. These improvements mean you can easily swap the city's hustle and bustle for serene mountain views or a lakeside retreat.
The rise in travel packages and tours from Milan to these scenic spots is a testament to the growing demand for quick getaways. Whether you're into hiking or skiing, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast looking to recharge over the weekend.
With Milan's strategic location, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: vibrant city life and tranquil nature. The city's proximity to these natural attractions makes it a top choice for those who crave a mix of urban and outdoor experiences.
So, if you're considering buying property in Milan, remember that you're not just investing in a home; you're also gaining access to some of Italy's most stunning landscapes, perfect for spontaneous adventures.
Sources: Statista, Camping Business, Knight Frank
14) Milan’s diverse population means there’s a high demand for different housing styles
Milan's diverse population is a key driver of demand for varied housing types and styles.
In 2023, Milan was bustling with 475,171 foreign citizens, including large communities from Egypt, Romania, the Philippines, and China. This mix of cultures means that people bring their own housing preferences, leading to a need for a wide range of housing options. The city's vibrant cultural scene, with events like the Forum della Città Mondo, highlights Milan's multicultural nature and the importance of accommodating different lifestyles in housing.
With over 2,000 foreign-invested enterprises and numerous consulates and international offices, Milan attracts many expatriates. This influx of international residents further diversifies the housing market, as they often seek homes that reflect their cultural backgrounds and lifestyle needs.
Local schools in Milan offer diverse language programs, catering to international families and indicating a demand for family-friendly housing that supports educational needs. The presence of these schools shows that families from around the world are settling in Milan, looking for homes that suit their unique requirements.
The variety of international cuisine restaurants and grocery stores in Milan reflects the city's diverse culinary preferences. This suggests a need for housing that accommodates different lifestyles and cultural influences, as people want to live in neighborhoods that offer a taste of home.
In Milan, the demand for housing is not just about space but about creating environments that reflect the city's rich tapestry of cultures. This diversity in demand is a testament to Milan's role as a global city, where cultural diversity shapes the housing market.
Sources: Agenda 21 Culture, Assolombarda, The Italy Insider, Statista
While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility. Finally, please note that we are not affiliated to any of the sources provided. Our analysis remains then 100% impartial.