Questions We’ll Answer About Starting Over in Sicily

Sicily, with its stunning coastlines, deep historical roots, and welcoming Mediterranean climate, is an ideal destination for those seeking a fulfilling and affordable retirement.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like starting over in Sicily, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we share firsthand experiences and give a casual, unfiltered look at our journey. We tackle questions about cultural adjustments, cost of living in Sicily, navigating expat life, and the differences we’ve seen since moving. From first impressions to current routines, we cover the challenges and joys of building a life here.

Starting over here means embracing change, learning new customs, and adapting to a slower, more community-oriented lifestyle. It’s rewarding but takes patience. We hope this helps you decide if this kind of reset is right for you.

Questions we’ll cover in this blog:

• Where were you born and raised?
• Do you speak Italian or Sicilian?
• Where do you live now?
• Are you working and what do you do for income?
• What was the biggest adjustment moving from the U.S. to Sicily?
• How many children do you have?
• What do you miss from the U.S. besides family?
• How long did it take to get residency?
• Are the locals friendly?
• Are you part of any expat groups?
• What do you dislike most in Sicily?
• What’s your favorite thing about Sicily?
• What’s your favorite local food?
• What’s different in your daily routine?
• What surprised you the most?
• What’s the cost of living like?

Where were you born and raised?

Croce was born and raised in Carini, Sicily, before moving to the U.S. as a teen. I, Carol, was born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. My dad was in the Navy, so we moved a lot. Starting over in Sicily brought us back to Croce’s roots and gave me a new chapter to explore.

Do you speak Italian or Sicilian?

Croce speaks both fluently and also English. I’m working on my Italian and use it daily to shop, run errands, and chat with locals. It’s part of the process of starting over in Sicily and makes daily life easier.

Where do you live now?

We live in Carini, Sicily, just outside Palermo. It’s peaceful, affordable, and has a deep cultural history. Markets, friendly locals, and a slower pace make it a great place to start over.

Are you working and what do you do for income?

I work full-time as a transcriptionist from home. Croce is retired and gets Social Security. Between us, we’re stable and able to enjoy life here without added stress.

What was the biggest adjustment moving from the U.S. to Sicily?

Definitely the pace. In Sicily, life is slower, meals are longer, and relationships matter more. At first, it was an adjustment, but now we love it.

How many children do you have?

Three—two daughters and one son. They all live in Texas. We also have four grandchildren. We stay connected through video calls and visits.

What do you miss from the U.S. besides family?

Croce misses insulation. I miss Ziploc bags. The small things stand out when you start over in a new place.

How long did it take to get residency?

We’re almost done. We submitted all required documents and got our confirmation letter. Now we’re just waiting for the final home visit.

Are the locals friendly?

Extremely. People here are open and helpful. It makes adjusting to life in Sicily easier.

Are you part of any expat groups?

No. Croce reconnected with old friends, and we’ve made connections through everyday life. Language helps us blend in naturally.

What do you dislike most in Sicily?

Croce says the driving. I say trash problems. Both take getting used to.

What’s your favorite thing about Sicily?

Croce loves the weather. I love the people and fresh food. There’s warmth in both the climate and the community.

What’s your favorite local food?

Croce’s is Frutta di Mare, a seafood mix. Mine is eggplant, tomatoes, and olives. The produce here is unbeatable.

What’s different in your daily routine?

Croce relaxes, helps around the house, and plans fishing trips. I work but enjoy more balance. Meals are longer. Neighbors stop by. It’s a calmer rhythm.

What surprised you the most?

Croce was shocked by traffic congestion. I was surprised by how at home I feel. It’s a peaceful, rooted kind of life.

What’s the cost of living like?

It’s much cheaper than Texas. Gas for cooking is 25 euro for a tank, and it lasts over seven weeks. Rent, groceries, and utilities are affordable too. We’ll post a full breakdown soon.

Final thoughts on starting over in Sicily

Starting over in Sicily isn’t just a move. It’s a shift in how you live. Slower pace, better food, more connection. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

There are setbacks, delays, and cultural shifts. But you adjust. The people help you. The land grounds you. And life becomes richer in the small, everyday ways.

It’s not perfect, but it’s personal and meaningful. If you’re considering it, know that with patience and openness, starting over in Sicily can be one of the most fulfilling decisions you make.

If you’re curious about daily life here, check out our home tour in Sicily to see more.

For accurate info on paperwork and residency, visit the official Italian Ministry site.