Why More Americans Are Buying Homes in Europe — and Why Bologna Is on Their Radar

Over the past few years, a growing number of Americans have started looking beyond U.S. borders in search of their next real estate investment — and Europe has quickly emerged as a favorite destination. Whether driven by lifestyle dreams, long-term investment goals, or the possibilities of remote work, U.S. buyers are increasingly planting roots across historic cities and sun-soaked coastlines throughout the continent.

So, what’s behind this surge — and why is a city like Bologna, Italy suddenly appearing at the top of many wish-lists? Let’s dive in.

1. Quality of Life: Slower Pace, Deeper Living

Many European countries offer a lifestyle that’s hard to replicate in the United States. Picture morning walks to the bakery, walkable neighborhoods, fresh local markets, public health care systems, and a stronger emphasis on leisure and personal well-being. For Americans weary of fast-paced, high-stress urban environments, the European way of life has become more than vacation inspiration — it’s becoming a long-term plan.

2. Cost-of-Living & Housing Affordability

In surprising contrast to many major U.S. metro areas, real estate in parts of Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France remains relatively attainable. In many cases, beautiful apartments or village homes can be found at prices far below those seen in coastal U.S. states. Factor in day-to-day living expenses like groceries, transportation, and healthcare, and it’s not hard to see why savvy buyers are venturing abroad to stretch their dollars.

3. The European Dream Is Still Alive

There’s a timeless romanticism to Europe: cobblestone streets, Renaissance plazas, charming cafés, terracotta rooftops, and vineyard-covered hills. That dream — once reserved for postcards and backpackers — is now a reality for retirees, remote professionals, and investors alike. From Parisian pieds-à-terre to Mediterranean farmhouses, the emotional pull of European property ownership is stronger than ever.

4. Real Estate as a Long-Term Investment

For buyers looking at the market through the lens of ROI, European real estate offers attractive benefits:

• Stable, appreciating markets in core cities

• Strong demand for vacation rentals and furnished long-lets

• Portfolio diversification (hedging against U.S. economic shifts)

Many Americans are leveraging short-term rental platforms and EU residency incentive programs to create both lifestyle flexibility and rental income streams.

5. Remote Work Means ‘Home’ Is Now Flexible

The normalization of remote work has completely changed how — and where — people live. As long as they have Wi-Fi, thousands of U.S. professionals are choosing lifestyle over proximity to an office. With Europe offering both cultural depth and modern connectivity, destinations like Lisbon, Madrid, Florence, and Paris have become hubs for “digital expats.”

📍 Spotlight: Top European Destinations

From Portugal’s Algarve coast to Spain’s Costa del Sol, from France’s Provence to Greece’s islands — Europe offers a wide range of lifestyle and investment options for American buyers. Whether you’re looking for beachfront relaxation, countryside charm, or city sophistication, there’s a destination to match every dream and budget.

Thinking of Buying in Europe?

EuropBridge specializes in helping American buyers safely navigate every step of the international real estate process — from selecting the right city to handling legal requirements, currency transfers, taxation, relocation, and ongoing property management.

Whether you’re dreaming of a vacation bolthole, a rental investment, or a long-term lifestyle transition, our team is here to bridge the distance — and turn European dreams into addresses.

👉 Ready to explore your options? Reach out today to start your personalized buying strategy.