Regione Abruzzo

Welcome to Abruzzo!
A land of rugged mountains, charming medieval towns, and an exceptional natural landscape, Abruzzo offers a unique blend of history, culture, and lifestyle opportunities. Nestled in central Italy, it is a region of great contrasts, from its snow-capped peaks to its beautiful coastline.

Key Facts & Geography

• Located in central Italy, bordered by Lazio, Marche, Molise, and the Adriatic Sea.
• Population: Approximately 1.3 million inhabitants.
• Diverse landscape: towering mountains (including the Apennines), rolling hills, and pristine beaches along the Adriatic.
• Rich in national parks and nature reserves, including Gran Sasso and Majella, which are perfect for outdoor activities.
• Accessible to both Rome and the Adriatic, making it an ideal location for business, tourism, and remote work.

Main Cities

• L'Aquila (capital)
  With a population of around 70,000, L'Aquila is a key administrative and cultural center, known for its historic buildings and university.
• Pescara
  The largest city, with around 120,000 residents, Pescara is a bustling coastal hub, known for its lively beaches and active port. It's a commercial and tourism center.
• Teramo
  A historic town in the northern part of the region, with around 51,500 residents, Teramo is known for its rich cultural heritage and nearby natural beauty.
• Chieti
  An ancient city with Roman roots, Chieti, with a population of around 48,400, offers a mix of culture, history, and proximity to the sea.

Economy & Labour Market

• In 2024, Abruzzo’s GDP growth was +1.1%, slightly above the national average, with a steady increase in employment (+2.3%).
• Key Sectors:
  • Tourism — A growing sector thanks to both coastal tourism and the appeal of its mountains for winter sports.
  • Agriculture — Known for its high-quality food production, including wine, olive oil, truffles, saffron and meat products.
  • Manufacturing — The region has a strong industrial base, especially in textiles, machinery, and food processing.
  • Renewable Energy — Wind and solar energy production are on the rise, driven by the region's natural resources.
• Labour stats:
  • Unemployment rate: ~9.2%, with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and emerging sectors like green energy.

Strengths & Lifestyle Perks

• High quality of life: Fresh air, clean waters, wide-open spaces, and a lower cost of living compared to major Italian cities.
• Affordable housing: Especially outside urban centers, there’s a great potential for people looking for more affordable living options.
• Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts: Skiing in winter, hiking in spring and summer, and beaches just a short drive away.
• Remote work and entrepreneurship: A growing digital economy, particularly in tourism, e-commerce, and green energy.
• Distinct regional culture: With unique festivals, delicious local food (such as arrosticini), and a strong sense of identity.

Regional Public Employment Services in Abruzzo (Centri per l’Impiego) - Department of Labour and Productive Activities of Abruzzo Region:

Key Services provided for Jobseekers and Employers (All free of charge)

• Ordinary Placement (Collocamento Ordinario): Support for all individuals seeking work.
• Targeted Placement (Collocamento Mirato): Specialized services for vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, long-term unemployed, and young workers.
• Employer Services (Servizio alle Imprese): Assistance with recruitment, incentives, and employer engagement.
• Career Counseling: Guidance on career planning, job search strategies, and labor market integration.
• Training & Upskilling: Access to various professional development programs, including courses to meet the demands of the regional labor market.
• Job Fairs and Mobility Programs: Organization of events for jobseekers to meet potential employers, as well as international work placement opportunities within the EU.
• Regional and International Networking: Engagement in European networks – EURES - for job creation, mobility, and EU-funded projects.

Abruzzo offers a relaxed yet dynamic environment for those looking for a mix of nature, culture, and work-life balance. With its growing economy and emerging industries, there are increasing opportunities, particularly for individuals with specific skills, language knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit.