TEFL jobs in Italy
A complete guide for TEFL teachers on teaching English in Italy
Overview
Italia viva! Teaching English in Italy continues to be one of the most rewarding TEFL experiences in Europe. With its blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and world-famous lifestyle, it’s no surprise that demand for English teachers remains strong. Although many Italians study English at school, the quality of instruction can vary, meaning private language schools, exam preparation classes, and freelance tutoring opportunities are on the rise.
If you are dreaming about teaching English in Italy, come prepared with patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humour. The job market is competitive but plentiful, particularly for those with a recognised TEFL qualification and experience. Italy’s popularity as a tourist destination never wanes, and its cities and towns from Rome and Florence to smaller regional centres offer opportunities to teach while immersing yourself in art, history, and Italian daily life.
While many tourists visit and holiday in Italy each year, teaching English allows you to immerse yourself in this enticing location in a way that most travellers can only imagine. English teachers are still in high demand in Italy, and living and teaching English in Italy positions are possible.
Types of teaching jobs
Private Schools
In Italy, most English teaching jobs are still found in private language institutes, as public schools mainly hire EU citizens and qualified Italian nationals. Private schools remain the best entry point for international TEFL teachers. Opportunities exist in Montessori schools, private boarding schools, business schools for professionals, and international schools in larger cities. Many schools now also offer hybrid (in-person and online) learning, creating additional work opportunities. Adult learners continue to make up a large proportion of students, with growing demand for Business English and exam preparation. Some private schools also run summer programmes, which can provide extra work after the school year ends.
Private Lessons
Teaching private lessons remains one of the most popular ways to supplement income in Italy, particularly in urban centres where demand is high. In 2025, rates for private tutoring typically range between €15 and €35 per hour, with higher rates possible in larger cities such as Milan, Florence, or Rome. Many teachers continue to work with university students or professionals preparing for English exams or improving workplace communication. With the high cost of living in Italy, private tutoring is often essential for teachers to boost their earnings. Group classes and online tutoring platforms have also become increasingly common, offering more flexible options for both teachers and learners.
Summer Camps
Summer camps in Italy, such as EDUCO and other cultural exchange programmes still provide excellent short-term opportunities for TEFL teachers, especially those new to teaching abroad. These camps typically run from June to September and focus on immersive, activity-based English learning for children and teenagers. Camps are held across Italy, from big cities to rural towns, giving teachers the chance to travel while gaining classroom and group management experience. For many, this serves as a gateway into longer-term teaching positions in Italy.
Living costs
Consider a vacation to Venice or Rome, and you could conclude that life in Italy is costly. However, even with the relatively low earnings that most TEFL teachers make, life in Italy may be very cheap, even if it is by no means a bargain tourist destination. Italy is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, which is especially apparent when considering the cost of groceries and eating out. Coffee, practically a staple in Italy, is inexpensive and widely available, so at least you can start the day right. However, there are differences – consider the price of a pint of beer at a pub or the inflated cost of a visit to the doctor.
Small town living is always less expensive than living in big cities or popular tourist sites. Moreover, many ex-pats think embracing the low-key, easy-going lifestyle of the peaceful small towns is the most fantastic way to create a work/life balance and keep costs low in Italian culture, so if you are looking for a laid back pace of life, it could suit you well.
Make local or ex-pat friends who know where to go to save money if you live in a larger city. For example, a cup of coffee from a small shop down a quiet alley will be far less expensive than one from a café in St Mark’s square.
In big cities, flatshares are an excellent alternative, but in smaller towns, you might be able to buy your own property. General expenditures are very stable from region to region, and living like the natives will help you get the most out of your trip.
Cost of living prices are taken from Numbeo.com, the world’s largest comparison website.
Key facts
Language: Italian
Population: 60 million
Currency: Euro
Capital: Rome
TEFL job demand: High
Our TEFL rating: 3.8
Popular locations for TEFL jobs
Rome, Milan, Florence, Naples, Bologna, Venice, and Turin remain popular, with growing demand also in southern regions such as Sicily, Calabria, and Puglia, as well as coastal areas like Sardinia and the Adriatic Coast. Opportunities can be found nationwide.
The average salary for EFL teachers
Salaries vary significantly for English teachers in Italy depending on the type of school, location and qualifications and experience etc. However, a typical salary for a full-time position is around €1,200 to €1,400 per month.
Salaries
Wages tend to be higher in northern Italy than in the south, but the cost of living is often lower in smaller towns and rural areas.
Teaching Business English
Can be very lucrative, and private tutoring in English is a great way to make extra money. Hourly wages vary, and some schools may try to pay you less than what you deserve. €12 an hour is standard, but in some places, you can expect more like €25 per hour. Summer school positions will pay around €250 per week.
TEFL qualification requirements
A 120-hour TEFL certificate is the minimum requirement. A bachelor’s degree is preferred by many schools but is not always mandatory.
Prerequisite university degree
Many jobs have a preference for degree holders.
Term times
The academic year in Italy is made up of two semesters. The first semester starts in September and ends in February. The second semester begins in February and ends in June.
Teaching programmes
International Language Schools, Government Schools, Private Schools, Private Tutoring, Summer Camps.
Age restrictions
None
Previous teaching experience
Most jobs require some experience, and elite jobs will ask for several years of teaching experience.
Key Points
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Got Questions?
Get clear answers about TEFL courses, certification, teaching jobs, and everything in between.
Because the job market for English teachers in Italy is quite competitive, having your TESOL/TEFL certificate is required. However, a bachelor’s degree is not required; there are chances available that do not need a university background. If you don’t have a teaching credential, you might consider getting one before applying for positions in Italy.
You can teach in Italy without a college degree, which may open up more work prospects for you. However, if you don’t have a degree, a teaching certificate such as a TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA will suffice.
Salaries for English teachers in Italy vary greatly depending on the type of school, location etc. However, a typical salary for a full-time position is around €1,200 to €1,400 per month.