Do People in Italy Speak English?
When I moved to Milan in January 2022, there was one question that seemed to linger in people’s minds: “Do people in Italy speak English? How will you survive?”
Reporting back nearly 1.5 years later, I’ve found that the answer might surprise you!
My Life Among the Locals
Despite not being a fluent Italian speaker, I’ve immersed myself quite well into the Italian lifestyle. I work remotely from my monolocale (studio apartment) in Milan, and I meet up with my Italian friends and colleagues numerous times per month.
My inner circle consists of two Italian best friends, and I’m also friendly with my Italian neighbours, coworkers, and various Italian friends of friends. As an introvert, I’d say my social life here is very full and very local.
Since I don’t speak fluent Italian yet, I’ve befriended these Italians by speaking English!
English in Everyday Italian Life
Contrary to the stereotype, my experience reveals that Italians — especially those in Northern and Central Italy — are very comfortable speaking English. I’d wager that the average English level for an Italian in their 20s or 30s is around B2 (upper intermediate), with…
