Why do some people say Italy is a poor country?

Question

Italy used to be a relatively poor country maybe 50 years ago, but I can't see how anyone could possibly call Italy poor now. It's an extremely desirable place to live for many people, especially from poor North African nations. People sometimes place Italy's Standard of Living with places like Tunisia, it's stupid to even begin to compare Italy and Tunisia in terms of wealth. Italy consistently ranks very high in both Human Development Index, and Standard of Living, it is well up there with all the traditionally developed nations like Germany, France, etc.

Yeah, I know some Italians say there wages aren't coming in line with the rising cost of living, but where isn't that the case? Do most Italians think they're poor, or do they realise that they're relatively very wealthy and affluent, and in a good position in terms of state health care, etc.

Answer 1

Because the difference with other european nation is a lot.

We pay many taxes, our work ar paied bad, gasoline have high pricies, house cost a lot, prices of everithink are increasing.

Answer 2

Depend where u live in Italy.

Living in big cities like Rome will definitely be expensive considering that Italy itself is among the top most expensive European Union countries to live in. Taxations are primarily composed of income tax, social security, housing tax and indirect tax.

Overall, Italian taxes rank among the highest in the world. Expatriates may have more opportunities to live comfortably in rural areas. The southern part of the country is not as expensive compared to the luxurious form of the northern area. Immigrants will have to be careful about all aspects to ensure long-term residency.

Answer 3

ciao...

i'm italian!

I think there are states more poor!!here seems poor because you imagine stastes like canada, USA...but here we don't dea for hungry...

sorry for my english...but i hope you understand that i want say

Answer 4

Italians don't think they are poor. The British think they are poor and get paid far more than anyone in Italy. It comes down to quality of life.

What is being poor. Is it someone who you perceive to have less than you. In reality they may have much more.

Answer 5

Wait... who said Italy is poor?

Italy is one of the richest countries in the world.  

Answer 6

isn't true.. is  the 6th nations of the world

Answer 7

In Italy the cost of living increases and we must always deal with wages and taxes. Most people are unable to arrive later this month. More people for go on holiday they must open a mortgage, do a little you. Then we must see from person to person, here comes into play the factor "social class" but also the fact that sales collapse and many companies close are not a good sign of economic prosperity, can not find? This is not to say that we are poor, but the crisis there and feels. Sorry for my english.

Answer 8

What about the rampant inflation... the strangle hold the Mafia has on parts of the country... the low wages and high prices that have resulted in Inflation... and even the cost of a small apartment?... Don't those count?