Modena
Emilia-Romagna

Modena

184,100 residents · 410,500 within 5 km · 36 m above sea level

88Quality of life
78Infrastruktur
87Economy

What Modena is actually like

Modena, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, offers an appealing blend of culture, gastronomy, and history, making it an attractive option for expats and retirees. The city is renowned for its exquisite balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and a significant automotive heritage, prominently featuring the Enzo Ferrari Museum. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Modena’s historic center boasts stunning architecture, including the Palazzo dei Musei and Gallerie Estensi, home to extensive art collections. Population density contributes to a vibrant community atmosphere, complemented by a high walkability score and convenient public transport options. Healthcare quality is notable, enhancing the appeal for retirees. However, Modena experiences hot summers and winter fog, and the local expatriate community is smaller than in larger cities, which may affect social connectivity. Despite these challenges, Modena’s rich culinary scene, cultural events, and friendly local markets provide a rewarding lifestyle for newcomers.

How Modena is built

Post-war expanded comune

Pre-war 27%Mid-century 63%Modern 10%
Settlement pattern
Compact
12% of homes scattered in the countryside
In town 88%Dispersed 12%
Condition
95%
Mostly sound — 5% needs work
Good / excellent 95%Poor / mediocre 5%
Occupancy
82%
Lived-in year-round — 18% holiday or vacant
Main homes 82%Holiday or vacant 18%
ModenaSan DamasoBaggiovaraAlbaretoVillanovaPortileLesignana
Historic coreEstablishedPost-warModernRuralSparsely built

Building age, condition and occupancy from the ISTAT census (2011), by census section. Occupancy is shown as one honest split — the 2011 census does not reliably separate holiday homes from vacant ones.

Towns like Modena

Closest matches in Emilia-Romagna on quality of life, infrastructure and economy.

The rest of the Modena profile — cost of living, healthcare, climate, broadband, schools and the full pros & cons — is behind a free account.