Cortona
Toscana · Arezzo

Cortona

20,800 residents · 35,900 within 5 km · 495 m above sea level

82Quality of life
58Infrastructure
73Economy

What Cortona is actually like

Cortona, located in the picturesque region of Tuscany, welcomes expats and retirees with its blend of history and culture. This ancient town boasts key attractions such as breathtaking views over the Chiana Valley, artisan shops, and the famed Signorelli Theater. The annual Giostra dell’Archidado festival showcases the town's medieval roots, complementing a vibrant calendar of cultural and food events. Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy panoramic country walks and nearby Lake Trasimeno, while the hilly terrain also offers opportunities for athletic activities. Despite its appealing lifestyle, it is worth noting that Cortona's blend of ancient charm and tourist popularity can sometimes lead to a bustling atmosphere, particularly in peak seasons. Healthcare facilities are adequate, and the expat community is welcoming, providing a supportive environment. For those seeking a serene yet culturally rich Italian experience, Cortona represents a compelling option.

How Cortona scores, and why

  • Quality of life here rates strong (82/100) — lifted by healthcare and getting around on foot, held back by exposure to flood, landslide or earthquake.
  • Infrastructure here rates middling (58/100) — lifted by getting around on foot and rail connections, held back by airport connections and broadband speed.
  • The local economy rates good (73/100) — lifted by a strong job market, held back by the cost of property against local wages.

How Cortona is built

Compact historic comune

Pre-war 48%Mid-century 43%Modern 9%
Settlement pattern
Semi-dispersed
35% of homes scattered in the countryside
In town 65%Dispersed 35%
Condition
89%
Mostly sound — 11% needs work
Good / excellent 89%Poor / mediocre 11%
Occupancy
76%
Mixed — 24% holiday or vacant
Main homes 76%Holiday or vacant 24%
Camucia-MonsiglioloCortonaTerontolaFratta-Santa CaterinaMontecchioMercataleLa Dogana
Historic coreEstablishedPost-warModernRuralSparsely built
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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.

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