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Elevation

[?] Elevation of a city refers to the height above sea level at which the city is located, measured in meters.
7

Population

[?] This is a town's official population, measured each year by the national statistics authority.
298700

Real Population (5km)

[?] Our "Real Population" metric reflects more accurately a town's real size by including inhabitants in the immediate vicinity of the town's official borders.
511200

Air Quality Rating

[?] Based on PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, and ozone levels. Higher scores indicate cleaner air.
100

Region

Sicilia

Walkability

Walker’s Paradise

Housing availability

[?] Based on total number of properties (sale and rent) classifies housing availability into five categories: low, relativel ylow, medium, relatively high and high.
High

Avg Download Speed (Mbps) / Avg Upload Speed (Mbps)

304
/ 183

Climate Description

Mediterranean climate: mild winters, warm summers, abundant sun, no snow, moderate rain.

Catania

Sicilia

Sicily’s second-largest city, noted for Baroque architecture, active culture, and proximity to Mount Etna.

Quality of Life Score

[?]Factors in air quality, amenities, walkability, population, and environmental risks. Higher scores suggest better living conditions.

83

Quality of Infrastructure

[?]Measures internet speed, healthcare access, airports, rail, and walkability. Higher scores mean better connectivity and essential services.

75

Quality of Economy

[?]Based on income, property prices, job availability, and population density. Higher scores indicate stronger economic conditions.

74

Catania Demographics

Population

[?] This is a town's official population, measured each year by the national statistics authority.

298700

Real Population (5km band)

[?] Our "Real Population" metric reflects more accurately a town's real size by including inhabitants in the immediate vicinity of the town's official borders.

511200

Births Per 100 Deaths

70.0

Population Data Source

ISTAT,2023

Estimated Unemployment Rate

Touristy Index

[?] Calculation of tourist density index for the city, comparing its total tourist number to the overall average tourist number of the region relative to its own population.The index indicates how a location’s tourist density compares to the average, with values above 100 representing higher-than-average density and values below 100 representing lower-than-average density.

Some Tourism

Income per capita (2023)

[?] This is an estimation of average income per resident for this town, based on 2023 data from the Italian Ministry of Finance.

20500

Income rank in Italy (2023)

[?] This is a ranking of the town's average income per resident, against the full list of townships in Italy.

3882 out of 7901

Infrastructure and Connectivity

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Infrastructure & Amenities

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Healthcare

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Housing & Property Market

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Connectivity & Digital Access

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Education

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Climate & Weather

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Precipitation

[?] Based on daily climate data for precipitation from OPEN-METEO this parameter indicates how a city's annual precipitation compares to others in terms of percentage, with values ranging from 0 (lowest) to 1 (highest). For example, a percentile rank of 0.75 means the city's total precipitation is higher than 75% of other cities.

Above Average (51st-60th percentile)

Sunshine

Above Average (51st-60th percentile)

Snowfall

Very Low (Bottom 10%)

Min Annual Temperature (°C)

[?] This parameter represents the monthly average of daily minimum temperatures for January, based on data from OPEN-METEO.

11.4

Max Annual Temperature (°C)

[?] This parameter represents the monthly average of daily minimum temperatures for January, based on data from OPEN-METEO.

31

Climate Description

Catania, situated on the east coast of Sicily, enjoys a Mediterranean climate known for its mild winters and warm-to-hot summers. The city experiences abundant sunshine throughout the year, contributing to its allure among expats and retirees. Despite its southern position, Catania does not receive snow, offering residents a year-round mild weather environment perfect for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate but well-distributed across the seasons, ensuring lush landscapes without the inconvenience of excessive wet periods. This climatic balance makes Catania an enticing locale for those from colder or more variable climates, seeking a steady and pleasant weather pattern.

Annual Temperature Chart (Min)

Annual Temperature Chart (Max)

Sunny Days By Month

Environmental & Air Quality

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Classifications

PM10

[?] PM10 levels indicate Good air quality at 0–20 µg/m³, Fair at 20–40 µg/m³, Moderate at 40–50 µg/m³, Poor at 50–100 µg/m³, Very Poor at 100–150 µg/m³, and Extremely Poor at 150–1200 µg/m³.

Good

PM2.5

[?] PM2.5 is Good if PM2.5 levels are between 0–10 µg/m³, Fair between 10–20 µg/m³, Moderate between 20–25 µg/m³, Poor between 25–50 µg/m³, Very Poor between 50–75 µg/m³, and Extremely Poor between 75–800 µg/m³.

Good

NO2

[?] NO₂ levels are considered Good at 0–40 µg/m³, Fair at 40–90 µg/m³, Moderate at 90–120 µg/m³, Poor at 120–230 µg/m³, Very Poor at 230–340 µg/m³, and Extremely Poor at 340–1000 µg/m³.

Good

SO2

[?] SO₂ levels indicate Good air quality at 0–100 µg/m³, Fair at 100–200 µg/m³, Moderate at 200–350 µg/m³, Poor at 350–500 µg/m³, Very Poor at 500–750 µg/m³, and Extremely Poor at 750–1250 µg/m³.

Good

O₃

[?] For O₃, the air is Good at 0–50 µg/m³, Fair at 50–100 µg/m³, Moderate at 100–130 µg/m³, Poor at 130–240 µg/m³, Very Poor at 240–380 µg/m³, and Extremely Poor at 380–800 µg/m³.

Fair

Air Quality Rating

[?] Based on PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, and ozone levels. Higher scores indicate cleaner air.

100

Air Quality Description

Catania, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, offers an air quality that is generally favorable for both expats and retirees, ensuring a comfortable living environment. The concentrations of particulate matter, including both PM10 and PM2.5, are within good levels, minimizing potential respiratory discomfort. Nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, pollutants primarily from industrial activities and vehicles, also remain low, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the air. However, ozone levels do loom in the fair category, suggesting some room for improvement on hotter days. Overall, Catania provides a breathable and pleasant atmosphere for its residents.

Catania, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, offers an air quality that is generally favorable for both expats and retirees, ensuring a comfortable living environment. The concentrations of particulate matter, including both PM10 and PM2.5, are within good levels, minimizing potential respiratory discomfort. Nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, pollutants primarily from industrial activities and vehicles, also remain low, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the air. However, ozone levels do loom in the fair category, suggesting some room for improvement on hotter days. Overall, Catania provides a breathable and pleasant atmosphere for its residents.

Town Descriptions

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Getting There

Catania is well-connected by air and rail. The nearest airport is Catania Fontanarossa, 8 minutes from the city center. Two train stations nearby offer robust connectivity, supported by good road access via the A18 and A19 highways, facilitating efficient travel to regional and national destinations.

Getting Around

Local Cuisine

Catania boasts a rich culinary scene heavily influenced by Sicilian traditions. Traditional dishes include arancini, pasta alla Norma, caponata, and involtini di pesce spada, reflecting the region’s reliance on fresh seafood and local produce. The city offers a diverse array of dining options, from casual street food to upscale restaurants, emphasizing Sicilian ingredients and flavors. Notable Michelin-starred establishments enhance the dining landscape with innovative cuisine, while various international dining options are also available, catering to diverse palates.

Shopping Overview

The shopping landscape features various categories, including supermarkets, local markets, and boutique stores. Major shopping streets host high-street and designer brands, while vibrant markets offer local produce and artisanal goods. Notable shopping centres include a large mall with a supermarket and diverse retail outlets, as well as another complex that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment options. This structure accommodates both international brands and local crafts, ensuring a broad shopping experience for residents and visitors alike.

Neighborhoods

Green Areas and Parks

Catania offers diverse outdoor activities, essential for retirees seeking tranquil and active lifestyles. Prominent green areas include the Giardino Bellini and the Botanical Garden, providing botanical exploration and leisurely strolls. The Natural Reserve “Oasis Simeto” and the Etna Regional Park offer extended hiking opportunities in natural landscapes. Lachea Island and La Timpa Natural Reserve present unique coastal experiences. These areas provide ample outdoor engagement options, suitable for individuals aiming to maintain active and healthy living conditions.

✅ Pros

– Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage throughout the town.
– Good healthcare quality with accessible medical facilities.
– Reliable public transportation options for easy commuting.
– High air quality ensures a healthy living environment.
– Integration opportunities within the local community are plentiful.
– Reasonable cost of living compared to larger cities.
– Vibrant local markets and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
– Beautiful landscapes and proximity to Mount Etna.
– Active expat community for social support and connections.

❌ Cons

– Higher unemployment rate than the national average is concerning.
– Limited educational facilities may not meet all expat needs.
– Public services can be slow and less efficient at times.
– Internet connectivity may lag in some residential areas.
– Tourist influx can disrupt local life during busy seasons.
– Infrastructure aging may lead to occasional maintenance issues.
– Limited recreational activities for those seeking varied entertainment.
– Local bureaucracy can be frustratingly slow and complex.
– Parking can be a challenge in busy areas.
– Some neighborhoods may lack the charm of historical center.

FAQs

Summary

Catania, located on Sicily’s eastern coast, is the island’s second-largest city and a vibrant hub for expats seeking a unique living experience. The city’s blend of Baroque architecture and active street culture is epitomized by Via Etnea, lined with shops and cafes. Notable attractions include Palazzo Biscari and Teatro Massimo Bellini, showcasing Catania’s rich historical tapestry. The local community passionately celebrates the festival of Saint Agata, marked by grand processions featuring intricately carved floats, reflecting deep cultural devotion.

Living in Catania entails being in proximity to Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, which can pose safety concerns due to its history of eruptions. Nonetheless, residents exhibit an admirable acceptance of such risks, intertwining their daily lives with a resilient spirit amidst the unpredictable nature. While the city offers excellent walkability and strong cultural traditions, potential bureaucratic delays and occasional administrative challenges warrant consideration for newcomers.

✅ Pros

– Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage throughout the town.
– Good healthcare quality with accessible medical facilities.
– Reliable public transportation options for easy commuting.
– High air quality ensures a healthy living environment.
– Integration opportunities within the local community are plentiful.
– Reasonable cost of living compared to larger cities.
– Vibrant local markets and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
– Beautiful landscapes and proximity to Mount Etna.
– Active expat community for social support and connections.

❌ Cons

– Higher unemployment rate than the national average is concerning.
– Limited educational facilities may not meet all expat needs.
– Public services can be slow and less efficient at times.
– Internet connectivity may lag in some residential areas.
– Tourist influx can disrupt local life during busy seasons.
– Infrastructure aging may lead to occasional maintenance issues.
– Limited recreational activities for those seeking varied entertainment.
– Local bureaucracy can be frustratingly slow and complex.
– Parking can be a challenge in busy areas.
– Some neighborhoods may lack the charm of historical center.

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