Cesena
Emilia-Romagna · Forlì-Cesena

Cesena

95,700 residents · 169,100 within 5 km · 543 m above sea level

90Quality of life
74Infrastructure
79Economy

What Cesena is actually like

Cesena, nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a quaint town with a rich culinary heritage and a vibrant cultural scene, making it attractive for expats and retirees. Known for its excellent healthcare services and a safe environment, Cesena offers a relaxed lifestyle underscored by the picturesque backdrop of the Apennines. Key attractions include the Malatesta Fortress, historic libraries, and a variety of local festivals celebrating its agricultural roots, particularly in cheese and wine production. While the town's efficient public transport may not rank highly, excellent cycling options provide alternatives for commuting and exploration. The proximity to sandy beaches, a short drive away, further enhances its appeal for those seeking leisure activities. However, expats should anticipate higher living costs, particularly in housing. Overall, Cesena balances cultural richness and community warmth, though its slower pace may require adjustment for some newcomers.

How Cesena is built

Post-war expanded comune

Pre-war 12%Mid-century 75%Modern 13%
Settlement pattern
Semi-dispersed
16% of homes scattered in the countryside
In town 84%Dispersed 16%
Condition
87%
Some wear — 13% needs work
Good / excellent 87%Poor / mediocre 13%
Occupancy
90%
Lived-in year-round — 10% holiday or vacant
Main homes 90%Holiday or vacant 10%
CesenaBorelloBulgarn=San CristoforoSant'Andrea In BagnoloSettecrociariCesuola-Rio Dell'Eremo
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 Cesena

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

  • Argenta — Ferrara · 21,200 residents
  • Carpi — Modena · 73,300 residents
  • Molinella — Bologna · 15,800 residents
  • Bagnacavallo — Ravenna · 16,500 residents
  • Faenza — Ravenna · 58,700 residents
  • Ravenna — Ravenna · 156,300 residents

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