La Spezia
Liguria

La Spezia

92,700 residents · 136,600 within 5 km · 1 m above sea level

94Quality of life
77Infrastructure
79Economy

What La Spezia is actually like

La Spezia, situated in the Liguria region of Italy, is a strategic gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre coastline. This vibrant town boasts a high walkability score, making it ideal for expats who prefer to navigate without a car. La Spezia is steeped in maritime history, evidenced by its bustling port and the Naval Museum, which draws those interested in Italy's naval traditions. The town's cultural calendar is enriched by various festivals and local markets that showcase artisanal crafts and regional cuisine, attracting retirees seeking a community-oriented lifestyle. Despite its many attractions, potential drawbacks include a limited local job market, particularly outside the tourism sector, and occasional congestion due to its coastal position. Nevertheless, the quality of healthcare and air is impressive, ensuring a comfortable environment, while excellent internet connectivity meets the needs of those working remotely. Expats can enjoy the charm of Italian life balanced with modern amenities in La Spezia.

How La Spezia is built

Mixed-fabric comune

Pre-war 47%Mid-century 44%Modern 9%
Settlement pattern
Compact
7% of homes scattered in the countryside
In town 93%Dispersed 7%
Condition
78%
Some wear — 22% needs work
Good / excellent 78%Poor / mediocre 22%
Occupancy
87%
Lived-in year-round — 13% holiday or vacant
Main homes 87%Holiday or vacant 13%
La SpeziaPitelliBiassaCarozzoPianazzaCampigliaMadonna di Buonviaggio
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 La Spezia

Closest matches in Liguria on quality of life, infrastructure and economy.

  • Sarzana — La Spezia · 21,800 residents
  • Genova — Genova · 564,100 residents
  • Arenzano — Genova · 11,200 residents
  • Rapallo — Genova · 29,500 residents
  • Chiavari — Genova · 27,500 residents
  • Lerici — La Spezia · 9,200 residents

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