Elevation
[?]
Elevation of a city refers to the height above sea level at which the city is located, measured in meters.
391
Population
[?]
This is a town's official population, measured each year by the national statistics authority.
59700
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.
94800
Air Quality Rating
[?]
Based on PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, and ozone levels. Higher scores indicate cleaner air.
90
Region
Basilicata
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)
209
/ 128
Climate Description
Mild winters, hot summers; sunny, moderate rain; ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
Matera
Basilicata
Renowned for cave dwellings and rupestrian churches, this town offers rich history and tourism growth.
Summary
Matera, located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is renowned for its remarkable cave dwellings known as the Sassi, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. With origins dating back over 9,000 years, Matera offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and culture. The juxtaposition of ancient stone structures and modern innovations creates an intriguing urban environment. Notable attractions include the beautifully carved rupestrian churches adorned with stunning frescoes and the labyrinthine streets that invite exploration. The local economy historically revolved around agriculture, but tourism has increasingly become vital, thanks to the city’s cultural significance and picturesque landscape. While the town boasts a high walkability score and excellent air quality, expats might find the healthcare system requires some adaptation when compared to larger urban centers. Matera’s charm lies in its unique characteristics, making it a compelling destination for retirees seeking a tranquil yet culturally rich lifestyle.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore and enjoy.
– Moderate tourism provides a peaceful living environment.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Good air quality for a healthier lifestyle.
– Low unemployment rate fosters economic stability.
– Opportunities for integration into local community activities.
– Access to quality healthcare services available in town.
– Mild climate suitable for year-round outdoor activities.
– Sufficient transportation options for regional travel.
– Internet connectivity supports remote work and communication needs.
❌ Cons
– Limited healthcare quality might raise concerns for some residents.
– Transportation options can be limited during off-peak hours.
– Cultural activities may not cater to all modern interests.
– Job opportunities in specialized fields are somewhat scarce.
– Internet speeds can be inconsistent in rural areas.
– Limited entertainment options may feel restrictive for some.
– Educational facilities could lack resources for advanced studies.
– Winters can be chillier than expected for some newcomers.
– Local bureaucracy might test your patience at times.
– Shopping choices may be limited compared to larger cities.
Matera Demographics
Population
[?]
This is a town's official population, measured each year by the national statistics authority.
59700
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.
94800
Births Per 100 Deaths
60.0
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.
Moderate 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.
21600
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.
3007 out of 7901
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Closest Airport
Name
Karol Wojtyla (Bari)
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
7
Driving Time
52min(s)
Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport is located approximately 8 kilometres northwest of Bari, Italy, and serves as a significant hub in the Puglia region. It handled over 6 million passengers in 2023, largely acting as a focus city for low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Volotea. The airport connects to numerous European cities, with main routes including destinations such as London, Paris, Milan, and Istanbul, and benefits from seasonal services to cities like New York and Vienna, marking it as a convenient base for both domestic and international travel.
2nd Closest Airport
Name
Papola Casale (Brindisi)
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
4
Driving Time
85min(s)
Papola Casale (Brindisi) Airport is located approximately 6 kilometres from Brindisi’s city centre in southern Italy. In 2023, it served over 3 million passengers, acting as a focus city for Ryanair with regular and seasonal flights connecting to destinations such as London, Milan, and Rome. Known for its dual role as a civilian airport and strategic military facility, it provides essential humanitarian services and supports regional travel, making it both an important transport hub and a vital strategic location.
3rd Closest Airport
Name
Salerno Costa d'Amalfi (Salerno)
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
4
Driving Time
109min(s)
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport is situated in Pontecagnano Faiano, Italy, and lies 20 kilometres from Salerno and 44 kilometres from the Amalfi Coast, closer than Naples. The airport, with a current runway of 2,000 meters, is gradually resuming services and targets full operations by 2026-2027. It offers seasonal flights to destinations like London, Milan, and resorts in North Africa and Greece, served by airlines including easyJet and British Airways, indicating a focus on leisure travel.
Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Matera Villa Longo
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
5
Driving Time
3min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Matera Villa Longo includes the following:
– **Rail Lines:** The primary rail line serving this station is operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL).
– **Key Destinations:** Direct trains from Matera Villa Longo connect to Matera Centrale, Bari, and other towns in the Apulia region.
– **Train Operators:** The main operator providing services from this station is Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL).
– **Frequency of Departures:** Trains normally depart every hour, particularly in the daytime during weekdays and weekends.
– **Types of Trains:** The service is primarily regional, as there are no high-speed trains available at this station.
2nd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Matera Serra Rifusa
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
4
Driving Time
3min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Matera Serra Rifusa is operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane. The main rail line that stops at this station connects Matera with Bari, among other destinations. Key destinations include Bari, with direct services available. The frequency of departures is relatively low, with trains running a few times a day. The station is primarily served by regional trains, as it does not have high-speed train services. Therefore, the service is regional only, catering primarily to local and surrounding areas.
3rd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Matera Centrale
Connectivity Score
[?]
Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.
4
Driving Time
6min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Matera Centrale includes the following:
– **Rail Lines**: The primary rail line serving the station is the Bari-Altamura-Matera line operated by Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL).
– **Key Destinations**: Direct train services connect Matera with Altamura and Bari Centrale.
– **Train Operators**: The main operator is Ferrovie Appulo Lucane, a regional operator.
– **Frequency of Departures**: There are several regional trains to Altamura and Bari Centrale, though specific departure frequencies are not detailed.
– **Train Types**: The station services narrow gauge trains (950 mm) and is primarily focused on regional services. There are no high-speed train services available at this station, as the lines are not electrified and designed for regional traffic only.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Within 10km
Auto Repair Shops
7
Bars
100
Cafes
34
Cinemas
8
Dentists
18
Golf Courses
0
Gyms
23
Health Clinics
57
Hiking Trails
40
Historical Sites
148
Libraries
15
Museums
22
Parks
35
Pharmacies
26
Restaurants
152
Shopping Centres
12
Supermarkets
29
Spas
26
Beach
Name
Foce Bradano - 150 Mt. Margine Sud
Driving Distance
51mins
Water Quality Rating
1 - Excellent
Mountain Resort
Name
Sellata
Driving Distance
92mins
Healthcare
Healthcare Score
[?]
Evaluates hospital/clinic access, drive time to care, and regional quality rankings. Higher scores mean better healthcare.
4
Nearest Hospital Name
Madonna delle Grazie-P. Soccor
Drive Time to Nearest Hospital
10 minutes
Hospitals and Clinics Within 10km
12
Local Public Healthcare Provider
AZIENDA SANITARIA LOCALE DI MATERA ASM
Healthcare Quality Description
In this area of Basilicata, healthcare provision presents significant challenges. The local health authority shows limited effectiveness, particularly in hospital care. Post-heart attack readmission rates outperform other indicators, though still modest. Prompt treatment for bone fractures and timely heart attack interventions fall significantly short of expectations. Minimally invasive surgeries for breast cancer and post-operative recovery times also reflect a need for improvement. Despite these challenges, heart failure readmission rates suggest some strengths. Overall, expats and retirees may wish to evaluate healthcare quality carefully when considering this region as a residence.
Safety
Seismic Zone (risk of earthquakes)
[?]
Official seismic zones classify areas based on earthquake risk.
Moderate to Low Earthquake Risk
Road Accidents Rate per 10k Inhabitants
[?]
Calculation of road accidents per 10,000 people based on the number of deaths and injuries registered in roads for year 2022 for the city.
15
Percentage of Population at Landslide Risk
[?] Percentage of the population in high or moderate landslide risk zones. Higher values indicate greater environmental risk.
0
Percentage of Population at Flood Risk
[?] Percentage of the population in high or moderate flood risk zones. Higher values indicate greater environmental risk.
0
Car Insurance Price Index
[?]
The car insurance price index is a measure of how a city's average car insurance premium compares to the national average,
expressed as a percentage. A value of 100 indicates that the city's premium is equal to the national average.
Values above 100 show higher premiums, while values below 100 show lower premiums.
94.489
Housing & Property Market
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
Property Prices per m²
[?]
Calculation of property sale prices per square meter for apartments, houses in the city.
Median (50th Percentile): The midpoint price, where half the values are above and half below.
First Quartile (25th Percentile): The price below which 25% of properties fall.
Third Quartile (75th Percentile): The price below which 75% of properties fall.
First Quartile
1452
Median
1857
Third Quartile
2420
Connectivity & Digital Access
Walkability Description
Walker's Paradise
Education
Avg Schools Ranking (All Criteria)
[?]
This ranking shows in which decile the town's public schools fall while looking at all the indicators provided by the Italian Ministry of Education for the most recent available year. Note that figures are only provided by the ministry at the school catchment area level, and therefore several schools may be grouped together.
Top 10%
Avg Schools Ranking (Standardised Tests)
[?]
This ranking shows in which decile the town's public schools fall while looking the students' results in national standardised tests. The data is provided by the Italian Ministry of Education for the most recent available year.
Top 20%
Counts of School
Climate & Weather
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.
Very Low (Bottom 10%)
Sunshine
Very High (81st-90th percentile)
Snowfall
Low (11th-20th percentile)
Climate Description
Matera enjoys a climate that balances sunshine with moderate rainfall. The city experiences mild winters with light snowfall and hot summers, typical of its Southern Italian location. Days are predominantly sunny, allowing plenty of natural light, which enhances its ancient stone settlements and landscapes. The warmth peaks mid-year, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape colder climates, while winters remain gentle with rare frosts. This hospitable climate supports outdoor activities year-round, appealing to expats and retirees who favor a blend of historical charm and conducive weather in their choice of residence.
Annual Temperature Chart (Min)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Annual Temperature Chart (Max)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Sunny Days By Month
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Environmental & Air Quality
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.
90
Air Quality Description
In Matera, Italy, the air quality largely presents a breathing environment that supports well-being, particularly favorable for expatriates and retirees considering relocating. The ambiance of this historic town is complemented by mostly good levels of common pollutants, including particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. Ozone levels, while slightly elevated, generally pose moderate concern and are manageable within daily life activities. Residents and visitors alike can appreciate a clean air profile facilitating outdoor and social activities in Matera’s picturesque settings, preserving both health and the rich cultural tapestry that defines this renowned location. This serene environment supports a relaxed lifestyle pivotal to Matera’s charm.
In Matera, Italy, the air quality largely presents a breathing environment that supports well-being, particularly favorable for expatriates and retirees considering relocating. The ambiance of this historic town is complemented by mostly good levels of common pollutants, including particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. Ozone levels, while slightly elevated, generally pose moderate concern and are manageable within daily life activities. Residents and visitors alike can appreciate a clean air profile facilitating outdoor and social activities in Matera’s picturesque settings, preserving both health and the rich cultural tapestry that defines this renowned location. This serene environment supports a relaxed lifestyle pivotal to Matera’s charm.
Town Descriptions
Getting There
Matera is accessible via the A14 and A16 motorways, linking it to major cities. The nearest airports are Karol Wojtyla in Bari and Papola Casale in Brindisi. Train connections are limited, with two nearby stations receiving moderate connectivity scores.
Getting Around
Local Cuisine
Matera’s culinary scene is rich in tradition, prominently featuring signature dishes such as Pane di Matera, a sourdough bread made from local durum wheat, which serves as a staple across the region. Other traditional dishes include Cialledda (a bread salad), Pignata (lamb or mutton slow-cooked in a clay pot), Fave e Cicorie (mashed fava beans with chicory), and the legume and grain stew Crapiata, often prepared during harvest time. The local fare is complemented by Focaccia and the sweet Peperoni Cruschi, fried to a crunchy texture. Alongside its traditional offerings, Matera’s dining landscape has expanded to include international influences, with various options ranging from Italian seafood to contemporary cuisine. Notably, the town is home to the Michelin-starred Vitantonio Lombardo Ristorante, marking a significant milestone in its culinary history.
Shopping Overview
Shopping options encompass a variety of categories, including supermarkets for everyday needs, high-end boutiques featuring fashionable clothing, and craftsman shops that offer locally made artisanal goods. There are lively shopping areas filled with clothing and accessory shops catering to various tastes. In addition to individual stores, markets present opportunities to explore local food products, ceramics, and souvenirs, while larger shopping venues accommodate a wider selection of goods. Overall, the shopping landscape offers a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary retail options.
Neighborhoods
Green Areas and Parks
Matera, in the Basilicata region, offers various green areas and outdoor activities suitable for expats and retirees. The renowned Parco della Murgia Materana features multiple hiking trails, including the Belvedere Murgia Timone Viewpoint via the Tibetan Suspension Bridge, offering a moderately challenging route, and the easier Cave di Murgia trail. For those interested in more extended hikes, the Via Peuceta from Picciano to Matera spans over 18 miles. The region’s outdoor offerings are diverse, catering to different levels of ability and interest, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore and enjoy.
– Moderate tourism provides a peaceful living environment.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Good air quality for a healthier lifestyle.
– Low unemployment rate fosters economic stability.
– Opportunities for integration into local community activities.
– Access to quality healthcare services available in town.
– Mild climate suitable for year-round outdoor activities.
– Sufficient transportation options for regional travel.
– Internet connectivity supports remote work and communication needs.
❌ Cons
– Limited healthcare quality might raise concerns for some residents.
– Transportation options can be limited during off-peak hours.
– Cultural activities may not cater to all modern interests.
– Job opportunities in specialized fields are somewhat scarce.
– Internet speeds can be inconsistent in rural areas.
– Limited entertainment options may feel restrictive for some.
– Educational facilities could lack resources for advanced studies.
– Winters can be chillier than expected for some newcomers.
– Local bureaucracy might test your patience at times.
– Shopping choices may be limited compared to larger cities.
FAQs
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