Elevation

[?] Elevation of a city refers to the height above sea level at which the city is located, measured in meters.
302

Population

[?] This is a town's official population, measured each year by the national statistics authority.
53500

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.
210100

Air Quality Rating

[?] Based on PM10, PM2.5, NO2, SO2, and ozone levels. Higher scores indicate cleaner air.
74

Region

Sicilia

Walkability

Car-Dependent

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)

173
/ 100

Climate Description

Mild winters, warm summers, abundant sunshine; moderate rain mainly in cooler months.

Modica

Sicilia

Renowned for Baroque architecture, chocolate production, agriculture, and cultural festivals; commuting challenges exist.

Quality of Life Score

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

71

Quality of Infrastructure

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

54

Quality of Economy

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

73

Summary

Modica, a charming town in Sicily, is renowned for its rich Baroque architecture and vibrant history. Located in the southeastern part of the island, it offers a temperate climate, historical landmarks like the Cathedral of San Giorgio, and a thriving local culture steeped in traditions such as chocolate making. The town’s industries predominantly involve agriculture and artisanal foods, attracting those interested in authentic Italian culinary experiences. Modica also boasts a variety of festivals that celebrate its cultural heritage.

However, challenges exist for foreign expats. The local bureaucracy can be cumbersome, and public transport is often unreliable, making personal vehicles necessary for daily commuting. Additionally, basic amenities such as shopping may require a drive, as the town’s walkability is limited. Expats might also face language barriers, as English is not widely spoken. These factors can affect the quintessential Sicilian lifestyle, but again, the town’s allure often lays in its distinct cultural character.

✅ Pros

– High-quality healthcare services available for residents.
– Mild climate ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Opportunities for integration into the local community.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
– Unique culinary experiences, especially famous chocolate.
– Scenic landscapes with stunning views and nature nearby.
– Moderate tourism ensures a balance of tranquility and activity.
– Accessible public transportation options for nearby travel.
– Growing digital infrastructure for reliable internet connectivity.

❌ Cons

– Limited job opportunities for newcomers not in tourism or agriculture.
– Air quality could be better for those with respiratory issues.
– Public transportation may not be as frequent as desired.
– Infrastructure improvements needed for smoother day-to-day activities.
– Digital infrastructure still developing; occasional connectivity hiccups expected.
– Language barrier might hinder full community integration.
– Hot summers; prepare for the heat—even gelato can’t help!
– Local shop hours vary; spontaneity can lead to disappointment.
– Educational facilities may not meet all international standards.
– Some may find the pace of life too slow.

Modica Demographics

Population

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

53500

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.

210100

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.

17700

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.

5581 out of 7901

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Closest Airport

Name

Catania Fontanarossa (Catania)

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

7

Driving Time

75min(s)

Catania Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) is situated in Sicily, Italy, and serves as a significant air travel hub in the Mediterranean. This airport facilitates connections to numerous European cities such as Rome, Munich, Amsterdam, and London, with key routes including Catania to Rome, one of Italy’s busiest. Notably, it accommodates low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air, making it accessible for budget travellers and providing direct flights to leisure destinations. Recent terminal expansions enhance passenger experience, although the airport experienced a temporary disruption in July 2023 due to a fire in the terminal.

2nd Closest Airport

Name

Tito Minniti (Reggio Calabria)

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

6

Driving Time

150min(s)

Reggio Calabria Airport, also known as Tito Minniti (IATA: REG), is located in the southern part of Calabria, Italy, approximately 7 km from Reggio Calabria city centre. As one of the busiest airports in Calabria, it offers regular flights within Italy to destinations like Milan Linate and Rome Fiumicino, and international seasonal services to Tirana. Known for serving as an access point for the Strait of Messina region, the airport connects travellers primarily through ITA Airways and Ryanair, catering to both domestic and select European routes.

3rd Closest Airport

Name

Falcone Borsellino (Palermo)

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby airport stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

9

Driving Time

173min(s)

Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO) is located in Cinisi, about 35 km northwest of Palermo, the capital of Sicily, Italy. It is the second largest airport on the island, handling over 8 million passengers annually. The airport primarily serves destinations across Europe and offers seasonal flights to New York City. Notable airlines include Aeroitalia, Ryanair, and Volotea, indicating a strong focus on budget-friendly travel options.

Closest Rail

Name

Stazione di Modica

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

5

Driving Time

10min(s)

Train service at Stazione di Modica comprises mainly regional trains, operated primarily by Trenitalia. The station is serviced by several key rail lines, connecting Modica to significant destinations.

### Rail Lines:
– **Ragusa Line**
– **Siracusa Line**
– **Catania Centrale Line**
– **Noto Line**
– **Pozzallo Line**

### Key Destinations:
– **Ragusa**: Approx. 21 minutes; 9 trains daily.
– **Siracusa**: Approx. 1 hour 38 minutes; 6 trains daily.
– **Catania Centrale**: Approx. 2 hours 57 minutes; 9 trains daily.
– **Noto**: Approx. 1 hour 1 minute; 6 trains daily.
– **Pozzallo**: Approx. 30 minutes; 6 trains daily.
– **Palermo**: Approx. 4 hours 42 minutes; 7 trains daily.

### Train Operators:
– **Trenitalia** (primary operator)
– **Italo**

### Frequency of Departures:
Trains depart frequently throughout the day, with intervals ranging from every 30 minutes to hourly, depending on the destination.

### Train Type:
The services primarily consist of regional trains with no high-speed trains available at this station, focusing on local and regional connectivity.

2nd Closest Rail

Name

Stazione di Rosolini

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

6

Driving Time

13min(s)

Train service at Stazione di Rosolini provides connections primarily through Trenitalia. The key destinations served include Siracusa, Catania, Ragusa, Catania Centrale, Noto, and Vittoria. Direct trains are available to these locations with the following details:

– **Rail lines that stop here**: Trenitalia regional services are the predominant lines stopping at Rosolini.
– **Key destinations connected by direct trains**:
– **Siracusa**: Approximately 51 minutes, 8 trains per day.
– **Catania**: Approximately 2 hours 4 minutes, 9 trains per day.
– **Ragusa**: Approximately 1 hour 12 minutes, 6 trains per day.
– **Catania Centrale**: Approximately 2 hours 4 minutes, 9 trains per day.
– **Noto**: Approximately 13 minutes, 8 trains per day.
– **Vittoria**: Approximately 1 hour 56 minutes, 5 trains per day.
– **Train operators**: Trenitalia is the sole operator providing services at this station.
– **Frequency of departures**: The frequency of departures varies by destination, typically ranging from 5 to 9 services per day.
– **Train types**: The services provided are regional only, with no high-speed trains available at this station.

3rd Closest Rail

Name

Stazione di Ispica

Connectivity Score

[?] Measures travel time and service quality of nearby rail stations. Higher scores mean better transport access.

6

Driving Time

15min(s)

Train service at Stazione di Ispica offers regional connections primarily on the Trenitalia network. The key rail lines that stop here connect Ispica to various destinations in Sicily.

**Key Destinations Connected by Direct Trains:**
– Siracusa
– Pozzallo
– Noto
– Ragusa
– Catania
– Rosolini

**Train Operators:**
– Trenitalia (regional services, with no high-speed options available).

**Frequency of Departures:**
– Generally, there are about 6 trains per day to destinations like Siracusa, Pozzallo, Noto, and Ragusa, with additional services to Catania (approximately 9 trains per day). Most of these routes operate with trains starting around 5:45 and the last trains leaving around 21:36.

**Type of Services:**
– The services available are regional only, with no high-speed trains departing from this station.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Within 10km

Auto Repair Shops

25

Bars

1

Cafes

2

Cinemas

1

Dentists

1

Golf Courses

0

Gyms

6

Health Clinics

3

Hiking Trails

20

Historical Sites

107

Libraries

4

Museums

3

Parks

19

Pharmacies

56

Restaurants

271

Shopping Centres

26

Supermarkets

81

Spas

74

Beach

Name

Spiaggia ''Macanuco''

Driving Distance

19mins

Water Quality Rating

1 - Excellent

Mountain Resort

Name

Etna Sud - Nicolosi

Driving Distance

103mins

Healthcare

Healthcare Score

[?] Evaluates hospital/clinic access, drive time to care, and regional quality rankings. Higher scores mean better healthcare.

94

Nearest Hospital Name

Maggiore

Drive Time to Nearest Hospital

9 minutes

Hospitals and Clinics Within 10km

12

Local Public Healthcare Provider

ASP RAGUSA

Healthcare Quality Description

In this area of Sicily, the local healthcare system presents an uneven performance landscape. While local hospital care faces challenges, rapid responses to bone fractures and prompt interventions in acute heart conditions suggest efficiency. Minimally invasive breast cancer surgeries and heart attack readmission rates underperform, indicating potential areas for improvement. However, shorter postoperative stays illustrate effective recovery processes. The overall healthcare quality in this region places the system just above the national median, reflecting a mixed capacity to address diverse medical needs. Prospective residents should weigh specific healthcare needs against these varying indicators.

Safety

Seismic Zone (risk of earthquakes)

[?] Official seismic zones classify areas based on earthquake risk.

High 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.

35

Percentage of Population at Landslide Risk

[?] Percentage of the population in high or moderate landslide risk zones. Higher values indicate greater environmental risk.

2

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.

96.514

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

531

Median

833

Third Quartile

1228

Connectivity & Digital Access

Walkability Description

Car-Dependent

Avg Download Speed (Mbps)

173

Fast Download Speed (Mbps)

231

Slow Download Speed (Mbps)

66

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.

Bottom 50%

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.

Bottom 30%

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

Exceptional (Top 10%)

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.

6.6

Max Annual Temperature (°C)

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

30.7

Climate Description

Modica experiences a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and warm, sunny summers. The town enjoys an abundant amount of sunshine throughout the year, ensuring clear skies for the majority of days. Precipitation is moderate and mostly confined to the cooler months, keeping the landscape lush without excessive rainfall. Despite its southern location, Modica witnesses a rare dusting of snow on occasion, adding a brief, enchanting contrast to its typically temperate setting. Ideal for retirees and expats looking for a comfortable climate year-round, Modica offers a serene environment with minimal temperature fluctuations, fostering enjoyable living and leisure conditions.

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.

Fair

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.

74

Air Quality Description

In Modica, Italy, residents enjoy generally good air quality. The concentrations of pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide remain low enough to be classified as good. Particularly noteworthy is the quality regarding more coarse particulate matter (PM10), which also falls into good territory. However, finer particles (PM2.5) and ozone levels present a fair rating, suggesting occasional periods where vulnerable groups might notice some impact, though generally manageable for most of the population. This backdrop contributes to a comfortable environment conducive to both long-term living and leisure, aligning with expectations for a serene retirement setting.

In Modica, Italy, residents enjoy generally good air quality. The concentrations of pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide remain low enough to be classified as good. Particularly noteworthy is the quality regarding more coarse particulate matter (PM10), which also falls into good territory. However, finer particles (PM2.5) and ozone levels present a fair rating, suggesting occasional periods where vulnerable groups might notice some impact, though generally manageable for most of the population. This backdrop contributes to a comfortable environment conducive to both long-term living and leisure, aligning with expectations for a serene retirement setting.

Town Descriptions

Getting There

Modica is accessible via the A18 highway, connecting it to Catania and Siracusa. The nearest airports are Catania Fontanarossa and Tito Minniti in Reggio Calabria. In addition, two train stations are located nearby, offering moderate connectivity. The town’s overall infrastructure rating is 54 out of 100.

Getting Around

Local Cuisine

Modica’s culinary scene is characterized by its rich tradition of local dishes and a variety of dining options. Notably, Modica is famous for its unique chocolate, known as the Chocolate of Modica, which is produced using ancient Aztec methods. Traditional Sicilian seafood dishes are prevalent in various establishments around the town, showcasing fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant scene offers a diverse array of options, from casual eateries serving rustic fare to sophisticated venues where chefs experiment with innovative interpretations of traditional cuisine. International influences are present, reflecting Sicily’s historical trading routes. Among the dining establishments, Accursio Ristorante stands out with its Michelin star, underscoring the high culinary standards in Modica. This restaurant brings together flavors from different regions of Sicily, offering guests a refined gastronomic experience. Overall, Modica’s culinary landscape is an engaging blend of tradition and modernity, appealing to both locals and international visitors.

Shopping Overview

The city offers a diverse shopping environment, categorised into historical boutiques, contemporary fashion outlets, supermarkets, and artisan shops. Notable areas include the commercial centre, housing department stores and shopping centres, while local markets provide fresh produce and regional delicacies. The main shopping street features a mix of designer stores and traditional culinary shops, showcasing local specialities such as chocolate. A variety of crafts and handmade souvenirs are available, particularly in the historical centre, benefiting tourists seeking authenticity.

Neighborhoods

Green Areas and Parks

Modica, located in Sicily, offers a variety of outdoor activities appealing to expats and retirees. Notable trails include the Cava dei Servi ring tour, a 7-kilometer route known for its accessibility, and the Catacomba della Larderia – Cava d’Ispica loop, which provides a more intermediate challenge over 5.68 kilometers. Additional trails such as the Castello dei Conti loop offer a scenic 8-kilometer exploration of the region’s historical architecture. These trails highlight Modica’s unique landscapes, combining natural beauty with cultural heritage. Moreover, the Parco Urbano Padre Basile serves as a central green area for leisurely outdoor enjoyment.

✅ Pros

– High-quality healthcare services available for residents.
– Mild climate ideal for year-round outdoor activities.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Opportunities for integration into the local community.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
– Unique culinary experiences, especially famous chocolate.
– Scenic landscapes with stunning views and nature nearby.
– Moderate tourism ensures a balance of tranquility and activity.
– Accessible public transportation options for nearby travel.
– Growing digital infrastructure for reliable internet connectivity.

❌ Cons

– Limited job opportunities for newcomers not in tourism or agriculture.
– Air quality could be better for those with respiratory issues.
– Public transportation may not be as frequent as desired.
– Infrastructure improvements needed for smoother day-to-day activities.
– Digital infrastructure still developing; occasional connectivity hiccups expected.
– Language barrier might hinder full community integration.
– Hot summers; prepare for the heat—even gelato can’t help!
– Local shop hours vary; spontaneity can lead to disappointment.
– Educational facilities may not meet all international standards.
– Some may find the pace of life too slow.

FAQs

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