Elevation
Population
Real Population (5km)
Air Quality Rating
Region
Walkability
Housing availability
Avg Download Speed (Mbps) / Avg Upload Speed (Mbps)
Climate Description
Pistoia
Toscana
Historic town with medieval architecture, accessible to Florence, strong horticulture and ceramics industries.
Quality of Life Score
78
Quality of Infrastructure
70
Quality of Economy
81
Summary
Pistoia, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, offers a compelling blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. This vibrant town, known for its exquisite architecture and rich artistic heritage, is conveniently located just 27 minutes from Florence, making it an easily accessible base for expatriates. Pistoia’s allure lies in its well-preserved medieval structures, such as the stunning Cathedral of San Zeno and the picturesque Piazza della Sala, alongside a dynamic local market scene.
While the town boasts a high walkability score, encouraging exploration on foot, it faces challenges typical of smaller urban centers, including limited healthcare options and occasional congestion in the historic areas. Nonetheless, the local industries, particularly in horticulture and ceramics, reflect longstanding traditions that enhance the community’s character. With excellent air quality and robust internet connectivity, Pistoia presents a practical choice for retirees seeking a culturally rich lifestyle amid Tuscany’s enchanting landscapes.
✅ Pros
– High air quality and pleasant climate year-round.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Affordable living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Low unemployment rate promoting local job opportunities.
– Good healthcare facilities and access for residents.
– Well-connected transportation networks for easy travel.
– Quiet town atmosphere, less tourist congestion.
– Opportunities for community integration and local friendships.
– Attractive surrounding landscapes and nature activities.
❌ Cons
– Limited nightlife options for socializing after dark.
– Smaller selection of international cuisine compared to larger cities.
– Healthcare quality could be improved for better services.
– Internet speeds may not meet all remote work needs.
– Less educational facilities for higher learning opportunities.
– Public transportation can be infrequent during off-peak hours.
– Limited expat community may hinder social integration.
– Local dialect may pose communication challenges for newcomers.
– Cultural events may not appeal to all tastes.
– Not a bustling city, which may feel too quiet for some.
Pistoia Demographics
Population
89100
Real Population (5km band)
178100
Births Per 100 Deaths
40.0
Population Data Source
ISTAT,2023
Estimated Unemployment Rate
Touristy Index
Not Touristic
Income per capita (2023)
23000
Income rank in Italy (2023)
1754 out of 7901
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Closest Airport
Name
Amerigo Vespucci (Florence)
Connectivity Score
6
Driving Time
27min(s)
Amerigo Vespucci Airport, also known as Florence Airport, is situated near Florence, Italy, serving as an essential international gateway in the Tuscany region. It handles over 3 million passengers annually, offering connectivity to a variety of European destinations such as London, Paris, Amsterdam, and more, with seasonal routes to cities like Lyon and Olbia. As a focus city for airlines such as Vueling and Volotea, the airport is well connected through a light-rail link and buses to central Florence, making it accessible for travellers exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings.
2nd Closest Airport
Name
Galileo Galilei (Pisa)
Connectivity Score
7
Driving Time
43min(s)
Galileo Galilei Airport, situated in Pisa, Italy, is the 10th busiest airport in the country, having served over 5 million passengers in 2023. It operates as a focus city for Ryanair and provides connections mainly across Europe, with notable destinations including London, Paris, and Amsterdam. The airport is known for its budget-friendly options, with a single terminal providing both domestic and international flights, and is conveniently linked to Pisa Centrale railway station via the Pisa Mover shuttle service.
3rd Closest Airport
Name
Guglielmo Marconi (Bologna)
Connectivity Score
7
Driving Time
60min(s)
Guglielmo Marconi Airport, located in Bologna, Italy, approximately 6 km from the city centre, serves as a vital transport hub in the Emilia-Romagna region. With nearly 10 million passengers in 2023, it ranks among Italy’s busier airports, connecting travellers to over 100 destinations, including major cities like Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Dubai. Key routes facilitated by airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air include domestic flights to Catania and international connections to Tirana and Madrid, with the longest direct route being to Dubai. The airport’s connectivity is enhanced by a monorail to Bologna Central Station, making it easily accessible for both domestic and international travellers.
Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Valdibrana
Connectivity Score
4
Driving Time
4min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Valdibrana is provided on the Pistoia-Porretta line. It connects to key destinations such as Pistoia and Porretta Terme, with trains primarily operated by Trenitalia. Departures from Valdibrana occur roughly every hour. The station features mainly regional services, with no high-speed trains operating through this station.
2nd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Corbezzi
Connectivity Score
4
Driving Time
10min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Corbezzi includes several rail lines operated predominantly by Trenitalia. Key destinations that are directly connected by train include Pistoia (approximately 17 minutes travel time), Porretta Terme (approximately 29 minutes), and Bologna Borgo Panigale (approximately 9 hours). There are about six trains per day to each of these destinations. In terms of frequency, trains operate roughly every two to four hours, with notable variations depending on the route. The station primarily accommodates regional trains, and while high-speed services are not specifically detailed, the majority of routes are regional only.
3rd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Pistoia Ovest
Connectivity Score
7
Driving Time
13min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Pistoia Ovest includes several regional train lines. Key destinations connected by direct trains from the station are Florence, Montecatini Terme-Monsummano, Pistoia, Bologna Centrale, Firenze Rifredi, and Rome Fiumicino Airport. The primary operator of these services is Trenitalia, with some connections also offered by Italo for long-distance journeys. Train departures typically occur at a frequency of about 10-12 times per day to major destinations such as Florence and Bologna. The station offers regional train services primarily, with limited high-speed options available for certain routes, ensuring a mix of travel speeds depending on the destination.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Within 10km
Auto Repair Shops
47
Bars
64
Cafes
32
Cinemas
14
Dentists
58
Golf Courses
3
Gyms
59
Health Clinics
81
Hiking Trails
21
Historical Sites
290
Libraries
9
Museums
35
Parks
47
Pharmacies
34
Restaurants
105
Shopping Centres
24
Supermarkets
90
Spas
30
Beach
Name
Renai - Lotto 1
Driving Distance
42mins
Water Quality Rating
1 - Excellent
Mountain Resort
Name
Corno alle Scale - Lizzano in Belvedere
Driving Distance
70mins
Healthcare
Healthcare Score
46
Nearest Hospital Name
Ospedale San Jacopo
Drive Time to Nearest Hospital
11 minutes
Hospitals and Clinics Within 10km
25
Local Public Healthcare Provider
AZIENDA USL TOSCANA CENTRO
Healthcare Quality Description
In this area of Tuscany, the local health services perform commendably against national standards across various indicators. The overall healthcare quality is notably high, while local hospital care is more moderate. Heart attack readmissions are efficiently managed, contrasting with slower response times for bone fracture treatments. Breast cancer surgery increasingly utilises minimally invasive techniques, and post-operative stays are generally brief. Response to acute myocardial infarction could improve, and readmissions after heart failure are close to average. These factors collectively provide a mixed yet promising healthcare landscape relevant for those evaluating a move to the region.
Safety
Seismic Zone (risk of earthquakes)
Moderate Earthquake Risk
Road Accidents Rate per 10k Inhabitants
18
Percentage of Population at Landslide Risk
16
Percentage of Population at Flood Risk
46
Car Insurance Price Index
130.935
Housing & Property Market
Housing availability
High
Property Prices per m²
First Quartile
1264
Median
1813
Third Quartile
2220
Connectivity & Digital Access
Walkability Description
Walker's Paradise
Avg Download Speed (Mbps)
96
Fast Download Speed (Mbps)
139
Slow Download Speed (Mbps)
35
Education
Avg Schools Ranking (All Criteria)
Bottom 50%
Avg Schools Ranking (Standardised Tests)
Top 50%
Counts of School
Town/City | Primary Schools | Kindergartens | Comprehensive Schools | Medium High Schools | Scientific High Schools | Technical Commercial Schools | Classical High Schools | Industrial Technical Schools | Higher Education Institutes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pistoia | 24 | 17 | 6 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | N/A |
Climate & Weather
Precipitation
Average (41st-50th percentile)
Sunshine
Above Average (51st-60th percentile)
Snowfall
Somewhat Low (21st-30th percentile)
Min Annual Temperature (°C)
1.6
Max Annual Temperature (°C)
29.8
Climate Description
Pistoia, situated in northern Italy, features a climate that balances cool winters with warm summers comfortably. The town sees a fair amount of rainfall distributed throughout the year, ensuring lush, vibrant landscapes. Sunlight in Pistoia is ample, providing residents and visitors with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in clear weather. The winter months occasionally bring light snowfall, adding a picturesque quality to the area's medieval architecture and gardens. Temperature variations offer a pleasant range, from cool to moderately hot, which supports diverse local flora and enhances the town's appeal for those seeking a temperate European climate.
Annual Temperature Chart (Min)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Min Temp Jan | Min Temp Feb | Min Temp Mar | Min Temp Apr | Min Temp May | Min Temp Jun | Min Temp Jul | Min Temp Aug | Min Temp Sep | Min Temp Oct | Min Temp Nov | Min Temp Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pistoia | 1,60 | 2,00 | 5,00 | 8,20 | 11,30 | 16,10 | 18,80 | 18,70 | 15,20 | 11,40 | 7,20 | 2,70 |
Annual Temperature Chart (Max)
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Max Temp Jan | Max Temp Feb | Max Temp Mar | Max Temp Apr | Max Temp May | Max Temp Jun | Max Temp Jul | Max Temp Aug | Max Temp Sep | Max Temp Oct | Max Temp Nov | Max Temp Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pistoia | 9,2 | 10,00 | 14,10 | 18,40 | 21,20 | 26,60 | 29,60 | 29,80 | 25,00 | 19,60 | 14,20 | 10,50 |
Sunny Days By Month
Climate data provided by Open Meteo, based on 2010–2022 averages.
Town | Sunny Days % Jan | Sunny Days % Feb | Sunny Days % Mar | Sunny Days % Apr | Sunny Days % May | Sunny Days % Jun | Sunny Days % Jul | Sunny Days % Aug | Sunny Days % Sep | Sunny Days % Oct | Sunny Days % Nov | Sunny Days % Dec |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pistoia | 45 | 38 | 49 | 51 | 56 | 67 | 73 | 73 | 60 | 45 | 33 | 44 |
Environmental & Air Quality
Classifications
PM10
Good
PM2.5
Good
NO2
Good
SO2
Good
O₃
Fair
Air Quality Rating
90
Air Quality Description
Pistoia, nestled in the heart of Italy, offers an appealing environment for those considering a serene retirement lifestyle. The town’s air is predominantly clean, with particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide levels consistently rated good. While all major pollutants fall within satisfactory limits, ozone levels occasionally tip into fair territory, reflecting seasonal variations typical to the region. This establishes Pistoia as a viable choice for expatriates prioritizing healthful living, amidst its rich historical tapestry and vibrant local culture. The air quality here supports outdoor activities, from casual strolls in its lush gardens to more vigorous pursuits in the surrounding Tuscan landscape.
Pistoia, nestled in the heart of Italy, offers an appealing environment for those considering a serene retirement lifestyle. The town’s air is predominantly clean, with particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide levels consistently rated good. While all major pollutants fall within satisfactory limits, ozone levels occasionally tip into fair territory, reflecting seasonal variations typical to the region. This establishes Pistoia as a viable choice for expatriates prioritizing healthful living, amidst its rich historical tapestry and vibrant local culture. The air quality here supports outdoor activities, from casual strolls in its lush gardens to more vigorous pursuits in the surrounding Tuscan landscape.
Town Descriptions
Getting There
Pistoia benefits from proximity to Florence’s Amerigo Vespucci Airport and Pisa’s Galileo Galilei Airport, providing essential air connectivity. The town is served by two train stations, both providing basic rail services. Major roads include the A11 motorway, facilitating regional travel and access to nearby cities.
Getting Around
Local Cuisine
Pistoia, situated in Tuscany, boasts a rich culinary scene marked by traditional dishes and a variety of dining options. The local cuisine is characterized by dishes such as Castagnaccio (a chestnut cake), necci (chestnut flour pancakes), and Maccheroni sull’anatra (Macaroni with duck ragout). Other notable dishes include Carcerato, a soup with stale bread and veal entrails, and seasonal offerings like Pappa col pomodoro, a bread and tomato soup. The region also emphasizes ‘cucina povera’, featuring simple yet flavorful dishes utilizing local vegetables. The dining options in Pistoia reflect both local traditions and international influences, with popular dining spots in pedestrianized squares offering diverse choices from Italian classics like pasta and pizza to international options. Notably, Pistoia is recognized for its Slow Food movement and has a vibrant café culture centered around wine bars and casual eateries. As for Michelin-starred venues, Pistoia is home to one Michelin-starred restaurant, enhancing its reputation as a culinary destination.
Shopping Overview
Shopping options in the area are diverse and cater to various needs. The main shopping streets, including Via Cavour and Via Orafi, feature a mix of clothing and leather boutiques. Supermarkets provide essential groceries, while bustling markets in Piazza del Duomo and Piazza della Sala offer local produce and goods. Additionally, larger shopping centres are accessible nearby, enhancing the retail experience with a variety of national and international brands.
Neighborhoods
Green Areas and Parks
Pistoia offers various green spaces and outdoor activities. The Giardino Zoologico di Pistoia is a notable zoological garden featuring a diverse collection of animals. For art enthusiasts, Villa Celle hosts a unique fusion of modern art within a park setting. Hikers can explore the Parco Avventura Doganaccia, which provides activities such as zip lining among tree canopies, while the Parco delle Terme di Montecatini offers rejuvenation through its thermal spas. Additionally, Il Cammino di San Jacopo is a popular hiking trail reflecting the area’s rich religious heritage, integrating cultural exploration with physical activity.
✅ Pros
– High air quality and pleasant climate year-round.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Affordable living compared to larger Italian cities.
– Low unemployment rate promoting local job opportunities.
– Good healthcare facilities and access for residents.
– Well-connected transportation networks for easy travel.
– Quiet town atmosphere, less tourist congestion.
– Opportunities for community integration and local friendships.
– Attractive surrounding landscapes and nature activities.
❌ Cons
– Limited nightlife options for socializing after dark.
– Smaller selection of international cuisine compared to larger cities.
– Healthcare quality could be improved for better services.
– Internet speeds may not meet all remote work needs.
– Less educational facilities for higher learning opportunities.
– Public transportation can be infrequent during off-peak hours.
– Limited expat community may hinder social integration.
– Local dialect may pose communication challenges for newcomers.
– Cultural events may not appeal to all tastes.
– Not a bustling city, which may feel too quiet for some.
FAQs
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