Elevation
Population
Real Population (5km)
Air Quality Rating
Region
Walkability
Housing availability
Avg Download Speed (Mbps) / Avg Upload Speed (Mbps)
Climate Description
Porto Empedocle
Sicilia
Coastal town with historical ruins, a local fish market, and limited walkability for transport.
Quality of Life Score
74
Quality of Infrastructure
58
Quality of Economy
71
Summary
Porto Empedocle in Sicily offers a unique blend of coastal charm and cultural heritage, making it an intriguing option for expats and retirees. Situated near the southern coast, this small town is known for its striking views of the Mediterranean, with the nearest beach just a short distance away, boasting excellent water quality. Key attractions include the ancient ruins of the nearby Valley of the Temples, which reflect the region’s rich historical significance, and the local fish market, a vibrant hub of culinary culture.
Despite its appeal, Porto Empedocle faces challenges. Its walkability is limited, which may necessitate reliance on private transport. The town’s healthcare facilities may also not meet the expectations of those coming from more developed regions. Nevertheless, with a modest population and good air quality, it presents a serene lifestyle, underscored by traditional Sicilian customs and a slower pace of life, ideal for those seeking a tranquil retirement.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage throughout the town.
– Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Opportunities for integration into the local community.
– Proximity to beautiful Sicilian beaches and natural landscapes.
– Relatively low tourist presence for a peaceful environment.
– Access to local markets and traditional Italian cuisine.
– Scenic coastal views and picturesque surroundings.
– Engaging local festivals and traditions year-round.
– Growing healthcare facilities, ensuring necessary services available.
– Developing infrastructure supports everyday living needs.
❌ Cons
– Healthcare quality remains below average, limited options available.
– Transportation can be challenging, with few public options.
– Unemployment higher than national average; job opportunities scarce.
– Internet connectivity can be slow; buffering during your favorite shows.
– Infrastructure development needs improvement; some areas may be lacking.
– Limited educational facilities for families with children.
– Air quality just above the threshold; may affect sensitivities.
– Local economy ranks low; budget-conscious expats may struggle.
– Cultural events may not cater to all international tastes.
– Some might find the pace of life too slow.
Porto Empedocle Demographics
Population
15600
Real Population (5km band)
85300
Births Per 100 Deaths
70.0
Population Data Source
ISTAT,2023
Estimated Unemployment Rate
Touristy Index
Some Tourism
Income per capita (2023)
17000
Income rank in Italy (2023)
5990 out of 7901
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Closest Airport
Name
Catania Fontanarossa (Catania)
Connectivity Score
7
Driving Time
108min(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
Birgi (Trapani)
Connectivity Score
5
Driving Time
111min(s)
Trapani-Birgi Airport (Vincenzo Florio Airport) is situated between Trapani and Marsala, on the western coast of Sicily. It primarily serves as a low-cost hub with connections to various European destinations, including major cities such as Rome, Venice, and Naples. The airport is a key point for travellers heading to and from Sicily, offering both regular and seasonal routes mainly through Ryanair, with destinations including London, Manchester, and Milan, amongst others.
3rd Closest Airport
Name
Falcone Borsellino (Palermo)
Connectivity Score
9
Driving Time
114min(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 Porto Empedocle Centrale
Connectivity Score
3
Driving Time
9min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Porto Empedocle Centrale includes the following details:
– **Rail Lines**: The primary rail line serving the station is the one connecting Porto Empedocle to Agrigento.
– **Key Destinations**: Direct trains primarily connect Porto Empedocle with Agrigento Centrale. Services may also allow transfers to Palermo and other major destinations in Sicily.
– **Train Operators**: The main operator is Trenitalia, which runs regional services.
– **Frequency of Departures**: Trains to Agrigento generally run a few times per day, with specific schedules varying, often with departures approximately every 2 hours.
– **Train Types**: The station primarily serves regional trains, with no high-speed services directly available from this location.
2nd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Agrigento Centrale
Connectivity Score
5
Driving Time
16min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Agrigento Centrale includes several regional train services provided mainly by Trenitalia. The rail lines serving the station connect Agrigento with major cities such as Palermo and Caltanissetta. Direct trains to these destinations are relatively frequent, with the Palermo connection offering around 17 trains each day, taking approximately 2 hours to travel. The service has regional trains only, with no high-speed rail options currently available at the station. Departures typically occur hourly during peak times, with fewer services during off-peak hours.
3rd Closest Rail
Name
Stazione di Agrigento Bassa
Connectivity Score
6
Driving Time
17min(s)
Train service at Stazione di Agrigento Bassa includes regular connections primarily serviced by Trenitalia. The station is part of regional rail lines, with trains to prominent destinations such as Agrigento Centrale, Palermo Centrale, and Messina Centrale.
### Key Details:
– **Rail Lines**: The station mainly serves regional lines.
– **Key Destinations**:
– Agrigento Centrale (approx. 7 minutes, 17 trains per day)
– Palermo Centrale (approx. 1 hour 53 minutes, 15 trains per day)
– Messina Centrale (approx. 3 hours 52 minutes, 18 trains per day)
– Roccapalumba-Alia (approx. 53 minutes, 15 trains per day)
– Acquaviva-Casteltermini (approx. 30 minutes, 15 trains per day)
– Bagheria (approx. 1 hour 41 minutes, 15 trains per day)
– **Train Operators**: Primarily Trenitalia.
– **Frequency of Departures**: Services depart approximately every 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route.
– **Services Offered**: The station does not offer high-speed train services, focusing instead on regional and intercity connections.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Within 10km
Auto Repair Shops
79
Bars
62
Cafes
45
Cinemas
9
Dentists
18
Golf Courses
0
Gyms
8
Health Clinics
23
Hiking Trails
36
Historical Sites
112
Libraries
16
Museums
49
Parks
32
Pharmacies
21
Restaurants
274
Shopping Centres
30
Supermarkets
84
Spas
173
Beach
Name
Lido Marinella
Driving Distance
3mins
Water Quality Rating
1 - Excellent
Mountain Resort
Name
Piano Battaglia
Driving Distance
135mins
Healthcare
Healthcare Score
28
Nearest Hospital Name
San Giovanni di Dio
Drive Time to Nearest Hospital
20 minutes
Hospitals and Clinics Within 10km
3
Local Public Healthcare Provider
ASP AGRIGENTO
Healthcare Quality Description
In this area of Sicily, the health authority demonstrates high overall efficiency. However, the quality of local hospital care is considered low. Emergency responses to bone fractures are exceptionally prompt, while interventions for heart attacks within critical time frames perform slightly below the national median. Heart failure management shows above-average outcomes, whereas services for heart attack readmissions fall short. Minimally invasive breast cancer surgery is underutilised, and brief hospital stays post-operation are more common. Expats and retirees should evaluate these aspects to make informed decisions regarding healthcare services in the region.
Safety
Seismic Zone (risk of earthquakes)
Moderate Earthquake Risk
Road Accidents Rate per 10k Inhabitants
29
Percentage of Population at Landslide Risk
6
Percentage of Population at Flood Risk
5
Car Insurance Price Index
87.065
Housing & Property Market
Housing availability
Medium
Property Prices per m²
First Quartile
306
Median
656
Third Quartile
923
Connectivity & Digital Access
Walkability Description
Walker's Paradise
Avg Download Speed (Mbps)
138
Fast Download Speed (Mbps)
191
Slow Download Speed (Mbps)
61
Education
Avg Schools Ranking (All Criteria)
Bottom 30%
Avg Schools Ranking (Standardised Tests)
Bottom 30%
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porto Empedocle | 4 | 5 | 2 | 2 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 1 | N/A |
Climate & Weather
Precipitation
Very Low (Bottom 10%)
Sunshine
Exceptional (Top 10%)
Snowfall
Very Low (Bottom 10%)
Min Annual Temperature (°C)
8
Max Annual Temperature (°C)
30.6
Climate Description
Porto Empedocle, located on the southern coast of Italy, experiences a mild and amiable climate, catering well to retirees and expats seeking comfort throughout the year. Winters here are gentle, rarely seeing temperatures that drop steeply, which allows for year-round exploration and enjoyment of the outdoors. The town benefits from a substantial amount of sunlight, illuminating its historic streets and vibrant coastal activities. Summers are warm but not stifling, ideal for enjoying the local beaches and cuisine. Rainfall is moderate and does not generally disrupt daily life, with the skies predominantly clear and inviting. Snowfall is non-existent, further simplifying life for its residents.
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porto Empedocle | 8,00 | 8,00 | 9,50 | 11,90 | 14,60 | 18,70 | 21,30 | 21,90 | 19,90 | 17,00 | 13,40 | 9,40 |
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porto Empedocle | 14,1 | 14,30 | 16,40 | 19,40 | 22,60 | 27,60 | 30,50 | 30,60 | 27,00 | 23,40 | 19,10 | 15,50 |
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porto Empedocle | 59 | 52 | 62 | 67 | 76 | 83 | 88 | 85 | 72 | 56 | 49 | 64 |
Environmental & Air Quality
Classifications
PM10
Good
PM2.5
Good
NO2
Good
SO2
Good
O₃
Fair
Air Quality Rating
84
Air Quality Description
Porto Empedocle, Italy, offers an appealing air quality profile for residents and visitors alike. The PM10 and PM2.5 particles, commonly associated with dust and emissions, are well-contained, meeting ‘Good’ standards on health metrics. Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, often byproducts of industrial activity and vehicular traffic, are present in low concentrations, suggesting minimal exposure risks. However, the ozone levels in the area receive a ‘Fair’ rating—indicating occasional elevations that may warrant cautious attention for individuals sensitive to atmospheric changes. Overall, the air in Porto Empedocle tends to support a healthy outdoor lifestyle amidst its historical coastal charm.
Porto Empedocle, Italy, offers an appealing air quality profile for residents and visitors alike. The PM10 and PM2.5 particles, commonly associated with dust and emissions, are well-contained, meeting ‘Good’ standards on health metrics. Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, often byproducts of industrial activity and vehicular traffic, are present in low concentrations, suggesting minimal exposure risks. However, the ozone levels in the area receive a ‘Fair’ rating—indicating occasional elevations that may warrant cautious attention for individuals sensitive to atmospheric changes. Overall, the air in Porto Empedocle tends to support a healthy outdoor lifestyle amidst its historical coastal charm.
Town Descriptions
Getting There
Porto Empedocle is accessible via the SS115 and SS189 roads, linking it to nearby cities. The closest train stations, 9 and 16 minutes away, provide limited connectivity, with moderate infrastructure scores. Major airports are Catania Fontanarossa and Birgi, both over an hour’s drive from the town.
Getting Around
Local Cuisine
Porto Empedocle boasts a vibrant culinary scene rooted in traditional Sicilian cuisine, characterized by an abundance of seafood, fresh produce, and regional specialties. Key dishes include local pasta varieties and Caponata con pesce spada, a delicious eggplant dish made with swordfish. The dining landscape features a mix of family-run trattorias and modern eateries, catering to diverse tastes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. While primarily Italian and Mediterranean, the town also reflects international influences, especially from other Mediterranean regions. Notably, Porto Empedocle is home to a recognized Michelin-starred establishment, underscoring its commitment to fine dining and excellence in local gastronomy.
Shopping Overview
Shopping opportunities in the area include supermarkets, local markets, and various boutiques. The main retail activity centres around a street featuring a mix of grocery stores and specialty shops. Weekly markets provide fresh produce and local products. While larger malls are not predominant, the town’s harbour area boasts a concentration of amenities, with shops situated near cafes and eateries, catering to diverse needs. Such venues are accommodating for the expat and retiree communities, offering both convenience and local charm.
Neighborhoods
Green Areas and Parks
Porto Empedocle, located on the southern coast of Sicily, offers various outdoor activities and green spaces for both residents and visitors. Popular among these is the Torre Salsa Nature Reserve, featuring coastal trails and rare wildlife. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails around the area, as highlighted by platforms like Komoot and Wikiloc. Additionally, local sites such as Lido Azzurro and the Mini Zoo provide beach and park experiences. These activities are complemented by nature and wildlife tours that attract those interested in Sicily’s ecological and geological diversity.
✅ Pros
– Rich cultural and historical heritage throughout the town.
– Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Opportunities for integration into the local community.
– Proximity to beautiful Sicilian beaches and natural landscapes.
– Relatively low tourist presence for a peaceful environment.
– Access to local markets and traditional Italian cuisine.
– Scenic coastal views and picturesque surroundings.
– Engaging local festivals and traditions year-round.
– Growing healthcare facilities, ensuring necessary services available.
– Developing infrastructure supports everyday living needs.
❌ Cons
– Healthcare quality remains below average, limited options available.
– Transportation can be challenging, with few public options.
– Unemployment higher than national average; job opportunities scarce.
– Internet connectivity can be slow; buffering during your favorite shows.
– Infrastructure development needs improvement; some areas may be lacking.
– Limited educational facilities for families with children.
– Air quality just above the threshold; may affect sensitivities.
– Local economy ranks low; budget-conscious expats may struggle.
– Cultural events may not cater to all international tastes.
– Some might find the pace of life too slow.
FAQs
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