Calabria · Reggio Calabria · Italy
Cittanova
Moderate climate, pedestrian-friendly streets, lively festivals, diverse culinary offerings, budget-friendly housing, fewer amenities.
At a glance
About Cittanova
Cittanova, located in Calabria, combines traditional Italian culture with contemporary conveniences, making it appealing to expatriates and retirees alike. The climate is moderate, featuring hot, dry summers and mild winters, with residents enjoying close to 345 sunny days annually. The town is known for its excellent walkability, allowing easy exploration of its picturesque streets. Key attractions include lively local festivals and a diverse culinary scene rich in southern Italian delicacies.
Though Cittanova offers budget-friendly housing and a welcoming atmosphere, expatriates may encounter hurdles such as limited healthcare options and sporadic petty crime. The town’s compact size nurtures a tight-knit community, although newcomers might notice a scarcity of amenities compared to larger urban centers. Additionally, internet connectivity is satisfactory, facilitating remote working opportunities. In summary, Cittanova provides a distinct chance for those desiring a peaceful lifestyle in a culturally vibrant environment.
✓ Pros for expats
– Enjoyable Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers.
– Abundant cultural and historical heritage to discover and appreciate.
– Opportunities for local integration and community engagement.
– Less touristy atmosphere, providing an authentic Italian lifestyle experience.
– Generally good air quality for outdoor engagements and health.
– Basic healthcare services available, though improvement is needed.
– Transportation options accessible for visiting nearby cities and regions.
– Cost of living is affordable compared to larger Italian cities.
– Tranquil environment, perfect for retirees seeking peace.
– Local markets offering fresh produce and genuine cuisine.
! Things to consider
– Healthcare quality may lack sufficient options to meet needs.
– Unemployment rates are higher than the national average, raising job market concerns.
– Infrastructure development is slower compared to larger Italian cities and towns.
– Internet speeds may lead to buffering during important video calls.
– Public transport may not be as reliable as anticipated.
– Educational facilities might not fulfill all expat family requirements.
– Fewer amenities compared to larger urban settings.
– Limited entertainment options for social enthusiasts and night owls.
– Seasonal tourism may disrupt the tranquility of the town.
– Language differences could pose challenges for newcomers in terms of integration.
Where is Cittanova
Getting there
Cittanova, Calabria, is primarily accessible via the SS18 and A2 highways, which enable connections to nearby airports in Lamezia Terme and Reggio Calabria. The town is within a short 30-minute distance from train stations, offering moderate rail connectivity, although the overall infrastructure is considered below average.
Housing & cost of living
Estimated cost of an 80 m² home: €34,080
Housing availability: Low
Cost of living
Cittanova presents a low-cost living environment, making it ideal for expatriates in search of an affordable lifestyle. While the local income levels are relatively low and the unemployment rate is slightly above the national average, residents might experience some economic pressure. Nonetheless, housing expenses are quite reasonable, enabling newcomers to find accommodations without significant financial burden. The town’s economic rating reflects moderate stability and potential opportunities, balancing affordability with economic prospects. In summary, Cittanova offers a practical choice for those prioritizing budget-friendly living within modest economic conditions.
Climate & weather
High (71st-80th percentile)
Low (11th-20th percentile)
Below Average (31st-40th percentile)
Very High (81st-90th percentile)
Cittanova, Italy, features a harmonious climate that is perfect for individuals who appreciate mild weather throughout the year. The town sees minimal snowfall, showcasing its mainly temperate conditions, which are ideal for retirees looking for less taxing environments or expatriates coming from more extreme climates. Cittanova enjoys plenty of sunshine, ensuring most days are bright and enhancing outdoor and social interactions essential for a lively community life. Winters are typically mild, while summers are comfortably warm without severe highs, making Cittanova an appealing destination for those eager to spend their time in a moderate climate that promotes both relaxation and recreational activities.
Air quality & environment
Air quality rating: ★★★★★
Cittanova, Italy, is characterized by notably clean air, primarily attributed to its favorable atmospheric conditions and effective environmental regulations. Levels of particulate matter, both PM10 and PM2.5, are registered in the good category, highlighting the town's dedication to preserving a breathable environment that supports health and vitality. Levels of nitrogen and sulfur dioxide are also comfortably low, contributing to the overall pleasant air quality. Ozone levels remain moderate yet still allow for outdoor activities without worry. This combination makes Cittanova an appealing choice for expatriates and retirees seeking a location with a pleasant climate and minimal pollution.
Healthcare & safety
Road accidents: 16.0 per 10k inhabitants.
ASP Reggio Calabria oversees the healthcare in Reggio Calabria province which includes Reggio city, the Aspromonte, the Costa Viola, Locri, and the Ionian Calabrian coast. The composite score stands at 47/100, which is below the median. The profile is balanced. The interior of Aspromonte faces lengthy transfer times, but coastal corridors are relatively close to the hospital in Reggio. For those residing along the southern Tyrrhenian Calabrian coast, options across the Strait into Messina are sometimes utilized.
Internet & connectivity
Transport & proximity
✈️ Airports
| Airport | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Lamezia Terme (Lamezia) | 47 min | 5 |
| Tito Minniti (Reggio Calabria) | 54 min | 6 |
| Sant'Anna (Crotone) | 113 min | 4 |
🚂 Rail stations
| Station | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Rosarno | 22 min | 7 |
| Gioia Tauro | 25 min | 7 |
| Nicotera | 34 min | 6 |
What's nearby
Life in Cittanova
Local cuisine
Cittanova, positioned in the heart of Calabria, showcases a culinary scene rich in tradition and flavors, focusing on local ingredients and age-old techniques. Signature dishes include Pasta ca Muddica, a local favorite made with anchovies and breadcrumbs, and eggplant parmigiana, highlighting the region’s emphasis on vegetables and seafood. The renowned ‘Nduja, a spicy spreadable pork sausage, exemplifies the area’s charcuterie heritage, while preserved items like salted anchovies and Calabrian soppressata remain staples. Dining options in Cittanova range from traditional trattorias offering homemade pasta and classic dishes to modern venues that might serve international cuisines, reflecting a subtle fusion of local and global influences. It is worth noting that while Cittanova has a lively dining scene, it currently lacks any Michelin-starred restaurants, focusing instead on authentic local flavors and family-run establishments.
Where to shop
The shopping scene includes a combination of supermarkets, boutiques, and open-air markets. Key areas feature pedestrian zones that house a variety of shops, ranging from international brands to local artisans. Specialty markets provide fresh produce, regional crafts, and local delicacies. Larger shopping complexes offer a full shopping experience, showcasing everything from fashion to household goods. Multi-use venues often blend retail with leisure, creating a social space for both residents and visitors.
Green areas & parks
Cittanova in Calabria provides a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers. Noteworthy hikes include the Sentiero Italia, U07, spanning 7.4 miles with moderate difficulty, and the more challenging Cittanova-Canolo Nuova trail, which stretches 13 miles. Moreover, the Monte Cucudo excursion features a 2.3-kilometer Via Crucis path, completed in 2023, with prayer stops and a Greek cross marker at the summit. This path combines natural beauty with spirituality, offering stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and is accessible for both hikers and mountain bikers.
Education
People & tourism
Annual tourists (2023): 3,447