Calabria · Reggio Calabria · Italy
Reggio di Calabria
Coastal town with ancient ruins, archaeological museum, vibrant cuisine, and improving infrastructure.
At a glance
About Reggio di Calabria
Reggio di Calabria, nestled in the toe of Italy’s boot along the Strait of Messina, is an appealing destination for expats and retirees seeking a blend of culture and natural beauty. The city boasts a lively promenade with stunning sea views, ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and the renowned National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most significant artifacts from Magna Graecia. Local Calabrian cuisine offers a rich culinary experience, characterized by fresh, regional ingredients and traditional dishes.
Despite its many attractions, living in Reggio di Calabria comes with challenges. The healthcare system ranks lower than average, which could be a concern for retirees. Additionally, while the city is walkable and the air quality is commendable, infrastructure improvements are still underway. However, the warm climate, community-focused lifestyle, and proximity to beautiful beaches make it a compelling choice for those looking to settle in a culturally rich environment.
✓ Pros for expats
– Mild climate with warm summers and mild winters.
– Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
– Opportunities for community integration and local traditions.
– Access to healthcare facilities, though quality varies.
– Good air quality for a healthier lifestyle.
– Low tourist crowds, offering a more authentic experience.
– Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
– Adequate transportation options for local and regional travel.
– Diverse local cuisine reflecting Calabria’s culinary traditions.
– Growing internet connectivity for remote work opportunities.
! Things to consider
– Healthcare quality is subpar; be prepared for some frustrations.
– Limited educational facilities may affect families with children.
– Public transport can be infrequent and unreliable at times.
– Job opportunities are scarce, making employment challenging.
– Internet speeds may not always meet high demands.
– Cultural events are fewer; not much nightlife to explore.
– Local amenities can be limited outside the town center.
– Language barriers might hinder deeper community integration.
– Some areas may feel isolated, especially in off-seasons.
– Economic opportunities are limited; adjust expectations accordingly.
Where is Reggio di Calabria
Getting there
Reggio di Calabria is accessible via the A2 motorway, which connects to southern Italy. The town is serviced by the nearby Tito Minniti and Lamezia Terme airports. Train services are available at nearby stations, offering moderate connectivity scores.
Housing & cost of living
Estimated cost of an 80 m² home: €61,120
Housing availability: High
Cost of living
Living in Reggio di Calabria offers a balanced financial outlook for expats and investors. While the town’s average income suggests modest earning potential, it is coupled with a low unemployment rate, indicating job availability. Housing remains affordable, especially compared to Italy’s larger metropolitan areas, and essential living costs, such as groceries and transportation, are reasonable. However, the local economy’s moderate rating hints at cautious optimism rather than booming opportunity. Overall, Reggio di Calabria presents a practical living option, especially for those seeking cost-effectiveness amidst a stable environment.
Climate & weather
Very High (81st-90th percentile)
Very Low (Bottom 10%)
Somewhat Low (21st-30th percentile)
Exceptional (Top 10%)
Reggio di Calabria enjoys a comfortable Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, sunny summers. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, ensuring lush vegetation without excessive humidity. The city benefits from extensive sunshine, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities and solar energy utilization. Winters are mild with occasional light snowfall, adding a scenic touch without causing disruptions. Temperatures range from pleasant lows in the cooler months to warm highs in the peak of summer, supporting a vibrant outdoor lifestyle perfect for expats and retirees. Overall, Reggio di Calabria offers an idyllic setting with well-balanced weather conditions conducive to relaxed living.
Air quality & environment
Air quality rating: ★★★★★
Reggio di Calabria offers a generally clean atmospheric environment, suitable for retirees and expats prioritizing wellness. The levels of particulate matter, specifically PM10 and PM2.5, are notably low, maintaining a status that contributes positively to overall air quality. Nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, potential irritants, also present in minimal concentrations that comply with recommended health standards. However, the ozone level, while not alarming, registers slightly elevated readings occasionally, which could be a concern during certain periods of the year. Overall, the air quality in Reggio di Calabria supports a healthy lifestyle with minimal pollution-related concerns.
Healthcare & safety
Road accidents: 10.0 per 10k inhabitants.
ASP Reggio Calabria covers Reggio Calabria province — Reggio city, the Aspromonte, the Costa Viola, Locri, the Ionian Calabrian coast. Composite of 47/100, below the median. Profile is balanced. The Aspromonte interior faces long transfer times, but the coastal corridors are within reasonable reach of Reggio’s hospital. For residents on the southern Tyrrhenian Calabrian coast, cross-Strait options into Messina are sometimes used in practice.
Internet & connectivity
Transport & proximity
✈️ Airports
| Airport | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Tito Minniti (Reggio Calabria) | 19 min | 6 |
| Lamezia Terme (Lamezia) | 67 min | 5 |
| Catania Fontanarossa (Catania) | 95 min | 7 |
🚂 Rail stations
| Station | Drive | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Reggio di Calabria Centrale | 21 min | 9 |
| Reggio di Calabria Santa Caterina | 20 min | 7 |
| Reggio Calabria San Gregorio | 21 min | 8 |
What's nearby
Life in Reggio di Calabria
Neighbourhoods
– **Archi**: Located in the northern part of the city, Archi incorporates both residential and industrial areas, with proximity to the coastal line.
– **Cannavò**: Primarily a residential district, Cannavò is noted for its local community amenities, contributing to its suburban feel.
– **Cataforio**: Positioned in the hilly zones, this neighbourhood offers scenic overlooks and is marked by its traditional housing.
– **Catona**: A coastal district with a mix of residential and local commercial spaces, Catona provides access to regional trade routes.
– **Centro storico**: The historical centre features key sites such as the Duomo, Castello, and Museo, signifying its cultural and historical importance.
– **Pentimele**: Known for its concert venue, Pentimele is an area integrating entertainment and residential living.
– **Pellaro**: Situated towards the south, Pellaro combines agricultural land and emerging residential developments, benefiting from coastal proximity.
– **Gallico**: A mix of urban and rural characteristics, Gallico encompasses regions such as Gallico Marina for seaside access.
– **Santa Caterina**: A northern district with parts leading to the city’s port, Santa Caterina includes residential and commercial sectors.
– **Mosorrofa**: An inland district noted for its tranquility and greener landscapes, away from the urban core.
– **Ravagnese**: Includes the area near the local airport, combining residential zones with industrial facilities.
Local cuisine
Reggio di Calabria showcases a distinctive culinary scene deeply rooted in its local traditions, emphasized by an abundance of fresh seafood and regional ingredients. The local cuisine includes traditional dishes such as ‘fileja’ pasta, ‘nduja’ (a spicy spreadable salami), and an array of vegetable-based recipes. The town offers a mix of dining options from traditional trattorias to modern eateries, with influences from Mediterranean and rustic Italian cuisine. Notably, there are Michelin-starred restaurants like Qafiz, celebrated for their innovative menus rooted in Calabrian heritage.
Where to shop
Shopping options in this city include a pedestrian-friendly main street featuring diverse boutiques, designer stores, and international retail chains. It hosts various market types such as historic shops and modern outlets. Additional shopping venues include vibrant malls and markets offering local craftsmanship. The atmosphere is a blend of traditional and contemporary, appealing to all tastes. Expats and retirees will find essentials alongside unique finds, enhancing the shopping experience significantly.
Green areas & parks
Reggio Calabria offers a variety of outdoor activities geared towards hiking enthusiasts. Key trails include the Sentiero Italia, a challenging 28-kilometer hike from Reggio Calabria to Gambarie, and the 11-kilometer moderate Passo di Orti via Fortino Pentimele. For extensive trekking, consider the 190-kilometer Trans Aspromontana, stretching from Gallico Marina to Brancaleone. These trails provide diverse landscapes and microclimates suitable for both hiking and biking. Besides hiking, outdoor activities also include trekking and cultural exploration in Aspromonte National Park.
Education
People & tourism
Annual tourists (2023): 118,062