Modena, Italy

Retire in Modena, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 11, 2025

Summary: Modena, Italy is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for retirees. The weather in Modena is mild, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-60s Fahrenheit. There are several retirement communities in Modena, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Modena is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.

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What is it like to retire in Modena?

"Modena is a great place for retirees to enjoy their golden years. The city is known for its rich culture and history, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. There is an active expat community in Modena, and many retirees find it easy to make friends and socialize. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the Modena Cathedral, the Ducal Palace, and the Ghirlandina Tower. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as walking and biking along the city's many trails, or visiting the nearby parks and gardens. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to explore, as well as live music venues and theaters," said one retiree in living in Modena, Italy.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Research thoroughly. Speak to those who have already made the move. It is important to consider the cost of living, potential healthcare and medical facilities, national and international regulations, and cultural and language differences when deciding to retire overseas. Consider the availability of amenities, the potential likelihood of villa rental, and the availability of leisure activities. Ensure that there is suitable infrastructure to provide reliable transportation and other vital services. Look at the climate, political and economic situation of both your home and destination countries, as well as the distance between them. Finally, make sure you are comfortable with the chosen location and have good support networks," commented one retiree living in Modena, Italy.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Modena?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Modena is the language barrier. Although many people in Modena speak English, it is still important to learn some Italian in order to fully integrate into the local culture. Additionally, the cost of living in Modena can be quite high, making it difficult to find affordable housing and other necessities. Furthermore, the climate in Modena can be quite extreme, with hot summers and cold winters, which may be difficult for some retirees to adjust to. Finally, the healthcare system in Italy can be complicated to navigate, making it important for retirees to research their options before making a decision," said a retiree who moved to Modena, Italy.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Modena?

"Retiring in Modena offers a wealth of rewarding experiences. From the stunning architecture of the city's historic center to the delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city is also home to a vibrant cultural scene, with a variety of museums, galleries, and theaters to explore. The surrounding countryside is also full of natural beauty, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Retiring in Modena also provides the opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, with a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Finally, the city's close proximity to other major cities in Italy, such as Milan and Florence, makes it easy to explore the rest of the country," said one retiree in living in Modena, Italy.

What are healthcare services like in Modena?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Modena. They wrote:

"Modena offers a wide range of healthcare services. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a variety of specialized clinics and medical centers. The public healthcare system is managed by the Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) and provides free or low-cost medical care to residents. The city also has a number of private healthcare providers, offering a range of services from general practice to specialized care. Modena also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, the city has a number of health centers offering preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings," explained one retiree living in Modena.

How do I meet people in Modena?

When we asked people living in Modena about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats living in Modena can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups dedicated to expats living in Modena. This can be a great way to connect with other expats and learn more about the local culture," remarked one retiree in Modena.

What is life like in Modena?

When we asked people living in Modena what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Modena is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live. The city is full of culture, history, and art, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. The cost of living is relatively low, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars to explore. The city is well-connected to the rest of Italy and Europe, making it easy to travel to other cities and countries. The climate is mild and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Modena is a great place to live for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of opportunities to explore," said one retiree in Modena.

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Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Modena?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Modena, they said:

"Before retiring in Modena, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of the country. Additionally, the climate is generally mild, with hot summers and cold winters. Expats should also be aware that the city is quite small, so it may be difficult to find a wide variety of activities and entertainment. Furthermore, the city is quite traditional and conservative, so expats should be prepared to respect local customs and traditions. Finally, expats should be aware that the language barrier may be an issue, as Italian is the primary language spoken in Modena," said a person in Modena.

What type of recreational activities are there in Modena?

"Modena is home to a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city boasts a number of parks, including the Parco Ducale, a large public park with a lake, gardens, and a playground. The Parco della Pieve is another popular park, featuring a large open space, a playground, and a skate park. For those looking for a more active experience, the city also has a number of sports facilities, including a soccer stadium, a tennis court, and a swimming pool. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Modena also has a number of cultural attractions, such as the Modena Cathedral, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Teatro Comunale," wrote one person in Modena.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Modena?

"Modena is home to a variety of stores and markets where expats can buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular places to shop is the Mercato Albinelli, a large covered market located in the city center. Here, visitors can find a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. For more general shopping, the Centro Commerciale La Favorita is a large shopping mall located just outside the city center. It features a variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and home goods. For more specialized items, the Via Emilia is a street lined with small shops and boutiques selling everything from antiques to handmade jewelry. Finally, the city also has several supermarkets, such as the Coop and the Conad, where expats can find a wide selection of groceries and other items," said one retiree in Modena.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Italian For A While
Italian For A While

Become 'Italian for a While' - for students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, and professionals! Live out your dreams in Italy while learning Italian and immersing in the language, life, and culture.
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Italian For A WhileItalian For A While

Become 'Italian for a While' - for students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, and professionals! Live out your dreams in Italy while learning Italian and immersing in the language, life, and culture.
Learn More

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