Retiring in Bari, Italy

Bari, the capital of Puglia, offers retirees a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle with its beautiful seafront, historic old town, and excellent southern Italian cuisine. With its lower cost of living, warm climate, and growing international community, Bari provides an authentic Italian experience with modern amenities.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Lower cost of living
  • ✓ Beautiful coastline
  • ✓ Rich cultural heritage
  • ✓ Excellent food scene
  • ✓ Warm climate
  • ✓ Strategic location

Cons

  • × Hot summers
  • × Limited English usage
  • × Fewer international flights
  • × Some urban decay
  • × Smaller expat community

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 8/10

Available public transport: Buses, Regional Trains, Metro, Airport Connection

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 32°C / 90°F

Winter

Average temperature: 9°C / 48°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 565mm

Sunny days per year: 300

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

Good public healthcare system with teaching hospitals

Private Options

Several private clinics with modern facilities

Wait Times

2-4 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Policlinico di Bari
  • Ospedale Di Venere
  • Ospedale San Paolo
  • Mater Dei Hospital

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Small but growing international community

Activities

Beach activities Historical tours Food experiences Cultural events Boat trips Market visits

Local Markets

  • Mercato Centrale
  • Mercato di Santa Scolastica
  • Mercato del Pesce
  • Farmers Market Campagna Amica

Cultural Events

  • Festa di San Nicola
  • Bari International Film Festival
  • Bari Jazz Festival
  • Christmas Market

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €300
  • Utilities €120
  • Restaurant Meal €20

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • Banco di Napoli
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Bari Vecchia
  • Murat
  • Madonnella
  • Poggiofranco
  • Carrassi

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Puglia Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)