Retiring in Pisa, Italy

Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower but offering much more, provides retirees with a perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience. With its prestigious university, excellent healthcare system, and strategic location in Tuscany, Pisa offers a high quality of life at more reasonable costs than Florence.

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

Pros

  • ✓ Lower cost than Florence
  • ✓ Excellent healthcare
  • ✓ University atmosphere
  • ✓ Close to coast
  • ✓ Good transport links
  • ✓ Rich cultural life

Cons

  • × Tourist crowds in center
  • × Smaller job market
  • × Limited nightlife
  • × Summer heat
  • × Some areas need renovation

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 8.5/10

Available public transport: Buses, Trains, Airport Connection, Bike Sharing

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 30°C / 86°F

Winter

Average temperature: 7°C / 45°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 893mm

Sunny days per year: 252

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

High-quality public healthcare with university hospital

Private Options

Several private clinics with specialized services

Wait Times

2-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale Cisanello
  • Ospedale Santa Chiara
  • Centro Don Carlo Gnocchi
  • Casa di Cura San Rossore

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Growing international community with university influence

Activities

Historical tours Beach trips Cultural events University lectures Food tours Art exhibitions

Local Markets

  • Mercato delle Vettovaglie
  • Mercato di Via Paparelli
  • Mercato di San Martino
  • Farmers Market Don Bosco

Cultural Events

  • Luminara di San Ranieri
  • Pisa Folk Festival
  • Internet Festival
  • Regata di San Ranieri

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €350
  • Utilities €130
  • Restaurant Meal €25

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • Monte dei Paschi di Siena
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Centro Storico
  • Santa Maria
  • San Francesco
  • San Martino
  • Porta a Lucca

Sources

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