Which villages in Italy will pay you to move there?
Italy is offering an exciting opportunity for people looking for a fresh start. Several picturesque villages across the country are paying people to relocate there. Yes, you read that correctly. You will be paid for moving there! Some villages are offering as much as €45,000 to new residents, making it an attractive option for those seeking an authentic Italian lifestyle.
This initiative is a response to the depopulation of many rural areas in Italy. With an ageing population and younger people moving to larger cities, many small villages are struggling to survive. To combat this, local governments are offering relocation packages to attract new residents. Here's an insight into the villages you could be paid to move to in Italy:
1. Calabria: Sant'Agata del Bianco – Up to €45,000
Located in the heart of Calabria, Sant’Agata del Bianco is one of the most generous villages offering relocation incentives. Newcomers can receive up to €45,000 to settle in this charming village. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, including rolling hills and proximity to the Ionian Sea, Sant’Agata del Bianco is perfect for those looking to open a business or invest in the local tourism industry.
The village offers a relaxed pace of life, making it ideal for remote workers or retirees seeking peace and tranquillity. With a rich history and a welcoming community, it offers the perfect mix of traditional Italian culture and modern conveniences.
2. Molise: Campobasso – Up to €27,000
Campobasso, the capital of the Molise region, is another town offering an attractive relocation package. New residents can receive up to €27,000 for setting up businesses or renovating old properties. Known for its beautiful mountains, coastlines, and medieval villages, Molise offers an idyllic setting for those looking for a quieter life away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
The region is perfect for people who appreciate rural living but still want easy access to urban amenities. Campobasso is affordable and offers a close-knit community, along with the stunning beauty of its surrounding landscapes.
3. Abruzzo: Santo Stefano di Sessanio – Up to €25,000
Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a picturesque village in Abruzzo, is offering up to €25,000 for those willing to invest in property or local businesses. This medieval hilltop town is surrounded by the Apennine Mountains and national parks, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The village is particularly suited to those interested in restoring historic buildings and contributing to the preservation of local heritage. Santo Stefano di Sessanio boasts a rich history, with several ancient landmarks and a tight-knit community that values its traditions.
4. Sicily: Caltagirone – Up to €15,000
In Sicily, the town of Caltagirone, famous for its ceramics and baroque architecture, is offering up to €15,000 for new residents who are willing to buy property and restore old homes. Known for its stunning views of the Sicilian countryside and warm Mediterranean climate, Caltagirone offers a slower pace of life while still being rich in cultural heritage.
This town is perfect for those looking to escape the busy life of larger cities and enjoy a blend of history, culture, and tranquillity. With its charming streets, vibrant local culture, and scenic beauty, Caltagirone is an appealing destination for newcomers.
5. Piedmont: Riva Presso Chieri – Up to €10,000
Riva Presso Chieri, a small village in the Piedmont region just outside of Turin, offers up to €10,000 to those who choose to relocate there. With its picturesque landscapes and proximity to the Alps, Riva Presso Chieri is ideal for people who want to enjoy the rural beauty of Italy while still being close to a major city.
The village’s relatively low cost of living, along with its proximity to Turin, makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance of rural peace and urban convenience. Piedmont is known for its fine wines, truffles, and culinary delights, making it a great choice for food lovers.
Why Is Italy Offering Money to Move?
These relocation incentives are part of Italy’s broader strategy to revitalise rural areas that are struggling with depopulation. The aim is to:
Attract young families
Draw in entrepreneurs and remote workers to help boost the local economy
Include support for property renovations and business start-ups
What are the requirements?
This one’s not black and white, as each village has its own requirements. You’ll need to research which village you would like to move to and then see if you meet the requirements. Generally, you will be looking at meeting some combination of the following to qualify:
Applicants must be aged 40 or under
Relocate to a village with fewer than 3,000 residents
Commit to starting a business or filling a needed role in the village
Establish residency within 90 days of acceptance
Use the grant for property purchase or renovation
Purchase and renovate an abandoned house in designated towns
Commit to starting a business or bringing a business to the village
It's essential to review the specific eligibility criteria and commitments for each program before applying.
For remote workers or retirees, moving to one of these villages can provide an opportunity to enjoy Italy’s traditional charm while still having access to modern amenities. Plus, the lower cost of living in rural areas allows you to enjoy a higher quality of life without the high costs associated with living in major cities. With the support of these incentives, you could soon be living your dream in an Italian village – all while helping to revitalise a historic community.
Ciao!