If you've ever dreamed of living in the scenic countryside of Tuscany, now might be your chance. Tuscany, one of Italy's most picturesque regions, has launched a new program aimed at attracting new residents to its underpopulated mountain villages.
The “Residenzialità in Montagna 2024” program offers grants to help people purchase and renovate homes in rural towns, with incentives ranging from €10,000 to €30,000 (approximately $10,715 to $32,145).
This initiative seeks to revitalize rural areas and combat the population decline that has affected many mountain villages in Tuscany.
There are 76 charming towns to choose from, each offering unique advantages. Castelnuovo di Val di Cecina, a medieval village perched on a steep rock in the Maremma foothills, offers historical charm and stunning views. For those looking for relaxation and wellness, the thermal spa town of San Casciano dei Bagni could be the perfect fit. Art enthusiasts may be drawn to Caprese Michelangelo, the birthplace of the renowned artist. The village of Castel San Niccolò in the Arezzo Province is conveniently located near Florence, while Capraia Isola, situated in the heart of the Tuscan Archipelago, offers an island escape.
The program's primary goal is to reverse the depopulation trend in these mountain areas. The Tuscan government hopes to attract new residents, particularly families and long-term settlers, to help stabilize the region's population and improve its economy. Tuscany's efforts are part of a broader initiative across Italy to breathe new life into rural communities that have faced years of population decline. According to a 2016 report by Italy's Ministry of Environment, nearly 2,500 towns were considered at risk of vanishing within 25 years. Additionally, CNN reported that Italy is home to about 6,000 abandoned villages.
For comparison, the average price to purchase a home in Tuscany's most affordable province, Pistoia, is €1,472 per square meter, which works out to roughly $136 per square foot. This is considerably cheaper than the U.S. median price of $222 per square foot, making Tuscany an attractive option for those looking to live in an affordable European location.
#65 What to expect while living in Tuscany: a glimpse into my life in a charming small village
Video by Mihaela Claudia P
The financial grants offered by Tuscany are designed to cover up to 50% of the costs for buying and renovating a home in one of these small towns with populations of fewer than 5,000 people. These grants are intended to encourage people to settle in Tuscany permanently, so vacation homes do not qualify. To be eligible, applicants must either be Italian citizens, EU nationals, or non-EU citizens with a long-term residence permit. U.S. citizens will need to obtain a residence permit before applying, a process that typically involves proving financial stability or securing an Italian job offer.
The deadline for applications is approaching fast—interested parties must submit their applications by 1 p.m. (local Tuscan time) on July 27. The Tuscany region's official website provides the necessary forms and information for applying.
This initiative is part of Italy's broader efforts to attract new residents to its rural communities. In the past, other regions such as Sardinia, Calabria, and Presicce have also offered financial incentives to people willing to move and revitalize their towns. Tuscany's program, with a fund of €2.8 million, is set to bring fresh energy to these beautiful areas and could be the perfect opportunity for anyone ready to embrace life under the Tuscan sun.
