The regional authorities in Tuscany have introduced an incentive program to help revitalize the mountain towns with dwindling populations. Under the scheme, called ‘Residency in the mountains 2024’, applicants can receive financial assistance ranging from €10,000 to €30,000 to purchase a house in one of the 119 mountain towns in Tuscany with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants. This financial contribution cannot exceed 50 percent of the cost of purchasing and renovating the property. The goal of the program is to encourage people, especially young individuals, to choose to live in these picturesque but depopulated areas and provide them with a new opportunity for a better life.
Many rural towns and villages in Italy are facing a population crisis as residents have been migrating to urban areas in search of better job opportunities. This has resulted in a large number of abandoned houses and struggling local economies in these communities. The regional councils in Tuscany have been exploring innovative solutions to attract new residents, including selling properties for as little as €1. With the ‘Residency in the mountains 2024’ program, they aim to offer a financial incentive to individuals willing to relocate to the mountain towns and contribute to their revitalization. The initiative is seen as a way to preserve the unique beauty and cultural heritage of these areas, while also providing new opportunities for those seeking a fresh start.
In order to be eligible for the grant, applicants must meet certain criteria set by the Tuscany regional authorities. They have to be Italian citizens or citizens of another European Union state, or non-EU citizens holding a residence permit of at least 10 years. Additionally, they must be registered as residents in an Italian town or city, but not currently living in a mountain community as defined by the Italian National Institute of Statistics. Those who meet these requirements can apply for the grant through an online form available on the Tuscany Region website. The deadline for submissions is 27 July at 1pm CET, giving interested individuals a limited time to take advantage of this opportunity to receive financial aid for their relocation to a mountain town in Tuscany.
The initiative to pay people to move to Tuscany’s mountain towns is part of a larger effort by regional authorities to address the population decline in rural areas. By providing financial assistance to individuals willing to settle in these communities, the program aims to stimulate economic growth, promote social cohesion, and preserve the cultural heritage of the region. The picturesque landscapes and charming villages of Tuscany are not just tourist destinations, but also vibrant communities with a rich history and traditions that are worth preserving. Through this incentive program, the authorities hope to attract new residents who can contribute to the sustainable development of these mountain towns and create a brighter future for their inhabitants.
Tuscany’s regional vice president, Stefania Saccardi, highlights the importance of the initiative as an opportunity for individuals, especially young people, to make a new life choice and embrace the challenges and rewards of living in a mountain community. The program offers a chance for applicants to rediscover the beauty of these villages, which have been struggling with depopulation, and to create a meaningful impact on the local economy and society. By encouraging people to move to Tuscany’s mountain towns, the regional authorities are not only offering financial support for property purchase and renovation but also fostering a sense of community and belonging among the residents. The grant scheme represents a unique opportunity for individuals looking to start a new chapter in their lives and contribute to the preservation and prosperity of these charming communities in rural Tuscany.
