Yep, you read that right. Molise, a region south of Rome that extends from the mountainous interior to the Adriatic Sea, is offering 700 Euros a month (roughly $765), for three years, if you move there. The area is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets and therefore has preserved much of its character and rich history.
It also boasts two nature reserves, snow on the peaks in wintertime, quaint fishing villages, and quiet beaches, not to mention some of the country’s most notable prehistoric sites and historic ruins. And of course, there’s the marvelous—and affordable—local food and wine that Italy is renowned for.
Like the rest of Italy overall, the region’s population has dwindled in recent years (to 305,000) due to younger residents leaving for opportunities in other countries and the birth rate flattening out. As such, Molise is eager to attract new residents. Here’s a sampling of what you’ll find there.
Before you faint from joy, know that there are conditions: You have to move to Molise as your primary residence, you have to choose a village of less than 2,000 residents, and you have to open a business that benefits the local economy. This can be a bakery, a restaurant, or pretty much anything that adds to the town's vitality. Upon arrival, you have about 60 days to file for a reddito di residenza attiva or "active residency allowance."
This could be your chance to start that new venture you’ve been fantasizing about. So if this sounds like the dream home base for you, start packing!
This isn’t the only area trying to boost populations in Italy: This Italian mayor will pay you $1,000 to move there, or you can buy a house for only $1!
Follow House Beautiful on Instagram.
You Might Also Like
