Trentino Region Offers €100,000 to Newcomers Willing to Renovate Abandoned Homes

An Italian region is paying individuals to move there — but there are some rules

The Italian region of Trentino, nestled in the country's picturesque north, is offering up to €100,000 to individuals who relocate to one of its 33 depopulated towns and commit to renovating abandoned properties. The initiative, aimed at countering rural exodus and revitalizing historic villages, comes with specific conditions designed to ensure long-term investment in the area’s future.

Applicants accepted into the scheme will receive €20,000 toward the purchase of a vacant property and up to €80,000 in renovation grants. However, recipients must agree to live in or rent out the property for at least 10 years. Those who fail to meet this commitment risk being required to repay the grant in full.

Participants are allowed to apply for support on up to three properties per village but must maintain rental rates at “moderate” levels. Additionally, renovation costs are capped at €200,000, meaning homeowners cannot invest more than €120,000 of their own money in upgrades. Applicants under the age of 45 who already reside in the region are not eligible for the program.

According to local authorities, the initiative is designed to combat the growing problem of depopulation, which has seen empty homes outnumber occupied ones in many towns. “It is a measure aimed at creating an identity community network in contexts of strong depopulation,” stated the Trentino provincial government. Maurizio Fugatti, president of Trento, described the plan as an “experimental action” focused on “strengthening social cohesion in the Trentino area.”

One of the catches, is that participants opf the project have to stay in or rent the property for 10 years

The local council has allocated €10 million over two years to fund the project. While the full list of participating municipalities is yet to be finalized, areas such as Val di Non—where depopulation has surpassed 11 percent—are expected to be included.

The Trentino region offers a stunning natural backdrop, surrounded by the Italian Alps and home to the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Between Lake Garda and the mountain ranges, the region is a haven for lovers of nature, history, and outdoor activities.

Its capital, Trento, is rich in culture and history. The city is known for the Council of Trent, Renaissance-era frescoes, and the production of Trentodoc sparkling wine. Attractions such as the innovative natural science museum MUSE and the medieval Castello del Buonconsiglio with its famous Torre dell’Aquila frescoes add to its charm.

The region is well-connected to major cities, with Verona less than an hour away by train, Venice just over two hours, and Milan under three hours. Seasonal tourism is also a major draw, with over 800 kilometers of ski slopes in winter and extensive hiking, mountain biking, and climbing options during summer months.

With its combination of financial support, scenic beauty, and cultural richness, Trentino’s relocation scheme presents a unique opportunity for those looking to start a new chapter in one of Italy’s most captivating regions.