Italian town in Tuscany offers $30,000 to relocate — with one catch

Dreaming of sipping wine, enjoying cheese, and living under the Tuscan sun? Now you could get paid to move there.

The medieval town of Radicondoli, nestled in the Tuscan hills about an hour south of Florence, is offering financial incentives to new residents to revive the town and fill vacant homes.

Initially launched in 2023, the program provided up to €20,000 ($23,400) for those willing to buy and live in empty homes, plus €6,000 ($7,000) for expenses such as heating and transportation. The initiative has now expanded to renters: new tenants moving in before 2026 will have half of their rent covered for the first two years.

“The housing support scheme, launched two years ago, is now being strengthened,” said Mayor Francesco Guarguallini.

Historically, Radicondoli had 3,000 residents; today it has 966 people, with about 100 of 450 houses empty. In total, over €400,000 ($465,000) has been allocated to support new homeowners and tenants.

There is one condition: buyers must commit to living in the town for at least 10 years, and renters for 4 years. Housing prices start around €50,000 ($60,000) for small apartments and up to €100,000 ($117,000) for larger homes. Some properties may need up to €10,000 in renovations, meaning a fully subsidized purchase could cost as little as €30,000. Renters could pay half the usual rent — for example, €200 instead of €400.

“The goal of the program is to improve quality of life, boost economic and residential development, and welcome new friends to the community, especially young people,” notes the town’s official website.