Calabria offers free housing to combat population decline

The regional government of Calabria in southern Italy launched a pilot project called Ripopola Calabria to attract new residents to its depopulated villages.

Regional President Roberto Occhiuto is offering 50 vacant houses to people who do not currently live in the region. The government pays for the full renovation of these properties to ensure they meet modern standards for safety and energy efficiency.

Selected applicants can live in these homes for 10 years at no cost, provided they establish a permanent residence in Calabria. The program targets young couples, families, and workers, and it is open to foreign nationals. The initiative aims to reverse decades of migration to northern Italy and Europe, which has left many small towns with aging populations and closing businesses. By bringing in new inhabitants, the government hopes to revitalize local schools, shops, and services.

The project uses funds from the Development and Cohesion Plan to transform these properties into living spaces of up to 140 square meters.