Living in Southern villages (7% flat-tax towns)

Sicily, Sardinia, Calabria, Campania, Apulia, Basilicata, Abruzzo, Molise

Towns under 20,000 people in the South (plus some earthquake-zone towns in central Italy). Foreign-pension retirees can pay a 7% flat tax on all foreign income for 10 years.

1-bed rent (center)

€400/mo

Buy price

€800/m²

60 m² home

~€48k

Quality of life

👍 Highlights

7% flat tax for foreign-pension retirees for 10 years
Houses for €30–80k, and '1-euro homes' in some towns
Authentic village life and incredible landscapes

⚠️ Watch out for

A car is essential; healthcare can be far away
Few English speakers and a quiet winter
Renovation costs and timelines often exceed the purchase price

Work in Southern villages (7% flat-tax towns)

Key sectors: remote work, retirement, agritourism, hospitality.

Tourism & hospitality: €18–30k; owners of B&Bs and agriturismi vary widely

All job sectors →

Practical details

Climate: mediterranean
Nearest airport: Varies by region
Sea / mountains: Sea nearby · Mountains nearby
7% pension flat tax: Eligible towns available

Figures are approximate 2026 estimates. Check Immobiliare.it or Idealista.it for current listings.