If you’ve been dreaming of ‘la dolce vita’ but need to keep a close eye on your budget, you’re not alone. With house prices rising faster than pizza dough in Nonna’s kitchen, knowing where to find the best value has never been more important.
The good news? Even in 2025, Italy is still full of affordable pockets where you can get more bricks for your buck, without compromising on charm, culture, or countryside views. From rustic retreats to seaside steals, we’ve found the province where you can buy cheap property in Italy this year, plus a few other budget-friendly gems you’ll want on your house-hunting radar.
Ready to start your Italian property search? Let’s find out where your money goes furthest.
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Why buy property in Italy?
Whether it’s the sun-soaked coastlines, the pasta-fulled lifestyle or the chance to slow down and savour the little things, Italy’s appeal for foreign property buyers is as strong as ever. But beyond the usual romantic clichés, there are very practical reasons why more international buyers are turning their attention here particularly in 2025.
First, let’s take a look at the numbers. Italy remains significantly more affordable than other major Western property markets. The average house price per quare metre in Italian city centres is €3,702.96, compared to a hefty £7,844.91 in the UK. Go outside the city centres and you can expect to pay even less, around €2,253.78 on average. For US buyers, a home in a lower-cost Italian location like Reggio Calabria could cost as little as $164,000, whereas a similar-sized property in a US city could easily push $450,000.
And while it’s no secret that northern hotspots like Milan and Venice still come with eye-watering price tags, shift your gaze south to places like Scalea in Calabria, and you’ll find seaside charm at a fraction of the cost – sometimes even for under €50,000!
Economically, Italy is on a stable footing as we head further into 2025. The European Commission forecasts a GDP growth of 1%, inflation under control at 1.9%, and a drop in interest rates (3.25% in late 2024) is already reigniting buyer interest who’d previously been sitting on the fence.
We’re also seeing a rise in remote workers and retirees relocating to southern Italy, drawn by the slower pace of life, milder climate, and increasingly reliable digital infrastructure. Even pre-perceived disadvantages, like distance from business hubs, have transferred into lifestyle strengths.
Whether you’re relocating, investing, or retiring, Italy is a country where your money still goes further, and your quality of life goes up. You can learn more about the Italy property market forecast for 2025 in our Italy real estate market outlook 2025.
Where to buy cheap property in Italy: Calabria
Scilla, Calabria
If Calabria hasn’t been on your radar for buying cheap property in Italy, you’re not alone. This region is often overlooked in favour of more famous neighbours like Sicily and Puglia, however, this southern gem remains Italy’s best-kept property secret. With average house prices as low as €400-€600 per square metre, Calabria officially takes the crown as the cheapest province to buy property in Italy in 2025.
Nestled at the toe of Italy’s boot, Calabria offers more than just low prices. Here, you’ll find rugged mountain landscapes, wild beaches, sleepy hilltop towns, and a refreshingly slow pace of life. All served with a delicious side of sunshine, seafood, and warm southern hospitality.
Tropea, Calabria
So what’s behind the bargain? Calabria’s affordability can be traced back to a complex mix of economic history and demographic shifts. Overdevelopment in the 1980s led to a surplus of housing – particularly in coastal tourist towns like Scalea, which today still offers properties at impressively low prices. On top of that, depopulation and rural abandonment have left many of Calabria’s villages with more homes than residents, prompting some towns to offer symbolic €1 houses to attract newcomers.
But make no mistake, this isn’t a case of cheap and cheerless. In fact, Calabria is bursting with charm. Imagine waking up in a stone-built townhouse in a medieval village, sipping espresso on the balcony of your seaside apartment, or transforming a rustic countryside villa into your dream home – all for less than a spenny city break to London or New York.
You’ll also find a deeply authentic lifestyle here. The local cuisine is rich with history and flavour. From fiery ‘nduja sausage to homemade pasts and freshly caught swordfish. The climate is all Mediterranean and mild, with hot summers and balmy winters, perfect for year-round living or a welcome holiday escape. And for the active nature-lovers, national parks like Sila and Aspromonte offer hiking, waterfalls, and panoramic views to rival anywhere in Europe.
Scilla, Calabria
Of course, some properties may require renovation, and the market in certain rural areas remains quieter due to limited tourism infrastructure. But rather than a red flag, this presents a golden opportunity for buyers willing to look beyond the obvious. With the right guidance and a realistic view of the process, you can uncover serious value.
In short? Calabria is not only the cheapest province to buy property in Italy, it’s also one of the most exciting with plenty of opportunities. For anyone looking to stretch their budget, slow things down, and start afresh in an authentic Italian setting, this sun-soaked region is well worth a look.
What’s it like to live in Calabria?
Pizzo Calabro, Calabria
Life in Calabria moves to its own rhythm… and that’s exactly the appeal! You won’t find the fast-paced buzz of Milan or the packed piazzas of Roma here. Instead, you can expect slow mornings with a cappuccino in the sun, friendly chats with your neighbours, and a strong sense of local community. Whether you’re picking up fresh local produce from the village market or enjoying an aperitivo with sea views, the day-to-day feels simpler, more grounded and a lot more affordable! English isn’t widely spoken in the more rural areas, but for many buyers, that’s all part of the adventure. Many argue that in Calabria, you experience Italy at its most authentic!
What types of properties are available for sale in Calabria?
The village of Bova in the Province of Reggio Calabria
Kyero.com currently lists more than 800 properties for sale across Calabria, with plenty of beautiful offerings in popular areas like Scalea, Cetraro and Belvedere Marittimo. For the mega bargain-hunters, you can even find quaint little 1-bedroom apartments for as little as €29,000, or for those seeking a fun reno project, how would a townhouse with sea views that’s just a stone’s throw from the beach suit you for only €21,000? The budget-friendly opportunities truly feel endless in Calabria!
Typical properties include flower-framed whitewashed villas near the beach, traditional stonehouses nestled within cobbled streets, and restored townhouses crowned with spacious terraces. Whatever you picture as the setting of your new life in Italy, we’re certain you’ll find the stunning property plucked from your dreams in Calabria.
Other affordable provinces to buy property in Italy
If Calabria doesn’t quite tick every box, don’t worry – Italy has no shortage of regions where you can still get a lot of property for your money. Here are three other value-packed provinces that are well worth exploring in 2025:
Often forgotten by Italians themselves, Molise is the kind of place where time slows down, and so do the property prices! Tucked between Abruzzo and Puglia, this rural region is rich in mountains, medieval hill towns, and Adriatic coastline. It’s also one of the most affordable areas in the country: in March, the average asking price was just €1,040 per square metre.
You’ll find four-bedroom apartments from around €60,000, making it an excellent option for families or those seeking a peaceful retirement spot. Molise offers buyers a remote location with plenty of peace and quiet and close connections to the outdoors while maintaining an authentic Italian lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of more famous regions.
Sicily may be more well-known, but that doesn’t mean it’s expensive. In fact, it’s still a treasure trove for bargain hunters. With an average price per square metre of around €1,350, it’s lower than the Italian average, though prices do rise in popular coastal spots like Taormina and Cefalù.
For buyers willing to go more inland or explore lesser-known villages, there’s plenty of value to be found. On Kyero.com, you’ll find over 6,000 properties for sale in Sicily, including renovation-ready country homes with fruit trees from only €49,000. From golden beaches to baroque towns, Sicily delivers sunshine and soul in equal measure, plus a rich culinary and cultural heritage.
Civitella del Lago, Italian medieval town in Umbria
Nicknamed the “green heart of Italy”, Umbria combines rolling hills, olive groves, and picturesque villages with prices that are far more forgiving than its glitzy neighbour Tuscany. While it’s the priciest of provinces on this list, it still represents great value for its central location and natural beauty.
Expect average prices from around €1,700 - €2,000 per square metre, depending on location. On Kyero.com, you’ll find over 3,000 properties for sale, including traditional stone farmhouses with large gardens for around €200,000. A steal compared to similar homes just across the Tuscan border!
Tips for buying cheap property in Italy
Morano Calabro, Cosenza, Calabria
Affordable homes in Italy aren’t just a fantasy, they’re out there, and with the right know-how, you can find a smart dream-come-true investment. But even bargain buys come with a few things to watch out for.
Factor in the full cost
Older or more rural properties often require at least some renovation, and expenses like taxes, agent fees, and notary services can quickly add up. Be realistic with your budget and always allow for a little extra wiggle room.
Pick your location wisely
Ultra-rural villages may offer the lowest prices, but homes near transport links or on the edge of more popular areas tend to offer better long-term value and lifestyle convenience.
Don’t go it alone
A trusted local agent can help you avoid pitfalls, especially if you’re buying from abroad or sight unseen. They can guide you through the legal process and help spot hidden issues.
The good news is that thousands of international buyers make the move every year, and with so many affordable homes available, there’s every reason you can too! Whether you’re dreaming of a countryside escape or a sunny seaside bolthole, Italy has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Start your search by taking a look at our favourite budget properties for sale this month in Italy.
Tropea Beach, Calabria
Even in 2025, Italy remains one of Europe’s most affordable and rewarding places to buy property. Whether you’re drawn to the wild beauty of Calabria, the peaceful charm of Molise, or the sun-soaked culture of Sicily, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly options to explore.
The cheapest province might just be the perfect place for your new beginning, or it might simply inspire you to look beyond the tourist trail tpo find your ideal Italian home.
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