Spain launches initiatives to revitalize depopulated rural areas

Authorities in Castilla-La Mancha, Spain, have launched the ‘Moviliza tu Vivienda Rural’ program to combat rural depopulation by converting vacant houses into affordable or social housing. Under this initiative, part of the National Housing Plan 2026-2030, property owners can receive up to 30,000 euros. This includes up to 12,000 euros for renovation and equipment, plus a guarantee of up to 18,000 euros for potential damages at the end of the term. Owners must make the properties available to local administrations for at least seven years, with rents capped at 600 euros per month.

In the province of Cuenca, the village of Torrejoncillo del Rey is participating in the Holapueblo initiative to revitalize its local economy. Rather than traditional recruitment, the program encourages new residents to relocate and establish businesses to fill service gaps. Opportunities include managing existing businesses such as a tobacco shop, a municipal swimming pool, a gym, a bar, or a restaurant. There is also a demand for new services, such as a DIY store and real estate agencies to manage the area's unoccupied properties.