Imagine swapping the daily grind for a life on a tranquil Greek island, surrounded by turquoise waters and bathed in sunshine. For British families and skilled professionals, this idyllic dream could now come with a substantial financial incentive of up to €18,000.
The €500 Monthly Offer to Revive a Community
The stunning but sparsely populated island of Antikythera is actively seeking new residents. In an effort to combat a severe population decline, local authorities are offering a compelling relocation package. Newcomers can receive €500 per month for their first three years, totalling €18,000, which is approximately £15,000.
This initiative, organised by the Greek Orthodox Church of Kythera, also promises successful applicants free accommodation and food. The goal is explicit: to attract young families and skilled workers such as bakers and fishermen to breathe new life into the community.
Life on a Remote Aegean Paradise
Antikythera is a remote gem nestled between Crete and the Peloponnese. With just 45 permanent residents, most of whom are over 50, the island offers an exceptionally peaceful and close-knit way of life. It boasts breathtaking beaches, traditional whitewashed architecture, and a rich historical legacy, including the famous Antikythera Mechanism—an ancient analogue computer discovered in a nearby shipwreck.
However, life there is authentically rustic. The island covers under 8 square miles and is accessible only by ferry. During winter, provisions are limited to one small shop. Despite this, the island has electricity and internet, balancing seclusion with connectivity.
Practicalities and the Current Catch
While the offer is undoubtedly attractive, there is a significant caveat for eager applicants. Although families are promised their choice of a new house, the construction of these properties has been delayed due to administrative paperwork. As a result, no families have yet moved to Antikythera through this specific scheme.
Andrea Harhalakis, the president of Antikythira, has expressed a clear desire for "young families, large enough to make Antikythira alive and full of children's voices." The programme aims to select up to five families, with applicants undergoing an interview process. Those interested are advised to contact Kythira’s Tourism Department for updates on the housing situation.
This Greek initiative mirrors a growing European trend where regions facing depopulation are creating financial incentives to attract new inhabitants. For UK citizens dreaming of a radical lifestyle change, Antikythera presents a unique, sun-drenched opportunity—pending the resolution of its housing delays.
