Best and cheapest beach villages to live in Portugal in 2023
Are you dreaming of starting a new life in Portugal? With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and affordable cost of living, Portugal has become a popular destination for expats looking for a change of scenery. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to live. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best and cheapest beach villages to live in Portugal in 2023, and help you make an informed decision about your move.
Where to Live in Portugal
Portugal is a relatively small country, but it offers a wide variety of living options. From the bustling city of Lisbon to the laid-back beach town of Lagos, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for a quiet and affordable place to live, you might want to consider one of the many charming beach villages that dot the coast.
But where to start? Here are some of the best and cheapest beach villages to live in Portugal in 2023:
Algarve – Lagos
Lagos is a beautiful coastal town located in the western Algarve region. It’s known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic landmarks. The cost of living in Lagos is relatively low compared to other coastal towns in Portugal, making it an ideal location for those on a budget. With its laid-back atmosphere and warm climate, it’s the perfect place to retire or start a new life.
Algarve – Albufeira
Albufeira is another popular destination in the Algarve region. It’s a bustling town with a vibrant nightlife and a wide range of restaurants and bars. The cost of living in Albufeira is affordable, and the town offers plenty of amenities for residents. It’s also known for its beautiful beaches and scenic coastline. With a cost of living that’s lower than many other European countries. A one-bedroom apartment in Albufeira can be rented for as little as €600 per month.
Nazaré
Nazaré is a charming fishing village located on Portugal’s west coast. It’s known for its big-wave surfing, as well as its fresh seafood and laid-back lifestyle. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with plenty of hiking trails and other outdoor activities to enjoy. A one-bedroom apartment in Nazaré can be rented for around €500 per month.
Silver Coast – Peniche
Peniche is a small coastal town located on the Silver Coast. It’s known for its fantastic surfing beaches and is a popular destination for surfers from around the world. The cost of living in Peniche is relatively low, and the town has a relaxed, laid-back vibe. It’s an excellent location for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful life by the sea. It’s also relatively affordable, with a one-bedroom apartment available for around €500 per month.
Porto Covo
Located in the Alentejo region, Porto Covo is a quaint village with a population of just over 1,000 people. It’s known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as its quiet, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. A one-bedroom apartment in Porto Covo can be rented for around €400 per month.
Setúbal – Sesimbra
Sesimbra is a charming fishing town located in the Setúbal region. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, traditional fishing culture, and fresh seafood. The cost of living in Sesimbra is relatively low compared to other coastal towns in the region, and it offers a quieter, more relaxed way of life. It’s an ideal location for those who enjoy the outdoors and want to live close to nature in Portugal.
Tavira
Located in the eastern Algarve, Tavira is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. It’s known for its beautiful architecture, as well as its stunning beaches and nearby nature reserves. It’s also relatively affordable, with a cost of living that’s lower than many other parts of the Algarve. A one-bedroom apartment in Tavira can be rented for around €600 per month.
Estremadura – Ericeira
Ericeira is a small fishing village located in the Estremadura region. It’s known for its stunning beaches, picturesque streets, and excellent seafood. The cost of living in Ericeira is relatively low, and the town has a relaxed, laid-back vibe. It’s an ideal location for those who want to live close to nature and enjoy a slower pace of life.
When it comes to living in Portugal, there are pros and cons to consider. On the one hand, Portugal offers a relaxed, laid-back way of life, beautiful beaches, and a warm climate. On the other hand, there are downsides to living in Portugal, including a slower pace of life and a lack of job opportunities in some areas.
Living in Lisbon as an expat is becoming increasingly popular. The city is known for its lively atmosphere, excellent food, and cultural attractions. The cost of living in Lisbon is relatively low compared to other major European cities, making it an affordable destination for those on a budget.
Porto is another popular destination for expats in Portugal. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant nightlife, and excellent food and wine. The cost of living in Porto is relatively low compared to other major European cities, and it offers a high quality of life for residents.
Portugal is an excellent destination for those looking to start a new life by the sea. Whether you’re looking for a bustling coastal town or a quiet fishing village, Portugal has something to offer everyone. With its warm climate, relaxed way of life, and affordable cost of living, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to live in Portugal in 2023.
Living in Porto
If you’re looking for a place with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene, Porto might be the perfect place for you. Located in the north of Portugal, Porto is known for its beautiful old town, historic port wine cellars, and iconic bridge. The cost of living in Porto is relatively affordable for expats, and the city is home to a growing expat community.
Moving to Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that is attracting more and more expats each year. With its beautiful architecture, lively nightlife, and proximity to some of Portugal’s best beaches, Lisbon has a lot to offer. While the cost of living in Lisbon is higher than in other parts of Portugal, it is still relatively affordable compared to other major European cities.
If you’re planning to move to Portugal, it’s important to know that there is a strong expat community in the country. Many expats choose to live in coastal areas, where they can enjoy the beautiful scenery and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a lively city, Portugal has something for everyone.
Living in Lisbon Pros and Cons
Like any city, Lisbon has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it offers a lively cultural scene, beautiful architecture, and proximity to some of Portugal’s best beaches. On the other hand, the cost of living in Lisbon is relatively high, and the city can be crowded and noisy at times. However, many expats find that the pros of living in Lisbon far outweigh the cons.
Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal
While Portugal offers many advantages to expats, it’s important to consider both the pros and cons of living in the country. On the one hand, Portugal offers a low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and a welcoming culture. On the other hand, the country can be slow-paced, and the bureaucracy can be challenging to navigate. However, many expats find that the pros of living in Portugal far outweigh the cons.
Why consider moving to Portugal for a living?
· Of course, moving to a new country is never without its challenges. Here are some things to keep in mind when considering a move to Portugal:
· While the cost of living in Portugal is generally lower than many other European countries, it’s important to budget accordingly. Make sure you have enough money saved up to cover your expenses until you find a job or establish other sources of income.
· If you’re moving to Portugal from the US, be prepared for some cultural differences. Portuguese culture is quite different from American culture, so it’s important to be open-minded and willing to adapt.
· While Portugal is generally a safe country, it’s important to take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas, and be cautious when using public transportation.
· Finally, it’s important to do your research and choose the right place to live. Consider factors such as climate, cost of living, and access to amenities when making your decision.
