Welcome to Portugal, a country full of beautiful landscapes, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re an expat or a local, Portugal has plenty of affordable and safe places to live. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the cheapest and safest places to live in Portugal as an expat or local in 2023.
Portugal has a wide range of cities and towns that are perfect for expats or locals looking for an affordable and safe place to live. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best options.
Live in Lisbon
Lisbon is one of the most popular cities in Portugal and a great place for expats or locals looking for a bustling city life. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, Lisbon is a great place to call home. However, it can be quite expensive to live in some areas of the city, so it’s important to do your research before choosing a neighborhood.
Live in Porto
Porto is another popular city in Portugal and a great option for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle. With its stunning beaches, beautiful architecture, and delicious food and wine, Porto is a great place to call home. Plus, the cost of living is generally lower than in Lisbon.
Algarve
The Algarve region in southern Portugal is a popular destination for expats and retirees. With its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and affordable cost of living, the Algarve is a great place to call home. There are also plenty of expat communities in the region, making it easy to meet new people and make friends.
Braga
Braga is a charming city in the north of Portugal, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. It’s a great option for those looking for a quieter, more traditional lifestyle. The cost of living in Braga is generally lower than in Lisbon or Porto, making it a great option for those on a budget.
Cost of Living in Portugal
One of the biggest advantages of living in Portugal is the affordable cost of living. The country has a lower cost of living than many other countries in Europe, making it an
attractive option for expats and locals alike. Here are some approximate costs of living in Portugal:
Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Portugal varies depending on the city or town you choose to live in. In Lisbon, for example, you can expect to pay around €900-€1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. In Porto, you can expect to pay slightly less, around €700-€1,200 per month.
Food and drink: Portugal is known for its delicious food and wine, and the cost of dining out is generally quite affordable. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost around €12-€20, while a glass of wine costs around €3-€5.
Transportation: Portugal has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams. The cost of a single bus or tram ticket is around €1.50-€2, while a monthly pass costs around €35-€50.
Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal
While Portugal has plenty of advantages, there are also some downsides to consider. Here are some pros and cons of living in Portugal:
Pros:
Affordable cost of living: As we mentioned earlier, the cost of living in Portugal is generally quite affordable compared to other European countries.
Beautiful landscapes: Portugal is known for its stunning landscapes, including beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and historic cities.
Friendly locals: Portuguese people are known for being warm and friendly, making it easy to make friends and feel at home.
Cons:
One of the biggest cons is the language barrier. While many Portuguese people speak English, the official language is Portuguese and it can be difficult to navigate daily life without a basic understanding of the language. This can make it challenging to make friends and integrate into the local community.
Another downside is that the healthcare system in Portugal, while good, can be slow and bureaucratic. It may take longer to get an appointment or receive medical care compared to other countries. Additionally, some remote areas of Portugal may have limited access to healthcare facilities.
Another potential downside is the cost of living. While Portugal is still relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries, the cost of living has been rising in recent years, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. Housing costs can be high, and utilities like electricity and water can also be expensive.
Finally, while Portugal is generally a safe country, there is still crime, especially in larger cities. Pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe.
Overall, while there are some downsides to retiring in Portugal, many expats find that the benefits outweigh the challenges. With its sunny weather, beautiful scenery, and welcoming culture, Portugal can be a great place to spend your golden years.
