Are you considering a move abroad? Portugal is the new hotspot for American retirees and ex-pats. Country has emerged as a top destination for Americans looking for a warm climate, affordable living costs, and a high quality of life. From its beautiful beaches to its historic cities, it has a lot to offer those looking for a new adventure. Its growing ex-pat community also makes it easy to connect with others and find a sense of community in a new place. From its stunning coastline to its vibrant cities, there are plenty of reasons why you should consider moving to Portugal.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the top reasons why it should be on your radar for your next move. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top reasons why Portugal could be the perfect place for you. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Why Portugal?
We visited Lisbon and Porto, two of the most beloved cities, and for good reason. In Lisbon, you can stroll through winding alleys and soak up the city’s rich history and culture, from the Moorish influences in the Alfama neighborhood to the stunning Gothic architecture of the Jeronimos Monastery. The city is also known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to suit all tastes. Porto, on the other hand, is famous for its charming riverside district, the Ribeira, and its stunning bridges, including the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge.
The city is also the home of port wine, with many historic wine cellars offering tastings and tours. Both cities are known for their delicious cuisine, with fresh seafood, hearty stews, and regional specialties like francesinha in Porto and bacalhau in Lisbon. But for us what really sets Lisbon and Porto apart is the warm and welcoming spirit of their people, who are always happy to share their culture and traditions with visitors. All of these factors combine to make Lisbon and Porto truly unforgettable destinations.
The Warm Climate and Beautiful Beaches
Portugal’s warm climate and beautiful beaches are some of its biggest draws for tourists and ex-pats alike. The country has a Mediterranean climate, with long, hot summers and mild winters. This makes it an ideal place for those who enjoy spending time outdoors and taking advantage of the beautiful weather. According to WeatherOnline the average temperature in the summer months ranges from 25-30°C (77-86°F), with some regions reaching even higher temperatures.
The coastline stretches for over 800 kilometers (500 miles), with a wide range of beaches to choose from. From rocky coves to long stretches of golden sand, there is something for everyone. The Algarve region, in particular, is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Some of the most popular beaches, include Praia da Rocha, Praia do Vau, and Praia da Luz in the Algarve region, as well as Praia do Guincho and Praia da Comporta near Lisbon. Many of these beaches have amenities like restaurants, bars, and water sports activities, making them perfect for a day trip or a longer beach vacation.
In addition to its beaches, Portugal is also home to several natural parks and reserves, such as the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Arrábida Natural Park. These areas offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking.
The Affordable Cost Of Living
Compared to other Western European countries, Portugal has a relatively low cost of living. You can easily check and compare living costs online at Numbeo. Housing is generally affordable, and food and transportation costs are reasonable. This makes it an attractive destination for retirees, digital nomads, and young families looking for a more affordable place to live. Here are some more details about the affordable cost of living:
Housing
The biggest reason people move to Portugal is rent and property prices are generally lower compared to other popular European cities. In Lisbon, for example, you can find a decent one-bedroom apartment in the city center for around €700-€1000 per month, while a similar apartment in Paris or London could easily cost double or triple that amount.
Food
Eating out is generally affordable in Portugal, with meals at local restaurants ranging from €7-€15 per person. Grocery shopping is also reasonably priced, with fresh produce and meat available at local markets and supermarkets.
Transportation
Portugal has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, with buses, trains, and subways available in most major cities. A monthly pass for public transportation in Lisbon, for example, costs around €40.
Utilities
Electricity, gas, and water bills are generally lower in Portugal compared to other European countries. Internet and phone plans are also reasonably priced, with several providers offering affordable packages.
Overall, the cost of living in Portugal can be significantly lower than in other Western European countries. This makes it an attractive destination for retirees, digital nomads, and young families who are looking for a more affordable place to live. However, it’s worth noting that prices can vary depending on the region and city, with more popular areas being more expensive. Nevertheless, overall, Portugal offers a great balance between affordability and quality of life.
A High Quality Of Life
Portugal consistently ranks highly in international surveys for its high quality of life and for good reason. Here are some of the key factors that contribute to Portugal’s high quality of life:
Healthcare
Portugal has a public healthcare system that is free or low-cost for residents, and the country also has several private healthcare providers. The quality of care is generally good, and Portugal ranks highly in global healthcare rankings.
Safety
Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low levels of crime and a stable political environment. This makes it an attractive destination for families and retirees looking for a peaceful and secure place to live.
Culture
Portugal has a rich cultural heritage, with several UNESCO World Heritage sites, museums, and galleries to explore. The country is also known for its vibrant music scene and lively festivals, such as the famous Festa de São João in Porto.
Education
Portugal has a good education system, with several highly-ranked universities and schools. The country also offers a range of international schools for ex-pat families.
Nature
People move to Portugal for its stunning natural landscapes, including its beaches, mountains, and national parks. This makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, surfing, and other activities.
Social Life
Portugal has a strong sense of community, and social events and gatherings are an important part of Portuguese culture. The country has a thriving ex-pat community, making it easy for newcomers to make friends and find support networks.
Overall, Portugal offers a high quality of life that is difficult to match in other countries. From excellent healthcare and safety to a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes, Portugal has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retirement destination or a vibrant place to raise a family, Portugal is definitely worth considering.
Easy Access To Other European Countries
One of the key advantages of living in Portugal is its location and easy access to other European countries. Here are some more details about the accessibility of other European countries from Portugal:
Transportation
Portugal has a well-developed transportation network that makes it easy to travel to other European countries. The country has several international airports, including Lisbon and Porto, which offer direct flights to many European cities. In addition, Portugal has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, which makes it easy to travel domestically and internationally by train, bus, or subway.
Proximity
Portugal is located on the western edge of Europe, which makes it an ideal base for exploring other parts of the continent. The country is particularly well-positioned for travel to Spain, France, and Italy, which are all just a short flight or train ride away. Also easy to find direct flights from Portugal to the US and Canada.
Schengen Agreement
Portugal is a signatory to the Schengen Agreement, which means that citizens and residents of Portugal can travel freely to other countries in the Schengen Area without the need for a visa. This makes it easy for ex-pats in Portugal to explore other European countries without the hassle of visa applications and other bureaucratic procedures.
Overall, easy access to other European countries is a major advantage of living in Portugal. Whether you’re looking to explore the rest of the continent or simply want to take a weekend trip to another country, Portugal’s location and transportation infrastructure make it an ideal base for travel.
Rich History And Culture
Another reason Americans move to Portugal is known for its welcoming and friendly culture, which is the key reason why many people choose to move to the country. Here are some more details about the welcoming nature of Portugal:
Hospitality
Portuguese people are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors and ex-pats. It’s common for locals to go out of their way to help newcomers settle in, whether it’s offering recommendations for places to visit or inviting them to social events.
Language
Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, and while English is widely spoken, many locals appreciate it when ex-pats make an effort to learn Portuguese. The language barrier can be a challenge for some newcomers, but most people find that locals are patient and understanding when it comes to communication.
Community
Portugal has a strong sense of community, and this is particularly evident in smaller towns and villages. It’s common for neighbors to know each other and to look out for one another, which can be comforting for newcomers who are adjusting to a new environment.
Overall, the welcoming and friendly culture of Portugal can make the process of moving to a new country much easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for assistance with settling in or simply want to connect with locals and other ex-pats, Portugal offers a warm and welcoming environment that is difficult to find in other countries.
Growing Expat Community
The combination of affordability, quality of life, warm climate, beautiful beaches, welcoming culture, and easy access to other European countries make Portugal an attractive destination for Americans to move to. It’s no surprise that the ex-pat community in Portugal continues to grow each year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is really clear that Portugal is a popular destination for many people looking to relocate. The country offers a variety of benefits such as a warm climate, beautiful beaches, affordable cost of living, high quality of life, easy access to other European countries, and a growing ex-pat community.
With its rich cultural heritage, welcoming culture, and well-developed infrastructure, Portugal is a great place for people from all walks of life to settle down and enjoy the many benefits the country has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a sunny retirement destination, a place to raise a family, or simply a change of scenery, Portugal is a great choice for anyone looking to start a new chapter in their life.
Are you considering a change of location? Take a look at our blog post discussing life in Turkey, Why Turkiye is the NEW Retirement Hotspot You Need To Know About and Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa: Everything You Need to Know.