Updated: September 27, 2024
Whether it’s because of the relaxed pace of life, pristine beaches, or the relatively low cost of living in this beautiful Western European Union (EU) country, there are many Americans moving to Portugal from the USA.
Portuguese life offers an array of perks – Portugal is considered in many ways the best country to live in – and US citizens are increasing in number, finding the country to be the perfect place to call home.
If you’re looking to visit Portugal, are thinking of relocating, or are curious about why living in Portugal as an American is so popular – or as British citizens and other foreign nationals, for that matter – keep reading to find out more about the Portuguese lifestyle.
Why Expats Are Living in Portugal
While the cost of living in Portugal is relatively low for Americans, especially compared to most other European countries, expats aren’t pulled in solely for financial reasons. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals, Americans come to love the vibrant Portuguese culture of this Western EU country.
Factor in good food found in traditional Portuguese restaurants, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle in Southern Europe, plus the fact that Portuguese people speak English, and Portugal becomes a firm favorite – indeed, living in Portugal as an expat is, for many, as good as it gets.
The Best Places to Live in Portugal as an Expat
From affordable city life or luxury living to historic towns and breathtaking beach houses along the Atlantic Ocean, expat life in Portugal provides you with an array of stunning locations and property types.
American expats tend to favor the urban cities of mainland Portugal – Lisbon and Porto – when looking for the best neighborhoods in Portugal to live in. With this said, the Algarve region, with its booming tourism sector, has also proved to be a firm favorite with Americans in the past few years.
Like other European countries, Portugal is extremely safe, offers excellent transportation links, and is offers plenty of business opportunities, as many citizens and residents in Portugal speak English, plus key cities have moved into the limelight as being top tech hubs in Europe, such as Lisbon, Porto, and Braga.
If you are moving with your family, you will find an array of top international schools, particularly in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. However, the countryside in North and Central Portugal is also becoming an excellent option for American expats looking to unwind in the beautiful Portuguese countryside. Here are some of the popular places to live in Portugal among Americans.
Lisbon
The cosmopolitan capital of Lisbon is a city of contrasts. With cultural traditions on one side and youthful innovation and urban flair on the other, the bustling city is constantly pushing boundaries while keeping its historic essence alive. Indeed, many international startups are relocating to make the most of the business opportunities here.
The capital is forever welcoming Americans, regardless of whether they have moved to work, study, live, or retire.
The cost of living in Lisbon is higher than in the rest of Portugal – especially when it comes to buying Lisbon real estate – although it remains affordable when compared to other European countries and major US cities.
Each neighborhood has its own quirks, and choosing the right one for you will depend on your interests and what you are looking for. Are you looking for a place to move to with your family, set up a business, work as a digital nomad, or retire in a stunning European capital?
You can see our guide to the best neighborhoods in Lisbon: Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon.
Also, if you are relocating with children, you can find out more about the international schools in Lisbon.
Cascais
Very close to Lisbon (just a short 30-minute drive away), you will come across the former fishing village of Cascais.
Despite having more than 200,000 inhabitants, Cascais still retains a village feel, with traditional architecture, excellent seafood restaurants, and nine golf courses close by, making it a very attractive destination for Americans relocating to Portugal.
For families, Cascais real estate offers plenty of options – there are spacious mansions and waterfront villas to be found here and excellent schools within a twenty-minute drive.
Porto
The dynamic city of Porto has really come into its own over the last few years – now on par with Lisbon as being considered the most beautiful city in Portugal, and with good reason.
The historic city is stunning, with gorgeous beaches showcasing the city’s natural beauty, local markets, activities on offer, and delicious Portuguese wine to drink in the Port wine houses along the River Douro in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Porto real estate is booming, and there are many excellent waterfront properties to be found here, making it a particularly attractive destination to settle – check out the Foz Do Douro neighborhood (other excellent locations for waterfront properties in Portugal can be found in our article: Waterfront Homes in Portugal: The Best Locations).
The Algarve
The beautiful Algarve coast is renowned for its pristine beaches, stunning landscapes, and year-round sunshine, even in the depths of winter. A firm favorite with tourists and well-known amongst British expats- many Americans have now discovered the region and come to call the Algarve home.
Algarve real estate is also much desired. In the Central Algarve, Vilamoura is popular amongst expats and has an array of luxury properties on offer. As a resort town with a 1,000-berth marina, golf courses galore, luxury hotels, and beach clubs, it is an excellent location to consider.
Families with children can also have peace of mind knowing that there are 12 Algarve international schools to choose from, each providing a high-quality and culturally enriching education.
It is also worth researching Albufeira, characterized by its cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and where something is always going on in the evenings. Both Vilamoura and Albufeira are conveniently close to Faro Airport, which is an added bonus for avid travelers.
Lagos, in the Western Algarve is the perfect spot for nature lovers, where you’ll be enthralled by the unique Benagil Caves. The Eastern Algarve provides a more authentic Portuguese experience, the standout city being Tavira, with its distinctive whitewashed buildings and blue façades.
Moving to Portugal
There are several reasons why Americans are seeking to relocate to Portugal. Here, we delve into some of the most prevalent reasons why this beautiful country is becoming a haven for American expats.
- Cost of living in Portugal vs USA: Compared to the US, the cost of living in Portugal is really cheap, even if prices are rising in Lisbon in particular. Portugal is also affordable compared to other Mediterranean countries.
- Welcoming people: The Portuguese are renowned for their friendliness, and in general, they speak very good English. This is important for US expats looking to navigate a new country. Also, as there is a big American expat community, there is a supportive network for newcomers.
- Good healthcare system: Portugal has a very good healthcare system that extends to all legal residents. Both public and private healthcare are very affordable when compared with healthcare in the US.
- A safe and stable country: Portugal ranked as the seventh safest country in the world according to the 2024 Global Peace Index and has very low crime rates.
- Climate: Many expats move to Portugal for its pleasant Mediterranean climate, stunning landscapes, and pristine beaches. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing; even in winter, the sun will welcome you outside. It rarely gets extremely hot by the coast, given the cooling breeze of the Atlantic.
International schools
American families moving to Portugal may want to enroll their children in a school that teaches in English or offers an American curriculum that offers Portuguese in addition. When looking into American schools in Portugal, you should know that there are many excellent international schools, particularly in Lisbon and Porto.
Two very good options to consider in the Lisbon area are the Carlucci American International School of Lisbon and the International Schools of Cascais.
The American Embassy in Portugal
The American Embassy can be found in Lisbon for US citizens who need consular services. Note that if you are coming to the embassy for a routine matter, then you should schedule an appointment ahead of time online on the US Embassy website.
For a more urgent situation, you can go directly to US Citizen Services, then you can go to the US Embassy, located at Avenida das Forças in Sete-Rios. Take the blue line on Lisbon’s Metro to get there.
For the full list of services and more information for US citizens, you can consult the website or email conslisbon@state.gov.
Living in Portugal as an Expat: Pros and Cons
There are numerous advantages to living in Portugal as an expat: Warm weather, golden beaches, breathtaking scenery, a low crime rate, a relatively low cost of living, and a great quality of life. Portugal’s healthcare and education systems are well-developed, and Portuguese residents can benefit from tax exemptions.
Some disadvantages include the need to learn the Portuguese language, should you be living outside hotspot locations where English is not as widely spoken, and needing to carry cash on you in some situations.
Take a closer look at some of the main pros and cons of living in Portugal.
Advantages of living in Portugal (pros)
Outlined above are just a few of the advantages of moving to Portugal. Here, we’ll discuss the main advantages that attract expats from all over the world.
Warm climate
While the climate does vary from region to region, Portugal’s overall climate is quite warm. The Algarve is known for almost year-long warm summers and very mild winters, perfect for those who prefer sunny weather. Lisbon and Porto generally experience hot, dry summers and short, rainy winters.
The warmest season in Portugal lasts from around mid-June to late September, with daily average temperatures exceeding 25 degrees Celsius (78 degrees F).
These months are also the sunniest. In Lisbon, the average daily temperature during winter is around 14 degrees C (57.2 Degrees F). If you’re looking for a snowy winter, the mountainous areas are sure to deliver.
Entertainment and recreation
Portugal is host to endless sights and activities to keep you entertained during your time there. You can swim in the Atlantic Ocean, explore the mountain ranges, visit castles and fortresses, and go hiking. You could even take your lead from the locals who enjoy fishing, surfing, and diving.
In 2024, Portugal received 24 World Travel Awards for its attractions, beaches, and resorts. Included in the list of winners was Lisbon, taking the title of Europe’s leading city destination for 2024.
Safety and low crime rate
In 2024, Portugal secured the 7th position on the Global Peace Index, underscoring the country’s commitment to peace and social harmony. With a low crime rate, Portugal provides a safe haven for residents and visitors alike.
The warm hospitality of the Portuguese people adds to the appeal, creating a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and expats who have come to call Portugal their home.
By choosing this Western European country as their residence, many foreigners discover a unique combination of safety, the unique Portugal quality of life, and a rich cultural experience. This makes Portugal one of the most attractive destinations globally for both living and tourism.
The country’s charm extends beyond its peaceful environment, offering a diverse range of natural landscapes, historic cities, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether drawn to the stunning beaches, picturesque mountains, or the renowned culinary offerings, those who make Portugal their home often find a harmonious blend of security and cultural richness in this captivating European destination.
Affordable cost of living
As with any country, the cost of living in Portugal varies depending on the area you live in and the lifestyle you lead. In general, however, the cost of living in Portugal is relatively low compared to other Western European countries.
The table below will give you an idea of the average prices that make Portugal an affordable country.
Expenses | Average Price |
Dinner for two at a good restaurant | €40 |
Bread | €1.36 |
A dozen eggs | €2.74 |
Local cheese (1kg) | €10.09 |
1L of milk | €0.93 |
Apples (1kg) | €21.98 |
Cappuccino | €1.82 |
1L of petrol | €1.69 |
Utilities (electricity, water, heating, cooling, garbage) for 85 square meter apartment | €116 |
Unlimited internet bill | €38.09 |
Gym membership (monthly) | €37.07 |
Quality education
In terms of education, Portugal offers high-quality secondary and higher education systems. Degrees from Portuguese universities are recognized across the EU, making it easier for graduates looking to work in other EU countries.
Many university courses are taught in both Portuguese and English, although English courses are not available at every institution. Portugal applies the standards of the European Bologna System in its higher education system. You can read more about universities in Portugal in our article: Universities in Portugal.
Excellent healthcare
The Global Health Expenditure 2023 states that Portugal spends about 9.53 percent of its GDP per annum on healthcare. The Portuguese healthcare system (Serviço Nacional de Saúde) is generally excellent.
You can uncover the secrets of the Portuguese healthcare system in our easy-to-digest guide, put together by our partners, Global Citizen Solutions.
Medical care is free at public hospitals and available to Portuguese residents and Portuguese citizens. Europeans can also make use of the European Health Insurance Card. In healthcare clinics with private health insurance, you can benefit from a higher level of service and the ability to get appointments faster than in public hospitals. You can also have consultations with your doctor over the phone.
There are different private health insurance policies available in Portugal, offering different packages at different prices. Most of them cover a good portion of the full cost of treatment. Americans moving to Portugal will be pleasantly surprised by the affordability of private health insurance options in Portugal.
English is widely spoken
English is widely spoken among Portuguese people, making it easy to communicate even if you are not fluent in European Portuguese. This helps Americans living in Portugal – as well as other English-speaking expats – to adapt quickly without having to learn Portuguese before moving.
Quality of life
Portugal is a country that offers much in the way of the pace of life. With a generally slow pace present in the country, you can still get your fix of the hustle and bustle in cities like Lisbon or enjoy a more laidback lifestyle in places like the Algarve.
Disadvantages of living in Portugal (cons)
As with most countries in the world, the advantages of living there are accompanied by some disadvantages. When moving to any country, it is crucial to understand the drawbacks. Here are some of the bad things about living in Portugal.
Learning Portuguese
While the English language is widely spoken in Portugal, we recommend you take time to familiarize yourself with the local language to fully immerse yourself in the country and culture. Plus, many people in government offices speak Portuguese and are not familiar with English, making it slightly more challenging to get things done if you or someone with you does not speak a basic level of the Portuguese language.
While this can be daunting, it’s never a bad idea to learn the official language of the country you live in. If you are to learn Portuguese, locals usually go out of their way to assist you with mastering the language.
Cards versus cash
The Multibanco system issues bank cards in Portugal, and Visa and MasterCards are not accepted everywhere. It is advisable to, therefore, carry cash with you and check whether an international bank card is accepted. It is also recommended to open a Portuguese bank account in the first few months of arriving in Portugal.
Lack of central heating
Apartments are generally cold inside during the winter, as the older properties generally have no central heating system. When looking for a property to rent or purchase, pay special attention to insulation and other heating amenities that will help keep you warm in colder weather.
Bureaucracy and pace of life
Portuguese bureaucracy is a point of concern whether you’re a Portuguese citizen, a Portuguese resident, or a foreigner. Appointments can be difficult to get, applications can move slowly, and paperwork takes time. This is important to remember if perhaps you are used to a faster pace in your home country.
Portugal offers a slow pace of life that may not appeal to everyone, but you will soon get accustomed to Portuguese life should you move to Portugal and come to appreciate the time taken to enjoy your morning coffee or a long lunch with friends.
Living in Portugal as an Expat: How to find property in Portugal?
Moving to any country is difficult, and for Americans, there are many potential difficulties – whether it is the language barrier, navigating taxes and fees in a new country, or getting to grips with the bureaucratic system, which can be slow in Portugal.
Firstly, the Portuguese are very welcoming people and speak very good English, so the process of buying property should not be as daunting as you may assume. Secondly, it is worth having an experienced lawyer on your side, alongside a trusted financial advisor and estate agent.
A buyer’s agent is also highly recommended. At Goldcrest, we work solely for the client and provide tailored advice based on what the buyer is looking for – whether it is to retire, relocate, or invest in the country. We are an established player in the market, so please get in touch to discuss how we can work with you to secure your dream property in Portugal. You can book a call with us today.
Closing Insights: How to Move to Portugal from USA
Living in Portugal offers a variety of advantages for those considering the move. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Portugal ranks in seventh position, proving safety and tranquility as a reassuring factor for many young families, retirees, and digital nomads leaning towards expat Portugal.
Portugal’s diverse climate caters to varied preferences, with northern regions offering an average temperature of 10-12 Degrees C (50-54 Degrees F) and the southern parts providing a warmer 16-18 Degrees C (60-65 Degrees F) on average.
The Portuguese immigration process for foreign citizens is notably straightforward, welcoming expats through various visa options. A few options for Portuguese visas include the residence by investment program, the Portugal Golden Visa, the Digital Nomad Visa (D8) for remote workers who work for international companies, and the Portugal D7 Visa for retirees and other expats who do not have Portuguese source incomes but otherwise earn sufficient passive income into their bank account.
With the right assistance from a migration agency or buyer’s agent, the pathway to living in Portugal or even gaining Portuguese citizenship can be easily navigated.
Whether it’s the low cost of living, the pleasant climate, the strong expat community, or if you are simply looking for a fresh start in a delightful country, Portugal has cemented its left as one of the most desirable countries in Europe to live in, with stunning locations such as the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto, having caught the attention of expats from across the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Living in Portugal as an American
Can Americans move to Portugal?
Yes, Americans can move to Portugal. You will need to gain temporary residence if you plan to live in Portugal for more than three months.
The D7 and Digital Nomad Visa are both excellent Portuguese visa options. You can see our article on how to get Portuguese residency for more information. After five years, you can apply for a permanent residency permit and citizenship.
As a Portuguese citizen with a Portuguese passport, you have access to a wide range of benefits, including increased mobility and personal freedoms.
What is the best place to live in Portugal for Americans?
The average American expat living in Portugal tends to favor urban areas, such as Lisbon and Porto. The Algarve is also a popular destination, while the Silver Coast and more rural parts of the country are picking up interest from expats.
What are the possible jobs for Americans in Portugal?
Popular types of jobs in Portugal include tourism and hospitality-related work. Tech-related jobs and customer support jobs are frequently sought after, and freelance work is increasingly common.
Many international startups and tech companies moving to Portugal may also be searching for employees to help them expand their businesses.
Is Portugal a good place to live in?
Portugal is a safe country, and its residents enjoy many benefits, such as good healthcare, quality education, and a good quality of life. The Portuguese culture is also rich and vibrant. So yes, Portugal is considered one of the best places to live. There are many Portuguese visa options to secure Portuguese residency, including the Golden Visa program, the D7 Visa (also known as the Passive Income Visa), and the Digital Nomad Visa, making relocating to Portugal quite straightforward.
Is Portugal welcoming of foreigners?
Portugal stands out for being exceptionally friendly and hospitable to foreign residents. There are lots of different local activities and cultural events for expats to get involved in.
The major cities, namely Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, boast a range of expat groups and communities to help expats residing in the country feel more at home.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Portugal?
The amount of money needed to live comfortably in Portugal will depend on the area in which you live and the kind of lifestyle you lead. An individual can get by on an average salary of €1,200 per month in Portuguese cities such as Lisbon or Porto. However, this will depend greatly on your lifestyle. This amount is lower in Portugal’s quieter towns.
Can I just move to Portugal?
If you are not an EU citizen, you will need to obtain a temporary stay visa and later apply for a residency visa to move to Portugal.
There are different residency visa options offered by the Portuguese government to explore, such as the D7 Visa (also referred to as the Passive Income Visa) and the Portugal Golden Visa, to enable you to live in Portugal.
For the D7 Visa, you will need to have an initial appointment with your local Portuguese Consulate or Embassy – and apply for the temporary D7 Visa from your home country – before making the move. They will give you a temporary visa so that you can enter Portugal. After this, you will have an appointment with AIMA (Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum) once you are in Portugal to secure your Portuguese residence permit.
Is moving to Portugal worth it?
Moving to Portugal is definitely worth it. Not only does this delightful European country offer a great climate and stunning scenery, but it also provides an affordable cost of living, a high quality of life, a low crime rate, and a good healthcare system.
What are 10 bad things about Portugal?
While Portugal is a beautiful country, some challenges exist, including economic disparities, low salaries, slow bureaucracy, inadequate public services in more remote areas, traffic congestion in rush hour in major cities, occasional wildfires, and a potential language barrier, whereby you may need to learn basic Portuguese as outside the big cities they may not speak English.
These drawbacks should, however, be seen in a broader context as life in Portugal boasts countless advantages, from its sublime weather to its staggeringly beautiful landscapes.
Can I live in Portugal as a US citizen?
Yes, as a US citizen, you can live in Portugal. Portugal allows visa-free entry for short stays, and for longer stays, you can apply for a residence visa. Ensure compliance with Portuguese immigration regulations and consult your embassy for the most up-to-date information on residency requirements. If you are considering living in Portugal, good options for securing residency permits include the Portugal Golden Visa program, the D7 Visa, and the Digital Nomad Visa.
Is Portugal a good place to live?
Absolutely! Portugal is a fantastic place to live. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming communities, expatriates enjoy a high quality of life. Affordable living costs, pleasant weather, and a rich history make it an ideal destination for those seeking a fulfilling lifestyle.
Do a lot of Americans live in Portugal?
Portugal’s attractive lifestyle, affordable cost of living, and friendly locals draw an array of American expats, contributing to a diverse and welcoming international community.
Currently, there are well over 10,000 American residents living in Portugal, with the number of residents increasing by 16% this year alone.
Is it difficult to learn Portuguese?
Learning Portuguese to overcome the language barrier can vary in difficulty depending on your native language and previous language learning experience.
If you fully commit, you should be able to learn Portuguese to a good level fairly quickly, particularly if you have Portuguese friends who can help you with the nuances of the language.
Which documents are needed to move to Portugal?
While the exact documents needed to move to Portugal will vary depending on which visa you opt for, you can expect to need the following documents and information:
- Two recent photographs
- Your passport
- Your residence permit application form
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Evidence of accommodation
- A permit to access your criminal record
- Your tax history
- Evidence of medical insurance
- Social security document