Barbara Queiróz Updated: October 27, 2025
If you are considering moving to Portugal, you will delight in what this stunning country in Western Europe has to offer. Portugal’s unique blend of warm and welcoming locals, traditional Portuguese cuisine, and affordable cost of living offers an exceptional quality of life that’s sure to steal your heart.
With a fantastic climate, pristine landscapes, and an easygoing vibe it’s easy to understand why the Portugal quality of life is so attractive. The country boasts some of the best beaches in the world dotting the Atlantic Ocean, including Praia da Falésia in Albufeira, Algarve, which was voted best beach in the world in TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.
In this article, we’ll delve into the top ten reasons to move to Portugal and why life in Portugal is highly sought after by expats from across the world.
1. The Perfect Climate
Want to know “Is Portugal a nice place to live?” Most of the mainland has warm summers and temperate winters. The Algarve coast boasts more than 300 days of sublime sunshine annually, where you can regularly sit out in just a t-shirt, even in January. The average maximum temperature is 16 Degrees C (61 Degrees F) during January and February, while temperatures in the Algarve region could reach 29 Degrees C (84 Degrees F) in July and August.
The Mediterranean climate of Portugal is one of the key reasons why tourists and foreign citizens flock to Portugal’s shores. Additionally, there are many celebrities who bought homes in Portugal because of the sunny weather, warm climate, and welcoming Portuguese people. The list of high-profile property owners includes Sir Cliff Richard and Bonnie Taylor, Nicole Kidman, Madonna, Scarlett Johansson, and Portuguese footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo, who purchased a home valued at approximately €20 million in Cascais, about 20 minutes from the capital city of Lisbon.
While Northern Portugal is also warm, particularly compared to most European countries, it can get cold in the winter months. However, with beaches dotted across the country, including in the north, it is usually possible to don a coat, head out, and enjoy the day.
If you are moving to Portugal as a family, there are always exciting outdoor activities you can enjoy together. Expect days exploring nature with your children, be it hiking, biking, or trying out different watersport activities. Find out more about the best hiking routes in our article on the best hiking trails in Portugal.
2. Friendly Locals
Looking for more reasons to move to Portugal? According to Condé Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards, Portugal is ranked the seventh friendliest country in Europe and recognized as a must-visit for travelers seeking to explore the authentic coastal and urban European culture Portugal stands for.
If you need directions, help with public transportation, or general information on the best things to see in a city, you will realize that the locals are very kind, friendly, and helpful, and it will be easy to find someone to provide sound advice.
Many Portuguese residents and Portuguese people speak English, particularly the younger generation, so you should have no problem getting by. If you do manage to learn how to speak the Portuguese language online or through international schools, it is an excellent way of impressing the locals and will help you integrate better into the country.
The large expat population is another key reason why English is widely spoken. According to a report by the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA), the foreign resident population in Portugal increased by 33.6 percent from 2022 to 2023 and is currently totaling about 1,044606 expats.
3. The Seventh Safest Country in the World
The quality of life in Portugal is very high. As per the Global Peace Index 2024, Portugal was ranked as the seventh safest country in the world and is also ranked 26th on the Quality of Life Index 2024.
Portugal has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, especially the two autonomous Portuguese islands, Madeira and Azores, which are renowned for being safe and hospitable places to consider living in Portugal as an expat. Portugal stands at 28th on the 2025 Numbeo Crime Index by Country, with a 31.2 percent crime rate and an overall safety index of 68.8 percent. You can expect low to moderate levels of petty theft in major cities like Lisbon, but overall, Portugal is known for having low levels of serious offenses and violent crime.
Portugal is also a very safe and welcoming country for LGBTQI+ individuals, and is considered to be one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world.
4. Affordable Cost of Living
Wondering why do people move to Portugal? For an EU country, the cost of living in Portugal is very affordable, taking into consideration everything from property affordability to daily essentials.
However, it is important to note that the cost of living in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city, is higher than in other parts of the country.
A couple earning a joint average salary of €1,700 per month can live well in Portugal’s interior cities while a couple living in Lisbon can live comfortably on an average joint salary of around €2,100, given that the average monthly costs of a single person living in Lisbon total about €736 (this monthly total is even lower in other parts of the country). If you are single, you can get by on €1,200 per month in a busier city and even less in the country’s quieter towns. Even in major cities like Lisbon, the cost of living in Portugal is still cheaper compared to similar cities in the US. For example, the cost of living in Washington, DC is about 40 percent higher.
When it comes to eating out, you should be able to find many places where you can eat very well for under €10 for lunch, which will likely include a coffee and a sobremesa (desert). Public transport is also affordable and convenient, with excellent metro card deals in Lisbon and Porto.
Portugal healthcare and education are also affordable compared to neighboring countries. According to Numbeo, Portugal ranks 21st in the 2025 Health Care Index and Portugal spends around €3,833 per capita (average per person) in global health expenditure annually.
If you live in Portugal as a permanent resident or have Portuguese citizenship you will be covered under the National Health Service (SNS). Although the medical care is usually free, you must pay more for specific procedures, such as X-rays and scans and of course need to have medical insurance or pay extra to visit private clinics.
Additionally, if you are moving to Portugal with family, education fees are typically around €400 to €1700 a year for private international schools.
The cost of living in Portugal vs USA is one of the reasons why Portugal is considered one of the best countries for American expats to move to, as living costs are about 32 percent cheaper in Portugal than in the USA (including rent), according to Numbeo. Portugal is also one of the easiest countries to relocate to, with several visa options available.
If you have your heart set on the stunning Algarve region, you can check out our article to get a feel for the cost of living in the capital of the region, Faro: Cost of Living in Faro, Portugal.
If you are seeking a quieter retreat in the Algarve, Tavira may be the best option for you. Our article on the Cost of Living in Tavira explains the cost of living in this Eastern city.
Interested in the Portuguese real estate market? Discover everything you need to know.
5. Beautiful Landscapes and Beaches
Portugal wouldn’t be half of what it is without its beautiful, diverse landscapes that stretch from Northern Portugal to the Southern region, including sublime beaches, jaw-dropping cliffs, and stunning national parks in Portugal. You can enjoy dazzling natural scenery wherever you are in the country. Perhaps the relatively small size of Portugal is to thank for the proximity to incredible nature, wherever you may live in the country.
Located on the southern coast of mainland Portugal, the Algarve region is known for its simply stunning beaches, sun filled days, and wealth of Portuguese history. The Algarve has become a touristic hotspot and is famed for the area’s world-class gold courses and being a dream destination for water sports such as surfing, kayaking and waterskiing.
So, is Portugal a good country to live in? In the Western region of Portugal, between Porto’s Green Coast and the Lisbon Coast, the Silver Coast has incredible cliffs and quieter, peaceful air. The Silver Coast is conveniently located for anyone who wants to have easy access to major cities yet experience a relaxed pace of life. The best place to live on Portugal’s Silver Coast will depend on your lifestyle, with Ericeira popular with remote workers, while Peniche is perfect for those seeking an authentic lifestyle with a strong community feel.
Additionally, the natural parks across the country, like Arrábida Natural Park or the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, each make Portugal a very picturesque place to live if you like sweeping views, nature walks, and close proximity to the ocean.
If you are wondering what the best cities to live in Portugal are, it is best to visit the country, as each city will offer something different depending on your lifestyle.
6. Steeped in History
Portugal has a long history — there are remains of Moorish design, Roman influences, and even impressions from the Celts. If you visit any town in Portugal, you will likely see some historic artifacts. Take Porto, for example, called “Portus Cale” in Roman times, and Coimbra, where you have the impressive Roman aqueduct. The Moorish castle in Sintra and countless Moorish influences, particularly in southern Portugal, further highlight the country’s rich history. History buffs, and even those not so interested in history, will be thrilled to piece together the rich fabric of the country.
7. Favorable Tax Benefits
Although it came to an end to an end in January 2024, the Non-Habitual Residence (NHR tax regime) has been an excellent program that attracted many expats to Portugal with attractive tax benefits. The regime was first implemented in 2009 to attract investors and expats to boost the country’s international competitiveness. Individuals could reap significant tax benefits, including incentives from income tax payable to the Portuguese government for up to ten years, if structured correctly.
In January 2024, the Portuguese government’s State Budget Proposal included modifications that determine the end of the non-habitual resident regime. However, anyone who registered as a tax resident in the country in 2023 and had not been taxed in Portugal in the previous five years can still apply by March 31, 2025, and will have NHR status from the date that they become a tax resident whether that’s in 2024 or in the first quarter of 2025 until December 31, 2033. You can learn more about these changes in the Full Guide to Non-Habitual Tax Resident Portugal by Global Citizen Solutions.
Crypto traders will be pleased to know that Portugal is one of the best countries for cyrptocurrency, with it even possible to purchase property with crypto. You can find out more in our article on Portugal crypto taxes.
8. The Rich Lifestyle and Gastronomy
Portugal has an excellent Mediterranean cuisine that is perhaps somewhat overlooked in favor of better-known Italian and Spanish foods. However, with a focus on fresh fish, seafood, fruits, and vegetables, Portugal can compete with the best.
The wines in Portugal are also exceptional — try the rich Douro, fruity Alentejo, or Vinho Verde (green wine), and you will be instantly converted.
The Portuguese also have a love for art and music. Whatever you are into, you will likely find it in Portugal, from classic and historical art exhibitions to more modern influences and international exhibitions in the larger cities.
Living in Portugal offers something to enjoy for everyone. From music festivals and concerts attracting the most prominent international stars onto the stage to candle-lit evenings in Alfama, the old town of Lisbon, where you can enjoy emotive Fado music that transcends language barriers whether you speak Portuguese or not.
9. Perfect Destination for Families
Besides being an excellent tourist destination, the country has an excellent education system and there are many outstanding international schools and top-quality universities in Portugal, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, making these areas the perfect places for many young families and expats to settle down in.
Being able to spend much of the year outside is another significant advantage of moving to Portugal with a family. Imagine sunny beach days, hiking in the Sintra mountains, or relaxing by the pool. There are many activities to get involved in.
What’s more, perhaps most important, is that the Portuguese are very family centered. It is prevalent for young people to head to their parents or grandparents for a typical Portuguese lunch on Sundays, so expect to strengthen family ties if you live in Portugal.
10. Retiring in Portugal
So, is Portugal a good place to live? Portugal has long been favored as a top retirement destination. What could be better than countless sunny days, excellent food, and significant tax benefits? Whether your passions are golf, hiking, or yoga, there are many clubs and communities that you can enroll in and meet fellow expats to get to know people in the country. The golf courses are amongst the best in the world, with individuals coming from the world over to dust off their golf clubs.
Overall, the quality of life in Portugal is exceptionally high for both local and foreign retirees. According to the Global Citizen Solutions Passport Index, Portugal ranks 13th for quality of living, making it an attractive and trendy country among expats for many reasons.
Can foreigners buy property in Portugal? Find out in our complete guide.
Regional Differences & Best Places to Live in Portugal
Many people wonder why live in Portugal, when you can choose other European countries like the United Kingdom or Spain. What are the regional differences that set Portugal apart from the rest?
Greater Lisbon (Lisboa) – This is a cosmopolitan area with the largest job market, excellent infrastructure, and a higher cost of living. It is the most expensive region in Portugal, but it remains the biggest attraction for digital nomads, property investors, and expats.
Northern Portugal (Porto & Braga) – This area has a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life than Lisbon. However, it has wetter winters with cooler temperatures. Many families, including remote workers, choose to settle here.
The Algarve (Faro, Lagos, Albufeira) – This area has the warmest climate, the biggest expat community, but it is the most expensive during peak tourist season. Nevertheless, beach lovers prioritize it over any other area for a great social life and outdoor adventures.
Central Portugal (Coimbra, Silver Coast) – This area is all about the coastal lifestyle that is more affordable than the Algarve or Lisbon. Academics, retirees, and history enthusiasts prefer to settle here.
Why work with Goldcrest?
Goldcrest is a local buyer’s agent based in Lisbon that provides insightful real estate expertise and strategic advice. From sourcing to property acquisition, we offer a tailor-made service for our clients, assisting them in identifying outstanding investment opportunities in some of Portugal’s finest locations, from relocation to investment projects.
- Local knowledge: With offices located across Portugal, our presence nationwide allows us to assist you personally across the country.
- Independent service: As an independent buying agent, we do not represent any development or project. Our service is entirely tailored toward each individual client, providing you with everything you need to secure the right property at the best possible price. As an impartial advisor on the market, we work solely on behalf of our client and provide a service tailored to your needs and requirements.
- Streamlined process: We have a team of estate agents in Portugal, and our service is completely focused on providing you with a hassle-free buying experience, saving you time.
- Experienced team: Our expert real estate team has a vast local knowledge of the Portuguese property market. We have cutting-edge technology and metasearch tools at your disposal to provide full market coverage, ensuring the best real estate in Portugal is at your fingertips.
- Network of partners: Lawyers, property management services, builders, architects, designers, and landscape gardeners, again saving you time and hassle by providing you with trusted experts in their field of work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal Quality of Life
Is Portugal a good place to live in?
Living in Portugal can be a great experience, especially for expats. The country offers a high quality of life with its warm weather, friendly people, and affordable living. But do have in mind that there are a few obstacles you are going to face, like the slow bureaucratic system and the fact that not many citizens know English, mainly outside major cities.
Where is the best place to live in Portugal?
Picking the best places to live in Portugal really depends on what you’re looking for, but many people love these three spots: Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, which gives you a true city experience. Porto is second by size and more affordable than Lisbon, while the Algarve is an excellent option for its golden beaches.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Portugal?
A couple with a solid, mid-range income can live well in Portugal’s interior cities for around €1,700 per month. In Lisbon, a couple can live for €2,100 per month. If you are single, you can get by on €1,200 per month in a busier city and even less in the country’s quieter towns.
How is the Portugal lifestyle?
In Portugal, you can enjoy a more relaxed, Mediterranean lifestyle. The climate is comfortable, living costs are relatively affordable, and the people are very welcoming. Expats usually prefer the laid-back atmosphere and stunning coastlines. But it can be hard to take a slower pace of life in major cities.
What are the cons of living in Portugal?
If you work in Portugal, the salaries can be lower than in other Western European countries. However, living in Portugal as an expat is much more affordable than in other EU countries, from properties to daily essentials. It is worth noting that if you are working freelance or remotely, you will be able to live very well.
Although Portugal has a warm climate, it can get cold in the winter months if your house does not have sufficient insulation. It is worth making sure to invest in a sound heating system.
Another con is that Portugal is notorious for bureaucracy, so navigating through paperwork can be a hassle. Our book, Your Expert Guide to Buying a Property in Portugal, has everything that you will need to know about securing the perfect property for you, including tips to navigate the bureaucratic system.
How is the quality of life in Portugal?
Portugal presents an exceptional combination of exquisite culinary delights, stunning natural surroundings, and a relaxed way of living. Boasting a pleasant climate, reasonable living expenses compared to other Western European countries, and a hospitable society. Portugal’s quality of life is an appealing choice for property investors. For families, Portugal also offers excellent options for international schools and Portuguese universities.
Is it better to live in Spain or Portugal (Spain versus Portugal quality of life)?
Both Portugal and Spain are excellent choices to live in and choosing which country is better depends on what lifestyle factors you value. The cost of living is six percent higher in Spain than the cost of living in Portugal, according to Numbeo, and Portugal real estate is also slightly cheaper, however both locations offer growing real estate markets.
Portugal is also slightly safer than Spain, ranking higher on the 2024 Global Peace Index (Portugal is ranked 7th, while Spain is ranked 23rd. You will find stunning beaches and natural sights in both locations as well as thriving arts and culture scenes, world-class gastronomy, and a thriving tourist industry. You are also able to relocate to either country via a Spain or Portugal Golden Visa program. Both Spain and Portugal are also known to have some of the friendliest people in the world.
Why do people move to Portugal?
The main reasons people are moving to Portugal are the superior quality of life, comfortable lifestyle, and affordable living costs. People are welcoming to foreigners who seek a better work-life balance, quality healthcare, and delicious cuisine. Besides, Portugal is a safe place to visit and live.
What are the benefits of living in Portugal?
For many expats, Portugal is the best country to live in. Life here offers plenty of advantages, such as high safety standards, a relaxed lifestyle, welcoming communities, and a very comfortable Mediterranean climate. The healthcare system is something you can rely on, lots of people speak English, and the food is exquisite.
What are the dangers of living in Portugal?
Portugal is currently the seventh most peaceful country in the world and is a very safe place to live. In the tourist areas in the bigger cities, you may need to be extra aware of pickpocketing as you would in any other tourist destination.
What is the downside of retiring to Portugal?
Portugal offers a peaceful retirement environment with a slow pace of life; however, this might not suit every retiree’s preference. There is also a need to carry cash as some places do not accept Visa or Mastercard, which can be an inconvenience. In the smaller towns, English speakers are also less common, which might make it difficult to communicate.
Are there any specific cultural customs or etiquette to be aware of in Portugal?
While Portugal does not have any extreme culture shocks in relation to most countries, there are certain norms that would be best to respect as an expat looking to blend into a new community, such as making sure to be polite when interacting with people. Embracing and respecting local culture and traditions by learning a few phrases in the Portuguese language and informing yourself on some of the country’s history will also be appreciated by the local community.
