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Living in Portugal: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Sao Bento Station in Porto, Portugal

Living in Portugal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 05, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Portugal is 10.3 million people. The largest cities in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, Amadora, Braga, and Coimbra. Expats love living in Portugal for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. People describe life in Portugal as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong sense of community. Popular foods in Portugal include seafood, such as bacalhau (salted cod), sardines, and octopus; stews, such as cozido à portuguesa; and desserts, such as pastéis de nata (custard tarts). The cons of living in Portugal include the high cost of living, especially in the larger cities, and the language barrier. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,000 to $2,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment.

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What do I need to know about living in Portugal?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Portugal, they said:

"It is basically an industrial town, so I do not live around Central. 20 minutes to Sao Pedro do Moel, which is a nice village on coast. Gets cold in winter months, amount of rain is okay," wrote one member in Marinha Grande.

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Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

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Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

How do I meet people in Portugal?

When we asked people living in Portugal about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Many expats in Portugal join social groups and local clubs specific to their interests and professions, such as book clubs, running clubs, wine tasting clubs, and even language exchange groups. For example, the Lisbon Expat Networking Club is an online group focused on networking, business, and career development for expats in Portugal. Other ways expats can meet people in Portugal is by attending cultural events or being involved in community activities. Many cities and towns across the country also offer language classes, which is a great way to meet people and improve language skills. Additionally, expats can reach out to other people through social media platforms and websites such as Expat.com," explained one expat living in Portugal.

"In my experience, restaurants and cafes afforded me the opportunity to meet new people, develop friendships, and practice speaking the language. At nearly every turn, I was able to find people willing to speak English with me and to offer useful help in developing the ability to speak Portuguese. For my part, I have not made any attempts to join expat communities. Instead, a little humility and lots of hard work trying to learn the language has opened doors to friends and families in the local community. All this began by trying to frequent the cafes and restaurants that had employees and clients who were willing to communicate," said one expat in Lisbon.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is life like in Portugal?

When we asked people living in Portugal what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"There's a little bit of everything in Lisboa (Lisbon). Public transportation is a must in this city. There are a number of outdoor cafes where you can enjoy a coffee and people-watch. However, sports is the priority in Lisbon. Futebol (Soccer) is king here. Sporting and Benfica are the top soccer teams in the city. Be careful about wearing green (Sporting colors) in the Benfica neighborhood," wrote one member in Lisbon.

"Expatriates and digital nomads who are living in Portugal find a balance between a modern local lifestyle and a relaxed Mediterranean one. With low cost of living and great weather, the country is a popular destination for many expats and digital nomads to live, work, and explore. From the bustling cities of Lisbon and Porto to the picturesque coastal towns, the diversity and culture of Portugal offer many opportunities to discover its traditional foods, landscapes, and people. Expats and digital nomads have access to excellent healthcare and education, as well as a vibrant expat community to help them settle in. For those looking for a location to work remotely, there is plenty of space in Portugal to get work done and stunning views to go along with it. Overall, Portugal provides a great experience for expats and digital nomads who are looking to experience a new culture, learn a language, and enjoy all the country has to offer," remarked one expat who made the move to Portugal.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Is there a lot of crime in Portugal?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Overall, Portugal is generally considered to be a safe country, with a low rate of violent crime. Petty crime does occur in Portugal, such as pickpocketing and theft, but statistics indicate it is generally in line with other European countries. Security and surveillance, particularly in busier urban areas, is mostly visible and effective," explained one expat living in Portugal.

"Little crime in Cascais. in Lisbon there is a fair amount of pickpocket crime but only in certain areas," said one expat in Cascais.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Portugal accepting of differences?

"Portugal is a culturally diverse nation with a range of backgrounds, languages, and ethnicities, including Native Portuguese and immigrant populations. Portuguese people are generally accepting of differences and actively seek to celebrate diversity, with a selection of cultural events hosted throughout the year in cities such as Lisbon, Porto and Coimbra. Portugal has a long history of tolerance and integration, making it an ideal place for diverse groups of people from around the world to find a sense of belonging," said one expat in Portugal.

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Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors
Connect

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What are the schools in Portugal like?

"I would look at other options. I find this school to be totally profit motivated and not customer driven at all. Basically, their philosophy is their way or the highway. On the upside, my children adore their teachers and are happy. That is the only positive point," commented one expat when asked about International School of the Algarve in Porches.

"We wanted a big enough school to give good opportunities for subject choices and team sports. We have been very please so far and the kids look forward to going to school every day," explained one expat in Porches, Portugal with kids at International School of the Algarve.

"The American International School of Lisbon (AISL) is one of the oldest and most respected international schools in Portugal. Founded in 1965, AISL is a bilingual school that offers an American-style educational program to students aged 4-18. It has an extensive language program and offers a range of extra-curricular activities. AISL is known for its commitment to preparing students for international universities. The International British School of Porto offers a British-style education to students aged 3-18. It is a bilingual school, with both English and Portuguese taught in the classroom, and it provides an excellent education for both local and international students. The school has an impressive array of extra-curricular activities, and its graduates regularly go on to prestigious universities. Lisbon's Anglo-American School (LAS) is a well-established, accredited international school that was founded in 1967. It is a bilingual school with both English and Portuguese integrating into the curriculum. In addition to a full academic program, LAS offers ambitious extracurricular activities, including sports, music and theatre. Finally, the International School of Macau is a bilingual school that has an excellent reputation among international students and parents. The school has been in operation since 1984 and offers an international curriculum with an emphasis on Chinese language and culture. It provides an inclusive academic program and a wide range of extra-curricular activities," wrote an expat living in with children attending .

"Look into other schools instead: Nobel and Aljezur are the only other international schools within a 30 minute radius. However, if you are British and looking to feel like you are still in Britain and not Portugal, you may enjoy the school as it is 85% British. The school lacks diversity and there is no integration with the local community or country in general. The teachers are largely not inspiring with some exceptions. The school is strict about the uniform. The school has terrible communication with parents," said one commented one expat when asked about Vale verde international in Burgau.

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Is the cost of living in Portugal high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Portugal, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Portugal is generally considered to be reasonably affordable. The cost of basic food items, such as milk, bread, and cheese, is quite cheap. Utility bills such as water, electricity, and gas are also relatively affordable. Housing costs can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation, but furnished apartments and houses are available at reasonable prices. Public transportation is also affordable as tickets are very inexpensive. Entertainment and leisure activities can be more expensive, but there are numerous inexpensive options available," wrote one member in Portugal.

"At this point, I'm thinking $1500-$2000 per month will be plenty. I'm still buying things for my apartment so don't have a really good sense of how much I will consistently spend," remarked one expat who made the move to Cascais.

"The cost of living in Portugal is higher than other countries in Europe but still quite affordable. It is slightly more expensive to live in big cities such as Lisbon or Porto, as rent and basic goods tend to be more expensive than in smaller towns or rural locations. On average, a nice 1 bedroom apartment in a central area of a major city in Portugal can be around $800-1000 USD per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in the same area could expectancy be closer to $1000-1300 USD monthly. Eating dinner out in a moderately priced restaurant is quite affordable compared to major cities worldwide, with a dinner for two typically costing around 25 USD," commented one expat who moved to Portugal.

What type of recreational facilities are in Portugal?

When we asked people living in Portugal about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Portugal, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and gardens. There are also many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. Portugal also has a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and monuments. Additionally, Portugal has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Finally, Portugal is home to a number of sports facilities, such as golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools," said one expat living in Portugal.

What is the weather like in Portugal?

"As for the weather, here is a great website that compares the weather of any two places world wide, so you can see the difference between areas of Portugal or your home. https://weatherspark.com," said an expat in Portugal.

"The weather in Portugal is generally mild and pleasant, with warm summers and mild winters. The coastal areas tend to be warmer and more humid than the inland areas. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the most rain occurring in the winter months. The Algarve region in the south of Portugal is particularly known for its sunny and dry climate," remarked one expat in Portugal.

Are there good restaurants in Portugal?

"One of Portugal's most beloved restaurants is A Cevicheria, located in Lisbon. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh and flavorful ceviche dishes, as well as its unique atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with bright colors and vibrant artwork, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and octopus. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and beers to accompany the meal. https://www.cevicheria.pt/ Another popular restaurant in Portugal is O Pescador, located in Porto. This seafood restaurant is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, as well as its cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and octopus. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and beers to accompany the meal. The restaurant is decorated with a nautical theme, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. https://www.opescador.pt/ Finally, one of Portugal's most beloved restaurants is A Tasquinha, located in Lisbon. This traditional Portuguese restaurant is known for its delicious and authentic dishes, as well as its cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of traditional Portuguese dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp, and octopus. The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and beers to accompany the meal. The restaurant is decorated with a rustic theme, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. https://www.atasquinha.pt/," said an expat in Portugal.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Portugal?

"People living in Portugal typically buy groceries from local supermarkets, such as Pingo Doce, Intermarché, and Lidl. Other shopping can be done at local markets, such as the Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon, or at larger shopping malls, such as the Colombo Shopping Centre in Lisbon. Additionally, many Portuguese people shop online for groceries and other items," said one expat.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Portugal?

"In order to enter Portugal as a non-resident, visitors must obtain a Schengen visa. Generally, Schengen visas allow short visits of up to 90 days within a 180 day period of time. Visitors who wish to stay longer must apply for a Residence Permit. The process of applying for a Schengen visa includes submitting an application, providing biometric information, paying the relevant fees, and attending an interview. In order to apply for residency in Portugal, applicants must first obtain a Residence Permit (unless the applicant is an EU citizen, in which case they can simply register as residents in Portugal). To apply for the permit, applicants must prove a legal source of income and submit a copy of a valid passport, two passport photos, and proof of address in Portugal. The process also includes an interview and a police record check. Once the permit is processed and issued, a residence card will be sent to the applicant's address," remarked one expat in Portugal.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Portugal?

"We are required to have a private policy that meets the Schengen Community requirements (go to their website). The highest quality of coverage won't cost more than 3,000 euros a person/year (2017) and most retirees are paying only 2,000 euros annually. This includes dental and eye care, surgeries, private hospital room, unlimited doctor visits and tests," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

"Healthcare in Portugal is generally considered to be of good quality and is relatively affordable. Public healthcare is free for Portuguese citizens and those with a valid residence permit, while private healthcare is available for those who can afford it. Health insurance is also available in Portugal, but it is not mandatory. Premiums for health insurance can be expensive, but there are also government subsidies available to help offset the cost," wrote one expat living in Portugal.

"Expensive- relative to what? Compared to our former California prices, not at all. Cost in Cascais is no more expensive than comparable care in the rest of Portugal. Top-of-the-line insurance just got more expensive for elders, but it covers much more than comparable US plans like Medicare + supplement + out-of-pocket. The quality of CUF care, for example, is excellent. Prescription drug prices are way below the US (although non-prescription supplements are much higher). For example, my heart/cholesterol drugs are about 12 euros a month (and totally reimbursed by our top-of-line health insurance.) "List prices" of hospital care and surgery are much lower than in the US with comparable medical expertise and treatment. We, and our friends have had some serious medical events and we are very satisfied with the level of care," commented one expat who moved to Cascais.

"The cost of public medical care in Portugal is affordable once you're on the National Health System. I have not yet used the private services, so I can't compare their costs, but everyone I know who uses them (especially Americans) says the cost is relatively low. In Portugal there are small co-pays, which are cheaper than in the States (when I lived there), but I've never had to pay a co-pay in Canada (and I've lived in 5 provinces)," said one expat.

"I just obtained private insurance through Millenium Bank. Since I am 70 (oops - 71 today). I am limited in companies that will write me. The company is Medis (sp?) and will cost me 30 euros per month. A STEAL - compared to the $230 I'm paying in the US for a Medicare Supplement. They will write people up to 75 Ana, once written, must continue to renew. There is a 60-day waiting period, so the bank will process it 60 days before I move there," commented one expat living in Portugal.

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Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Portugal Residency Advisors

Portugal Residency Advisors is a full-service consulting firm dedicated to providing personalized services to individuals and families seeking to relocate to Portugal. With a team of experienced professionals and strategic partnerships, we are well-positioned to assist clients with all aspects of the relocation process.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Sao Bento Station in Porto, Portugal
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