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Moving to Lagos, Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Lagos, Portugal

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By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 01, 2024

Summary: Lagos, Portugal is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The city is also known for its mild climate, making it an ideal place to live year-round. Before moving to Lagos, it is important to be aware of the cost of living, which is higher than in other parts of Portugal. Additionally, the city is quite touristy, so it is important to be aware of the potential for pickpocketing and other petty crime. Finally, it is important to be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Lagos.

What do I need to know before moving to Lagos?

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

"Lagos is a beautiful coastal city in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Before moving to Lagos, expats should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other parts of Portugal. Additionally, the city is quite touristy, so it is important to be aware of the potential for pickpocketing and other petty crime. Expats should also be aware that the local language is Portuguese, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before arriving. Finally, Lagos is a great place to live, with plenty of activities and attractions to explore," explained one expat living in Lagos, Portugal.

How do I find a place to live in Lagos?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Lagos is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Idealista, Imovirtual, and BPI Expresso offer a wide variety of rental listings in the area. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who specialize in the area to help you find a suitable place to live. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations," said one expat who made the move to Lagos.

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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 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 a typical expat home or apartment like in Lagos?

"Expat homes and apartments in Lagos are typically modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and airy spaces. Many of the apartments have balconies or terraces with views of the city or the nearby beaches. The interiors are often decorated with bright colors and modern furnishings, and the kitchens are usually well-equipped with all the necessary appliances. Expats in Lagos can also enjoy access to a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities," replied a member in Lagos.

What is the average cost of housing in Lagos?

If you are thinking about moving to Lagos, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Lagos is generally quite reasonable. Prices vary depending on the size and location of the property, but the average cost of a two-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around €500-€600 per month. Outside of the city centre, prices can be lower, with two-bedroom apartments costing around €400-€500 per month," said one expat in Lagos.

Should I buy or rent a home in Lagos?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Lagos, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Lagos depends on your individual needs and preferences. Buying a home in Lagos can be a great investment, as the city is a popular tourist destination and real estate prices are likely to increase over time. However, if you are only planning to stay in Lagos for a short period of time, renting may be a better option as it can be more cost-effective and flexible. Additionally, renting can give you the opportunity to explore different neighborhoods and find the one that best suits your lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Lagos should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one expat who made the move to Lagos.

What should I pack when moving to Lagos?

We asked people living in Lagos to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Lagos, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Pack comfortable clothing that is suitable for the warm weather, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Sunscreen and a hat are also essential for protection from the sun. Additionally, pack any necessary medications, toiletries, and personal items. Don't forget to bring a few items to make your new home feel like home, such as photos, books, and decorations," commented one expat who made the move to Lagos.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Lagos?

We asked people in Lagos if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"In Lagos, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered impolite to be overly loud or to talk about sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and to respect the authority of police officers. Finally, it is important to be mindful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the environment in any way," said one expat in Lagos.

Why do people move to Lagos?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Lagos, they responded:

"Lagos is a popular destination for expats due to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life. The city is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque cliffs, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from its historic old town to its lively nightlife. Additionally, Lagos is a great place to live for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle, with its low cost of living and friendly locals. With its stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and excellent quality of life, Lagos is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," replied one expat when asked about moving to Lagos.

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.

How are healthcare services Lagos?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Lagos, they replied:

"Lagos offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide medical care to the local population. These facilities offer a variety of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care for specific conditions. Additionally, Lagos has a number of pharmacies and other health-related businesses that provide products and services to the public. The city also has a number of health-related organizations that provide support and resources to the local community," offered one expat living in Lagos.

What are medical services in Lagos like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Lagos, they replied:

"Lagos offers a wide range of medical services for its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality care for both acute and chronic conditions. The city also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized treatments for specific conditions. Additionally, Lagos has a number of pharmacies that provide medications and other medical supplies. The city also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care to the residents of Lagos," commented one expat living in Lagos.

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.

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Portugal Residency Advisors

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