Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Alfama, which is Lisbon's Oldest Neighborhood

Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 23, 2024

Summary: The pros of living in Portugal include its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. Portugal is also known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for expats. Additionally, the country is known for its excellent healthcare system and its friendly people. On the other hand, the cons of living in Portugal include its high unemployment rate, which can make it difficult to find a job. Additionally, the country has a high crime rate, which can make it difficult to feel safe in certain areas. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Portuguese.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care
Allianz Care

What are the pros and cons of living in Portugal?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Portugal responded:

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the relaxed lifestyle and warm climate that Portugal has to offer. They also enjoy the low cost of living, with affordable housing and food, as well as the country's rich culture and history. Additionally, the country's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and bureaucracy to be challenging. Additionally, the country's limited job opportunities can be a deterrent for some," explained one expat living in Portugal.

"The weather is generally very good, access to goods and services makes it easy to live here. Covid has impacted everything of course which has made things more difficult. Health care is accessible and affordable. Learning the language has taken longer but English is often understood. There's access to lots of outdoors activities like cycling, hiking, water sports, which is important. There is an old world charm and a lot of history to learn about. Also access to other places in Europe make this location good. Previously lived in several countries in Asia. Europe also closer to the US for trips back- when possible again," said one expat in living in Lisbon, Portugal.

Answer this Question

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.

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.

Alfama, which is Lisbon's Oldest Neighborhood

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

Let Portugal Residency Advisors help you with your move.
Learn More

Portugal Residency AdvisorsPortugal Residency Advisors

Let Portugal Residency Advisors help you with your move.
Learn More

Contribute to Portugal Network Contribute
Help others in Portugal by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Portugal.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal