Pros and Cons of Living in Lagos
Last updated on Mar 22, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Lagos, Portugal include its stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and picturesque cliffs. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Additionally, Lagos is a great place to live for those who enjoy outdoor activities, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports. The cons of living in Lagos include the high cost of living, as well as the fact that the city can be quite crowded during peak tourist season. Additionally, the city is prone to strong winds and storms, which can make outdoor activities difficult at times. Finally, the city is quite isolated, so those who prefer a more urban lifestyle may find it difficult to adjust.
What are the pros and cons of living in Lagos?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Lagos responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Lagos appreciate the city's stunning natural beauty, with its rugged coastline, stunning beaches, and picturesque cliffs. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, restaurants, and clubs. Additionally, the city's low cost of living and its proximity to other European cities make it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's infrastructure and public transportation system to be lacking, as well as the lack of English-speaking locals," explained one expat living in Lagos.

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Welcome to Green Breeze, your gateway to unforgettable private yacht and boat rentals in the enchanting Troia and Comporta regions of Portugal. Whether you seek a serene escape on the calm waters of Troia or an adventurous voyage along the picturesque coast of Arrabida, we’ve got you covered. Our fleet offers a selection of meticulously maintained yachts and boats to cater to your every desire. Discover the perfect vessel to suit your dreams, from sleek motorboats to luxurious hybrid yachts.
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What do expats in Lagos appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Lagos appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the stunning beaches, the delicious seafood, and the vibrant nightlife. The city's rich history and culture are also a draw, with its cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and traditional festivals. Additionally, expats appreciate the warm climate and the abundance of outdoor activities, such as surfing, sailing, and hiking," explained one expat living in Lagos.

Welcome to Green Breeze, your gateway to unforgettable private yacht and boat rentals in the enchanting Troia and Comporta regions of Portugal. Whether you seek a serene escape on the calm waters of Troia or an adventurous voyage along the picturesque coast of Arrabida, we’ve got you covered. Our fleet offers a selection of meticulously maintained yachts and boats to cater to your every desire. Discover the perfect vessel to suit your dreams, from sleek motorboats to luxurious hybrid yachts.

Welcome to Green Breeze, your gateway to unforgettable private yacht and boat rentals in the enchanting Troia and Comporta regions of Portugal. Whether you seek a serene escape on the calm waters of Troia or an adventurous voyage along the picturesque coast of Arrabida, we’ve got you covered. Our fleet offers a selection of meticulously maintained yachts and boats to cater to your every desire. Discover the perfect vessel to suit your dreams, from sleek motorboats to luxurious hybrid yachts.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Lagos often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Portuguese is the official language of the country, and many locals may not be able to communicate in English. Additionally, the Portuguese culture is very family-oriented, and expats may find it difficult to make friends and build relationships with locals. Furthermore, the Portuguese are known for their laid-back attitude, which can be difficult for expats who are used to a more fast-paced lifestyle. Finally, the Portuguese are very proud of their culture and traditions, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the local customs," replied an expat in Lagos.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Lagos
- Discovering the Best of Lagos
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- 7 Things to Know Before You Move to Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal