Belém, Lisbon

Retire in Lisbon

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on May 11, 2025

Summary: Lisbon, Portugal is a popular destination for retirees due to its mild climate, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The average temperature in Lisbon ranges from the mid-50s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit throughout the year. There are several retirement communities in Lisbon, offering a variety of amenities and services for retirees. The cost of a nice two-bedroom home in Lisbon is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three-bedroom home can cost around $250,000 USD.

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What is it like to retire in Lisbon?

"Lisbon and its surrounding areas offer retirees a vibrant and active lifestyle. There is an active expat community in Lisbon, with many retirees from all over the world living in the city. There are plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the many museums, galleries, and monuments. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, and swimming. For those looking for a nightlife, Lisbon has plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore," said a person in Lisbon.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Overseas retirees advise that you research your prospective host country extensively in advance, including exploring the tax implications, healthcare options, local lifestyle, and safety considerations. Once you have picked your destination, be sure to visit before committing to living there for an extended time. It’s also important to evaluate the cost of living in advance - ensure that you have a realistic budget that allows you to still enjoy your retirement, as well as access to banking, transportation, and other services that you may need. Most importantly, don't be afraid to take risks and step outside your comfort zone - it's an adventure of a lifetime," commented one retiree living in Lisbon, Portugal.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Lisbon?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Lisbon is the cost of living. Lisbon is a popular tourist destination and the cost of living is higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Portuguese. The healthcare system in Portugal is also different than in other countries, and it can be difficult to navigate. Finally, the climate in Lisbon can be difficult to adjust to, as it is much warmer than in other parts of Europe," commented one retiree living in Lisbon, Portugal.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Lisbon?

"Retiring in Lisbon offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful beaches. The mild climate and Mediterranean atmosphere make it a great place to relax and enjoy life. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, the city is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, providing plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the local culture. With its rich history and culture, Lisbon is a great place to retire and enjoy the best of what Portugal has to offer," said one retiree in Lisbon.

What are healthcare services like in Lisbon?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Lisbon. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Lisbon are provided by the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde). The service is free for all citizens and residents of Portugal, and is funded by the government. Lisbon has a wide range of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers, providing a variety of services including general and specialist medical care, emergency services, and preventive health care. The city also has a number of specialized centers for mental health, addiction, and geriatric care. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and health stores throughout the city, providing access to a range of over-the-counter medications and health products," said a retiree who moved to Lisbon, Portugal.

How do I meet people in Lisbon?

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

"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 retiree in Lisbon.

"Expats in Lisbon often join clubs and activities such as language exchange groups, book clubs, and sports teams. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and talking to locals in cafes, bars, and other public spaces," commented one retiree living in Lisbon, Portugal.

What is life like in Lisbon?

When we asked people living in Lisbon 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," explained one retiree living in Lisbon.

"Lisbon is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, mild climate, and affordable cost of living. The city is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to work from. The city also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from exploring the historic Alfama district to taking a day trip to the nearby Sintra Mountains. With its friendly locals, vibrant nightlife, and stunning scenery, Lisbon is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and affordable place to live," said one retiree in living in Lisbon, Portugal.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Lisbon?

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

"Grab a Portugese phrase book, and spend time focusing on learning crucial phrases that will help you in conversing with the locals," explained one retiree living in Lisbon.

"Before retiring in Lisbon, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Portuguese, as it is the official language of the country. Expats should also research the cost of living in Lisbon, as it is higher than other parts of Portugal. Additionally, expats should research the healthcare system in Lisbon, as it is different from other countries. It is also important to research the visa requirements for expats, as they may need to obtain a residence permit in order to stay in Portugal. Finally, expats should research the local culture and customs, as they may be different from what they are used to," said one retiree in living in Lisbon, Portugal.

What type of recreational activities are there in Lisbon?

"Lisbon offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. One of the most popular attractions is the Lisbon Oceanarium, which is the largest indoor aquarium in Europe. It features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins. Another popular recreational facility is the Lisbon Zoo, which is home to over 2000 animals from all over the world. The zoo also features a variety of educational programs and activities. For those looking for a more active experience, the Parque das Nações offers a variety of outdoor activities, including biking, rollerblading, and kayaking. The park also features a variety of restaurants and cafes. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, the Jardim Botânico de Lisboa is a beautiful botanical garden with a variety of plants and flowers. Finally, the Parque Eduardo VII is a large park with a variety of activities, including a playground, a lake, and a variety of walking paths," wrote one person in Lisbon.

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

"Lisbon is a great city for expats to do their shopping. One of the most popular places to buy groceries is the Pingo Doce supermarket chain, which has multiple locations throughout the city. They offer a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other food items. For other shopping, the Feira da Ladra flea market is a great place to find unique items and souvenirs. It is held every Tuesday and Saturday in the Alfama district. Additionally, the El Corte Inglés department store is a great place to find clothing, electronics, and other items. It is located in the Parque das Nações district," remarked one retiree in Lisbon.

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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