Cost of Living in Portugal
The reasonable cost of living in Portugal has attracted expats from all over the world.
Though still not as tempting as its Iberian neighbour, the country is increasingly appealing to more northern Europeans and Britons, who have spied a fine opportunity to stretch their Euros and Pounds on Portugal's sun-soaked shores. Not to mention, retirees and pensioners looking to invest in property have taken a particular liking to Portugal's affordable housing options.
As is the case in most destinations, in major cities, such as Lisbon, Estoril and Cascais, the cost of living is much higher than in more rural communities; and depending on lifestyle choices, has nearly reached European averages.
For those expats who can go manage a modest way of life, a single person with a steady job earning about 1200 Euros per month will be able to attain a decent standard of living.
The cost of food in Portugal is much cheaper compared to other western European countries. Two adults can easily survive on a food and drink budget of 300 Euros per month.
Except for extremely expensive expat resorts and golf homes, such as in the Algarve, property is less expensive than the European average. Renting is also good value. An expat living in Portugal will spend between 300 to 500 Euros on rent. This usually includes water, electricity and gas bills.
Portugal is a coastal country, and thus enjoys abundant and affordable seafood. Several regions in Portugal also make and distribute wine, both locally and internationally, allowing for extremely affordable bottles. Meat products are slightly more expensive, as are poultry and eggs.
Expats should note that car and petrol costs are considerably expensive in contrast to many other parts of Portuguese life: some find themselves paying upwards of four thousand euros for a rust-bucket on its last legs. Alternatively, public transport options are cheap and efficient.
Overall, the cost of living in Portugal heavily depends on the location, as well as the lifestyle of the individual; but in general, offers good value to expats and retirees.
Though still not as tempting as its Iberian neighbour, the country is increasingly appealing to more northern Europeans and Britons, who have spied a fine opportunity to stretch their Euros and Pounds on Portugal's sun-soaked shores. Not to mention, retirees and pensioners looking to invest in property have taken a particular liking to Portugal's affordable housing options.
As is the case in most destinations, in major cities, such as Lisbon, Estoril and Cascais, the cost of living is much higher than in more rural communities; and depending on lifestyle choices, has nearly reached European averages.
For those expats who can go manage a modest way of life, a single person with a steady job earning about 1200 Euros per month will be able to attain a decent standard of living.
The cost of food in Portugal is much cheaper compared to other western European countries. Two adults can easily survive on a food and drink budget of 300 Euros per month.
Except for extremely expensive expat resorts and golf homes, such as in the Algarve, property is less expensive than the European average. Renting is also good value. An expat living in Portugal will spend between 300 to 500 Euros on rent. This usually includes water, electricity and gas bills.
Portugal is a coastal country, and thus enjoys abundant and affordable seafood. Several regions in Portugal also make and distribute wine, both locally and internationally, allowing for extremely affordable bottles. Meat products are slightly more expensive, as are poultry and eggs.
Expats should note that car and petrol costs are considerably expensive in contrast to many other parts of Portuguese life: some find themselves paying upwards of four thousand euros for a rust-bucket on its last legs. Alternatively, public transport options are cheap and efficient.
Overall, the cost of living in Portugal heavily depends on the location, as well as the lifestyle of the individual; but in general, offers good value to expats and retirees.
