Beaches, sun, good prices and quality of life. Portugal has it all. But we have to agree that no place is perfect. There are pros and cons of living in Portugal and today we are going to tell you the most important one.
After all, the decision to relocate to Portugal involves a lot of hesitation about the nature of the desired place, finding a job and fitting in... But what is it really like to live there? What is the good stuff and also the challenging stuff?
We have summarized for you here the pros and cons that we saw as relevant to the question of relocation to this magical place called Portugal. Check it out!
Pros of living in Portugal
1. The Portuguese are very friendly
Have you ever needed to ask for information on the streets in Portugal? You will notice that whenever you need help, a Portuguese person will immediately stop what they’re doing and devote all their attention to you. That's just how they are: kind, welcoming and helpful.
This was the factor that made us love the country the most when we first met it. The Portuguese made us feel at home, even though our home was far from here.
2. Affordable cost of living
If you compare the cost of living in European countries, you will see that Portugal is one of the cheapest places to live. But that doesn't mean the country is worse at anything. Portugal offers the best quality of life for the lowest price.
It is true that over time prices rise, but it is never too late to enter the gameand invest in the real estate market in Portugal. It's definitely worth it. But you can still find your dream home pretty good compared to a lot of places in the world.
3. Sunny days all year round
One of the biggest pros living in Portugal is taking advantage of the record number of sunny days in Europe. In almost all regions, summer passes above 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) and maintains moderate temperatures for most of the year.
Rains are scarcer in the Algarve, but Porto and mountainous regions such as Sintra tend to be more attractive for lovers of mild climates.
4. There are many amazing beaches and natural parks
Portugal is a country of phenomenal natural beauty. You can live here and discover a fantastic new beach every day of the year, including some of the most beautiful in Europe. Some of our favorites across the country are Marinha beach, Portinho da Arrábida, Moledo beach and Franquia beach.
Nature lovers will also find in Portugal the paradise of outdoor life, especially when it comes to walking, cycling and bird watching. Some of our top picks are the Sintra-Cascais National Park, Peneda-Gerês National Park, Arrábida Natural Park and Ria Formosa Natural Park.
5. Portugal is the 4th safest country in the whole world
Yes, it's true. This small piece of paradise has been named the fourth safest country in the world according to the latest World Peace Index 2021. This means that no matter where you go, you can be in peace of mind that you and your family will always be safe.
Small crime, zero wars and mostly quiet small towns. This quality of life is priceless.
6. Cool and light tempo atmosphere
Portuguese culture is about lifestyle 'it's cool, not in a hurry'. People don't seem to be rushing into anything, it's like time goes in slow motion.
Even though it may seem too slow at first, as you calm down, you start to understand that living like this is much better for your mental and physical health. Plus, you get to only stress about the important stuff, channeling your energy when it matters.
Cons of living in Portugal
1. Bureaucratic services tend to be complicated
Solving any type of bureaucracy in public services in Portugal can take forever. The attendants are generally not in a hurry and everything takes their - long - time.
There is a lot of misinformation and a lack of will, it is true, which makes many expatriates have to resort to consulting and outside help to get the most basic services resolved. From getting a tax number to getting a building permit or picking up a package at the post office. The high probability is that something will not work.
2. Local salaries are very low
Are you thinking of working in Portugal? Think twice. Even the Portuguese themselves are unhappy with the country's wages, one of the lowest in the EU - €665 in 2021.
Most expats in Portugal choose to live off their own income or work remotely for companies from their countries, which usually offer higher salaries. Moreover, entering the labor market in Portugal can be very difficult as there are few opportunities for high demand.
3. Homes (usually) are not ready for winter
Even expatriates from the coldest countries in Europe complain about the cold in Portugal, but not because of the temperature outside, but indoors.
It sounds crazy, but what happens is that the vast majority of houses in Portugal were not built with the low temperatures of winter in mind. Buildings are poorly insulated and people end up resorting to heaters, dramatically increasing the electricity bill. By the way, Portugal is one of the European countries with the most expensive energy.
Do you agree with our top picks?
Of course, there are many pros and cons of living in Portugal, but we clearly think the advantages stand out. This country is wonderful, not a day goes by that I regret having chosen to relocate here, with all its little flaws.
We'd also like your opinion. What are the pros and cons you can share about life in Portugal?
Write down so everyone can see and catch up! Feel free to talk to us about questions, concerns and desires.
I hope we can help you deal with at least some of the transition questions, but in short, what it's like to be here.
