Cheap Places To Live In Portugal: The Best Cities in 2023
Cheap Places To Live In Portugal
Cheap places to live in Portugal; Santarém is this stunning country’s cheapest place to live—our blog delves into Portugal’s other affordable cities and the factors contributing to their low living cost.
Keep reading to unlock secrets to enjoying a great quality of life in Portugal within your budget!
Key Takeaways
- Santarém is the cheapest place to live in Portugal, offering a great quality of life at a low cost.
- Other affordable cities include Castelo Branco, Viseu, Viana do Castelo, Figueira da Foz, Ponta Delgada, and Alcobaça.
- Factors contributing to lower living costs in smaller cities include affordable accommodation, cheaper daily expenses like food and transportation, lower utility costs, and more affordable healthcare services.
- When comparing the cost of living between Lisbon (most expensive), Porto (more affordable), and the Algarve (high quality but higher cost), it’s important to consider each city’s unique factors.
Cheap Places To Live In Portugal: Best Cities
Castelo Branco, Santarém, Viseu, Viana do Castelo, Figueira da Foz, Ponta Delgada, and Alcobaça are among the cheapest cities to live in Portugal.
Castelo Branco
Castelo Branco is in the heart of Portugal, near Spain. It’s one of the cheapest places to live in this country. You can get from Castelo Branco to Lisbon by train. People love living here because it only costs an average of $773 each month for everything you need!
Santarém
Santarém is a top pick for people who want a cheap living. It ranks in the world’s top 37% of the least expensive cities. The cost to live here is around $915. Santarém sits just one hour from Lisbon, giving easy access to big city life.
This small city offers great value property options too. Many choose Santarém as it lets them stay close to Lisbon but at lower costs. Known as one of Portugal’s cheapest places, it draws many looking for good quality of life on a tight budget.
Viseu
Viseu is a city in Portugal where life doesn’t cost much. It ranks high for cities with low costs all over the world. For only $846 a month, you can live well there. This price is less than what it costs to live in many other European cities.
Viseu offers good transport links, so it’s easy to get around. The city has an old and charming look that people love about it. Living here means being part of a lovely place that is not too pricey.
Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a small city on the coast of Portugal, with the River Lima running through it. Despite being one of the rainiest cities in Continental Portugal, it is known for its charming and compact cityscape.
Compared to Lisbon, the rent prices in Viana do Castelo are much lower, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in Portugal. With its attractive location and affordability, Viana do Castelo provides great value for those seeking a comfortable life in Portugal.
Figueira da Foz
Figueira da Foz is one of the cheapest cities to live in Portugal. Located on the Portuguese Silver Coast, just 50 km from Coimbra, it offers a lower cost of living than other European cities.
Known for its beautiful beaches and coastal views, Figueira da Foz is a great option for those looking to live in a city with a mild climate and affordable prices. It’s also referred to as Figueira for short.
Ponta Delgada
Ponta Delgada is one of the cheapest cities to live in Portugal. With an average cost of living at $1151, it offers an affordable way of life. Ranked as one of the best places to live in the world and the 114th-best city in Portugal, Ponta Delgada provides great value for those on a tight budget.
It is located in the Azores and boasts a mild climate with warm weather throughout the year. This charming city is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and stunning landscapes.
Whether looking for outdoor activities or exploring historical monuments like Roman ruins, Ponta Delgada has something for everyone. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a comfortable life without breaking your bank account.
Alcobaça
Alcobaça is a city in west-central Portugal that offers an affordable cost of living. It is known for its rich history and cultural attractions. With an average cost of living of $1016, Alcobaça provides a comfortable life at a lower price than larger cities in Portugal.
The city is located at the confluence of the Alcoa and Baça rivers, just south-southwest of Leiria. It has been listed as one of the best places to live in the world and ranks 97th among the best cities to live in Portugal.
Whether you’re looking for historical monuments or outdoor activities, Alcobaça offers plenty to explore while keeping costs low.
Factors Contributing to Lower Costs of Living in Smaller Cities
Living in smaller cities in Portugal comes with several factors contributing to lower living costs. Firstly, accommodation expenses are generally more affordable than in larger cities like Lisbon or Porto.
Renting or buying a property in smaller towns can save you money as the prices are lower, allowing you to get more for your budget.
Daily expenses such as food and transportation are also cheaper in smaller cities. Groceries and dining out are generally less expensive, making sticking to a tight budget easier.
Furthermore, public transportation options like buses and trains are often more affordable and convenient than in bigger cities.
Moreover, utilities such as electricity, water, and internet services also come at a lower cost in smaller cities. These savings can add up over time and contribute to a lower overall cost of living.
Lastly, healthcare services are often more affordable in smaller towns than in major cities. Medical consultations, prescriptions, and procedures tend to have lower price tags without compromising quality care.
All these factors combined make living in smaller cities an attractive option for those seeking a comfortable life on a budget without sacrificing the quality of life that Portugal has become known for.
Comparison of Cost of Living in Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve
Comparing the cost of living between Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve can provide valuable insights for potential expats or retirees.
– Lisbon: As Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon has the highest cost of living. Yet, compared to other European capitals, it remains relatively affordable. The cost of living in Lisbon can be higher due to areas of the city being trendy with tourists. This means higher prices for dining out, entertainment, and rental rates.
– Porto: Porto is known for its lower living cost than Lisbon. Not only are the housing and rental rates more affordable, but dining out and entertainment costs are also generally cheaper. This makes Porto a more budget-friendly option for individuals or families considering a move.
– Algarve: A popular destination for retirees, the Algarve is known for its high cost of living compared to other areas in Portugal. While it offers a beautiful coastal lifestyle, the costs associated with living in this region can be higher. This includes everything from housing to groceries. Despite this, the Algarve continues to draw in expats with its high quality of life.
Each city and region has unique cost of living factors, with Lisbon being the most expensive, Porto being the most affordable, and the Algarve presenting a balance between the two. Considering these factors is essential when choosing your ideal location in Portugal.
Best Cities to Live in Portugal
The best cities to live in Portugal are:
- Santarém: The cheapest place to live in Portugal.
- Coimbra: Considered the best city for students.
- Porto: Offers an authentic Portuguese experience.
- Guimarães: One of the most affordable cities and well-connected to other major cities.
- Castelo Branco: Offers the halfway point between Lisbon and the Spanish border.
Other Cheap Places to Live in Portugal
In addition to the cities mentioned above, there are several other affordable places to live in Portugal. These include Braga, Portimão, Beja, and Sines. Keep reading to learn more about these hidden gems and why they are great options for living on a budget in Portugal!
Braga
Braga is a vibrant city in the northern region of Portugal that offers a great quality of life at an affordable cost. It is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
Braga is considered one of the safest cities in Europe to live in, with low crime rates, making it an ideal place for individuals and families. The city is also a religious center and boasts outstanding tourist attractions like living historical monuments and beautiful churches.
Braga’s affordability makes it one of the cheapest places to live in Portugal, making it a perfect choice for those on a tight budget or looking for great value.
Portimão
Portimão is one of the cheapest places to live in Portugal, making it a great option for those on a tight budget. With an average cost of living around $1,065, which is close to the national average, it offers good value for money.
Expats are drawn to Portimão because of its warm weather and beautiful beaches—no wonder this city is ranked Portugal’s 11th best place to live. So if you’re looking for an affordable place with a comfortable life and plenty of outdoor activities, Portimão might be the right choice.
Beja
Beja is a hidden gem in Portugal that offers an affordable cost of living compared to its neighboring city, Algarve. A couple can live comfortably in Beja with a monthly budget of $1,600, including rent.
The average cost of living in this charming town is around $1,031. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and peaceful atmosphere, Beja is often overlooked by tourists but worth exploring for those seeking an authentic Portuguese experience.
Sines
Sines is a small seaside town located on the Alentejo coast of Portugal. It is listed as one of the cheapest cities in Portugal, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.
The cost of living in Sines is relatively low compared to other cities in the country. With easy travel options to and from other locations in Portugal, Sines offers both affordability and convenience.
Whether looking for beautiful beaches or a comfortable life on a tight budget, Sines could be the right place for you.
Conclusion
Living in Portugal can be affordable and provide a high quality of life. Santarém is the cheapest place to live, but cities like Porto and Lisbon offer great value too. Whether you prefer smaller towns or larger cities, plenty of options exist.
Portugal provides an easygoing lifestyle, mild climate, beautiful beaches, and rich history – making it a top choice for those seeking an affordable yet comfortable life in Europe.
FAQs: Finding Affordable Living in Portugal
What are some cheap places to live in Portugal?
In Western Europe, Portugal is a great place to find affordable living. Among the cheapest countries in the region, it offers various options for every budget. The average temperature and beautiful locations near the Atlantic Ocean make cities like Braga, Coimbra, and Aveiro, as well as small-town regions, attractive choices. Many of these areas also boast historical significance, such as UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition. Even in big cities, some neighborhoods are considered cheap cities within the metropolis.
Examples:
- Braga: One of the oldest cities in Portugal with a low cost of living.
- Algarve Region: A popular place recently, especially among digital nomads.
- Coimbra: The center of Portugal with universities and art galleries.
Are there any affordable housing options in Portugal?
Yes, affordable housing is readily available across Portugal. From one-bedroom apartments in the city center to two-bedroom apartments in smaller towns, the average costs are often below those in European countries and the United States. In the most affordable places, even real estate can be a good option for those seeking a better life.
Is healthcare affordable in Portugal?
Portugal’s healthcare system is known for its affordability. Public health is accessible to all Portuguese people, with the public transport system helping reach medical facilities easily. For those seeking private schools or international schools, various options are available at different price points. Mild winters and sunny days contribute to a healthy lifestyle, and international living in Portugal is considered the best option by many United Kingdom expats.
What other expenses should I consider when looking for a cheap place to live in Portugal?
Living in Portugal is about more than just housing costs. Consider the following:
- Utilities: Water, electricity, air conditioning, and more.
- Groceries: Local produce and imported goods vary in price.
- Transportation Costs: From public transport in the largest city to car ownership in rural areas.
- Leisure Activities: From most important monuments to beachside relaxation.
- Education: Costs of private and international schools for children.
- Visa Options: Understanding Portugal’s visa options for a long-term stay.
- Day-to-Day Cost of Living: Includes average price for a single person and family, depending on location and lifestyle.
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Let’s address that Polet’sl, with its rich culture and local economy, offers city life and tranquil countryside living. Whether you want to stay close to the international airport for frequent travel or relax in a serene small town with square miles of scenic beauty, Portugal is ready to welcome you with open arms. Enjoy the summer months or embrace the long-term joys of living in the Portuguese capital and beyond as you find your new home in this beautiful country.
