🇵🇹 Why Portugal Is One of the World's Top Destinations to Live, Retire & Invest

Published on 24 August 2025 at 14:44

Close your eyes and picture this...

 

Golden light spilling across cobbled streets. Locals chatting over espresso and fresh pastries. The scent of sea air mixed with eucalyptus. A place where time slows down — yet opportunity moves fast.

 

Welcome to Portugal.

 

Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back retirement, your next investment property, or a lifestyle that balances beauty with stability — Portugal offers it all.

 

 

Why So Many Are Moving to Portugal

 

Portugal has become one of the most desirable destinations for retirees, lifestyle buyers, and property investors — and here’s why:

 

Over 300 days of sunshine annually in the Algarve

 

Comfortable living on €1,500–€2,500/month, including rent

 

Ranked 12th globally for healthcare (WHO)

 

A peaceful, welcoming culture with strong expat communities

 

Voted #1 place to retire by International Living (2023)

 

More than 500,000 foreign retirees now call Portugal home. And with rising demand from digital nomads and lifestyle migrants, the appeal keeps growing.

 

Why Smart Investors Are Targeting Portugal

 

Even after the closure of the Golden Visa for residential areas, Portugal remains one of the most resilient and attractive real estate markets in Europe.

 

Here’s what savvy investors love:

 

8.7% average property price growth in 2023 (Eurostat)

 

Rising rental yields in Lisbon, Porto, and coastal towns

 

High-quality off-plan and eco-build developments

 

Tax advantages through the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) scheme

 

Access to EU markets, international airports, and infrastructure

 

Portugal offers a rare combo: stable long-term appreciation and properties people genuinely want to live in.

 

 

Best Places to Invest or Retire in Portugal

 

Lisbon – Elegant capital, strong rental yields, and startup culture

Algarve – Beautiful beaches, golf resorts, and a top choice for retirees

Silver Coast – Undervalued coastal region with great potential

Comporta & Melides – Luxury countryside meets boho charm

From modern city apartments to tranquil seaside villas, there's a place in Portugal to match every goal — whether it’s ROI or R&R.

Residency & Retirement Visas

Portugal remains one of the easiest EU countries to settle in:

D7 Visa – For passive income, pensions, or rental earnings

Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers & freelancers

NHR tax scheme offers reduced taxation for up to 10 years

By Elly Herriman