Rising Living Costs in Spain Propel Expats Toward Portugal's Affordable Lifestyle
Rising costs and tough residency rules in Spain drive expats to Portugal, where affordability and lifestyle benefits are drawing a growing community.
- • Rising living costs and a proposed 100% property tax in Spain push expats toward Portugal.
- • Portugal offers significantly lower living expenses, affordable rent, and shopping costs.
- • Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa attracts remote workers with flexible residency and income requirements.
- • Retirees find Portugal's residency requirements more accessible compared to Spain's stringent financial thresholds.
Key details
Expats in Spain, particularly retirees and remote workers, are increasingly relocating to Portugal due to escalating living costs and stringent requirements in Spain. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Spain averages €972 per month, while shopping expenses have surged by 38.5% since 2019. Compounding concerns is Spain’s proposed 100% property tax on non-EU residents, further discouraging potential buyers. Meanwhile, Portugal offers more affordable living, with average monthly expenses for a single person at €1,285 and a cost base 37.9% lower than the UK.
Portugal's Digital Nomad Visa, launched in 2022, appeals to remote workers by allowing residency for up to a year if they earn at least €3,480 monthly, with options for extension. Retirees benefit from accessible residency terms, needing just €870 monthly income compared to Spain’s demanding €30,240 annual threshold. Portugal’s welcoming environment, warm climate — especially in the Algarve — and vibrant expat communities enhance its appeal. Since 2018, Portugal's expat population has surged by 150%, reflecting a growing preference for its lifestyle and affordability.
This migration trend highlights contrasts in tax policies, cost of living, and visa accessibility between Spain and Portugal, making Portugal an increasingly preferred destination for those seeking quality life abroad in Europe.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.