Lisbon has long been a popular destination for travelers and expats, and it’s easy to see why. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. There are so many things to do and see in Lisbon. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the city’s beautiful beaches, wander the narrow streets of its historic neighborhoods, or sample some of the best food and wine in the world.
But for those looking to make a more permanent move to the city, Lisbon is also the perfect place to start a new chapter in your life. From its affordable cost of living and excellent healthcare system to its welcoming community and beautiful surroundings, Lisbon should be at the top of your list if you’re considering a move.
Lisbon has a beauty that speaks to the soul. It is a city that has a way of capturing your heart and never letting go.
We moved to Lisbon over a year ago and have loved every minute of it. Here are just a few of the many reasons why Lisbon Portugal is the perfect place for us:
Safety: First and foremost, Portugal is an incredibly safe country. It’s ranked third in the world by the Global Peace Index. In comparison, the US is down at 121. While Portugal is small, it certainly packs a punch regarding safety. This was an essential factor to consider when choosing a place to live, and Portugal didn’t disappoint.
English: The fact that English is widely spoken in the country, especially in urban areas, was also a major plus for us.
Democracy: But Portugal isn’t just a safe and beautiful country – it’s also a very established and stable place to live. Despite being one of the poorest countries in the EU, it’s not a third-world country.
We wanted something more established and stable, and Portugal fit the bill perfectly. The country has a long history of democracy, with a democratic government since 1974. This was an essential factor when choosing a place to live.
Cost of living: One of our biggest draws was the cost of living in Portugal. It’s much more affordable than in the US. Consumer prices are about 25% lower in Portugal. We found that on a budget of $3,000 per month, two people can live a solid middle-class lifestyle (assuming no debt and a comfortable, but not extravagant, living space).
Health care: But it’s not just the cost of living that’s attractive in Portugal. The healthcare system is top-notch, with access to public and private options.
Taxes: Let’s remember the tax incentives for those who establish residence in the country and the ease of travel to other European countries. All these factors combined made it easy for us to move to Portugal.
The weather: Lisbon has a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. This means we get to enjoy the outdoors year-round, whether it’s soaking up the sun at the beach or exploring the city’s many parks and gardens.
The ocean: As someone who loves being near the sea, I was also drawn to the fact that Portugal is a coastal country with miles of beautiful beaches. We love spending time at the beach, whether swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the scenery. We knew that living in Portugal would give us easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The architecture: Lisbon is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful and historic architecture. From the iconic tiled buildings of the Alfama neighborhood to the grandeur of the Belem Tower, there’s always something new and stunning to discover.
The food and wine: Portuguese food is truly one of a kind, and Lisbon has some of the best restaurants and markets in the country. From fresh seafood to hearty stews and delectable pastries, there’s always something new to try. And with a rich wine-making tradition, there’s no shortage of delicious local wines to pair with your meals.
The culture: Lisbon has a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something new to discover. There’s something for everyone, from traditional music and dance to modern art and design.
Transportation: Lisbon has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses, trams, and trains that can take you anywhere in the city. And with several affordable car-sharing and bike-sharing options, it’s easy to get around without a car.
The community: Lisbon is a welcoming and diverse city with a large expat community and a strong sense of community. Since moving here, we’ve made many new friends and love the feeling of belonging to our new community.
The proximity to other European countries: Lisbon is an excellent base for exploring the rest of Europe, with cheap flights and easy train connections to other major cities. We love being connected to the rest of the continent.
Lisbon is an incredible city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to visit or to call home, Lisbon should be at the top of your list. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Lisbon always has something new to explore and experience. And with its affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare system, welcoming community, and beautiful surroundings, it’s no wonder that many people are considering moving to this incredible city.
What are your reasons?
