Portugal now the most affordable EU destination for expat retirees

As the cost of living soars in Spain, France and Italy as well as in the UK, where in Europe can expat retirees find an affordable home from home?

Overlooked for several decades as a major EU bolthole for would-be expat retirees, Portugal is now coming into its own due to its reasonable cost of living compared with the alternatives. For active retirees, it’s also one of the countries whose inhabitants live the longest. It’s the European state offering the best value for money combined with quality of life, with the reason behind its comparatively low cost of living its GDP compared with other EU member states.

Retirees choosing a number of smaller cities with even lower costs of living than in the popular coastal tourist areas can save even more, with Guimaraes in Portugal’s northern region one of the most fascinating due to its Roman Empire heritage and 10th century castle on a hill. Another option is Braga, the country’s oldest habitation, set close by Guimaraes and the perfect location for a peaceful retirement. Located on Portugal’s southern coastline, Lagos has a moderate climate year-round, a blessing for those who can’t stand searing summer temperatures.

Former Portuguese capital Coimbra is found just two hours’ drive to the north of the present-day capital of Lisbon and, for expats looking for city amenities, Porto is the best choice. For those wanting a quieter life plus easy access to the capital, Marfa lies 30 miles to the northwest of the metropolis. Finally, for expats needing access to the sea, the central coastal city of Nazare has it all.