The American Shift Toward Portugal

Walking through the streets of Lisbon or Porto, it’s not unusual to hear English echoing through the alleyways. While many of those voices belong to tourists, a growing number are Americans who have chosen to leave the U.S. behind and start a new life in Portugal.

But what’s behind this quiet movement across the Atlantic? Is it just a trend, or is something bigger happening?

Let’s explore why thousands of Americans are quietly relocating to Portugal—and whether this lifestyle change might be right for you too.

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How Many Americans Are Really Moving to Portugal?

According to official data from 2023, over 14,000 Americans were legally living in Portugal. That might seem like a small number—until you look at how quickly it’s growing.

• In 2019, only 835 residence permits were issued to U.S. citizens

• By 2024, that number jumped to 2,859

Clearly, there is a growing trend of Americans choosing to make Portugal their home.

Why Portugal? The Top Reasons Americans Are Relocating

Here’s why Portugal has become a magnet for U.S. expats:

• Affordability compared to U.S. cities

• Political stability and a calmer social climate

• Safety, especially for families with young children

• Access to fresh food, local markets, and a more relaxed lifestyle

• Warmer climate and better work-life balance

Some families move to escape school-related violence in the U.S. Others want to raise their kids with values outside a consumer-driven culture. Many young professionals are simply burned out and looking for something more sustainable.

Portugal’s Work Culture vs. the U.S.

Portugal offers a slower, more balanced pace of life. The typical workweek is 40 hours—with real breaks and less overtime than the U.S.

In 2023, the country even launched a four-day workweek pilot, which showed increases in mental well-being and productivity.

But don’t be fooled—Portuguese salaries are low. The minimum wage is €870, while the average Lisbon rent for a one-bedroom apartment is nearly €1,000. That’s why most expats rely on income from abroad or remote work.

_{We have a video on our channel showcasing a Portuguese expat living in the US who discusses the primary differences between Portugal and the US. You can watch it here.}

The Job Market and Remote Work in Portugal

If you’re not working for a multinational company or have high qualifications, the local job market may not be ideal. That’s why remote work is a game-changer.

Digital nomads, remote professionals, and freelancers are choosing Portugal because:

• They can earn in dollars or euros

• They enjoy flexible schedules

• They benefit from Portugal’s central location in Europe

Plus, the government has introduced tax incentives to attract foreign talent in tech, education, and healthcare.

The Golden Visa: A Gateway for Investors

Heard of the Golden Visa?

It’s a residency program for non-EU citizens who invest in Portugal.

To qualify, you must:

• Invest at least €250,000 in a qualified program

• Spend 7 days per year in Portugal

• Do not already have EU citizenship

While not suitable for everyone, this path works well for retirees or entrepreneurs seeking a long-term settlement.

Cost of Living in Portugal (2025 Update)

Between 2022 and 2024, Portugal’s cost of living rose by 25%.

Let’s break it down:

• Rent: Average per square meter went from €11.1 in 2020 to €16.1 in 2024

• Groceries: What used to cost €200/month for a couple now costs around €400

Despite this, Portugal remains more affordable than many parts of the U.S., particularly in terms of healthcare, education, and lifestyle. We have an entire article covering Portugal’s cost of Living in 2025.

Healthcare for Expats in Portugal

Portugal has a public healthcare system (SNS), but don’t assume you’ll have access right away. During the visa process, many expats need private international health insurance.

We recommend SafetyWing, designed for expats, digital nomads, and frequent travelers.

It covers:

• Hospital visits

• Emergency care

• Trip interruptions and lost luggage

Get peace of mind for just a few dollars a day. Click here to learn more.

Challenges: Language and Bureaucracy

Not everything is perfect. Two major hurdles you should prepare for:

1. The language: English is common in cities, but learning basic Portuguese goes a long way in rural areas and with integration.

2. Immigration delays: The new agency, AIMA, remains overwhelmed. Some expats wait over 2 years for full residency approval.

Still, these challenges can be managed with the right guidance.

Final Tips for Americans Moving to Portugal

Here’s what we recommend if you’re seriously considering relocating:

• Avoid Lisbon if you’re on a tight budget—explore smaller towns with good transit

• Use public schools for children—many are high-quality and even offer free transportation

• Get proper healthcare coverage before arrival

• Join our free Facebook group to connect with others and get real-time advice

• Grab our free guide “From Nomad to Neighbor” to walk you through the essentials