‘Number one’ destination for expats in Portugal boasts ‘pretty low cost of living’ and a 'close-knit community'

Kristin and stock image of Ericeira

Ericeira is situated a stone's throw away from Lisbon

GETTY / YOUTUBE
Solen Le Net

By Solen Le Net


Published: 01/05/2024

- 15:01

Updated: 02/05/2024

- 11:36

A relocation expert claims a small seaside town near Lisbon offers lower costs of living

Portugal is undoubtedly one of Europe's most popular destinations for expats, but choosing where to live can be tricky when the options are so extensive.

Although there are scores of seaside towns to choose from, many expats are drawn to the small coastline area of Ericeira.


The city was highlighted in a YouTube clip posted by expat relocation consultant Kristin Wilson, whose channel explores the top areas in Europe for international visitors.

She said: “The number one destination on our list is Ericeira, the hottest digital nomad destination in Portugal right now, ranking high in all the categories on the nomad list index.

Kristin and stock image of Ericeira

Kristin highly recommends Ericeira to expats

GETTY / YOUTUBE

“It’s a walkable city with a small-town vibe and a close-knit community, that expats really love.

“The cost of living in Ericeira is pretty low as well, at only one or two thousand dollars per month. Furnished studios and one-bedroom flats [are] available from just €500-600."

The city also boasts a broad selection of restaurants and cafes and is only five minutes from Portugal's capital city, Lisbon.

“The only downside to living in Ericeira is that there aren’t that many places to work from," noted Kristin.

“Like many seaside towns in Portugal, Ericeira was once primarily a fishing town," points out the Portugalist.

"These days, however, Ericeira caters more to tourists and expats who come to take advantage of the town’s warm weather and fantastic waves."

The local website Portugal.com reported earlier this year that while the purchasing power in the UK is around 90 per cent higher in Portugal, the Iberian country is a lot cheaper.

It added also pointed out that consumer prices in the UK are 35 per cent higher, and rent is almost 40 per cent more expensive than in Portugal.

“Keep in mind that retiring or working remotely is your best option to make use of Portugal’s low cost of living," an entry on the site read.

Although Eciceira is relatively cheap compared to the rest of Europe, it should be noted that it is not the country's most affordable area.

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Portugal city life

Portugal's charming cities attract visitors from across the globe

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For those planning a low-cost relocation to the Southern European country, experts at Viv Europe recommend Viseu, Santarem and Castelo Branco.

Aside from its lower cost of living, Portugal owes its high quality of life to an unbeatable healthcare system.

Experts at Global Citizen Solutions confirm that the state-provided healthcare in Portugal “is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, completely free of charge".

It adds: “While most medical services are covered, there may be certain fees associated with emergency room visits, consultations with your family doctors, or when utilising ambulance services.”

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