The Portuguese El Dorado for Americans – why should you choose Portugal to live and invest in

Following Donald Trump’s election victory last November, many Americans are looking for a new beginning in Portugal, drawn by its affordable cost of living, coastal appeal, and political stability. Recent trends show a significant increase in online searches for the phrase “Move to Portugal” immediately after Trump’s victory was confirmed.

Over the last few years, Portugal has seen a surge in popularity among Americans as the political tension and the increase of violence at home reaches new heights. But the political fatigue and the escalating violence are not the only reasons why Portugal has emerged as one of the top relocation destinations for US citizens. So why is Portugal so irresistible to those seeking a fresh start in Europe?

Cost of living – indulge yourself without breaking the bank

Prices have risen dramatically everywhere, and it’s important to consider that the cost of living in any country depends very much on your lifestyle preferences. However, it is undeniable that the cost of living in Portugal offers very significant financial benefits when compared to the cost of housing, healthcare, food and groceries, utilities, transportation, education, entertainment, and leisure of the US major cities that many Americans are now leaving behind.

The latest data from Numbeo statistics (as of January 2025) shows that the living expenses in Portugal are, on average, 36.8% lower than in the US. And rent is also fairly affordable (on average 46% inferior) compared to the American reality.

Quality of life – indulge yourself with a laid-back lifestyle

Portugal is known and loved for its slower pace of life by the sun. Portuguese culture prioritizes leisure, family, and social networking over a work-centric lifestyle. Slow lunches, coffee time, dips in the sea, and outdoor dinners are the norm. Locals are friendly, and English is widely spoken, especially in urban and tourist areas, making the transition smoother for those who don’t speak Portuguese (and let’s face it, most of us don’t!).

Safety and political stability – ditch the fear

Portugal is the 7th safest country in the world among 163 countries, according to the Global Peace Index. Meanwhile, the US ranked 132 out of 163 countries.

With low crime rates and a stable political environment, Portugal is a haven for those for whom safety and stability are a priority.

Healthcare system – quality of care

The US relies heavily on private insurance, while Portugal has a universal healthcare system known as the National Health Service (NHS). This system ensures accessible and affordable care to all citizens and legal residents, and focuses on preventive and specialized care. The NHS is funded through general taxation regardless of your income, employment status, and geographic location, mitigating all disparities in coverage and access, as happens in the US.

Private insurance is also available, despite being considered as a complement to the public system. Its cost remains affordable, often under €1,000 (~$1,100) for a family, a true bargain for Americans, accustomed to pay exorbitant healthcare costs.

Finally, when it comes to private insurance, the American system is often described as expensive, complex to navigate, and essential for accessing care, with significant out-of-pocket costs, whilst the Portuguese one is the exact opposite.

Visa-free travel – freedom of movement

Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area offering its citizens and legal residents visa-free access to all Schengen countries. Can you imagine being able to explore the ‘old continent’ and enjoy seamless travel, with direct flights to major cities across the globe, including the United States, without the burden of visas?

Additionally, Americans with a Portuguese Golden Visa or permanent residency enjoy even greater mobility by unlocking access to Portuguese citizenship after five years of residency and gaining the freedom to travel within non-Schengen countries with a European passport.

Given all these factors, Portugal has become a magnet for US citizens in search of a fresh start, where they can experience a higher quality of life, enjoy a favorable climate all year round, visa-free travel, and take a step back from political instability and polarization.

In 2025, Portugal is well-placed to continue to welcome American citizens. Now, the real question is whether you are ready to move to the Lusitanian land and start a new chapter abroad. At Optylon Krea, our team of experts is committed to helping you navigate the Golden Visa journey, and successfully lock your pathway to Portuguese citizenship and to potentially lucrative investment in the country's thriving hospitality sector, or to advise you on our unique Ando Living Real Estate opportunities in Portugal.

Contact us now and get personalized advice from our team of legal professionals, real estate experts, and fund advisors, and discover the perfect place to live and thrive.

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