Why Americans are flocking to Portugal - A coastal dream of affordable living and political stability

Words by David Moura-George, Managing Director, Portugal, Athena Advisers

When you see the swathes of red across the US Presidential map this morning, the natural thought is that America has never been more unified. Just as we saw eight years ago, this Trump victory might just be the nudge that Americans needed to make Portugal great again in their eyes. For those weary of political polarisation, rising healthcare costs, and a culture that feels increasingly divided, Portugal’s promise of affordability, coastal beauty, and stability is like a lifeline.

If Trump’s policies intensify economic and social pressures in the US, Portugal—with its peaceful pace and open-door policies for remote workers and retirees—could become even more irresistible for those seeking a fresh start abroad.

“It’s not just the differences, it’s about the similarities, cost-of-living and business culture is important of course, but there are intrinsic lifestyle aspects that are shared. A surf-before-work lifestyle. The appreciation of coastal living. Then add in things like great international schools and the ability to become an EU citizen through investment and the reasons to relocate start to add up”

Niamh Erbek, Sales Director, Athena Advisers

Niamh is currently in Los Angeles helping clients with their property plans. You can book a meeting with Niamh here.

My friend and colleague is right. It’s no secret that Portugal has emerged as one of the top relocation destinations for Americans, drawn by a unique blend of affordable living, an easygoing lifestyle and increasing opportunities for remote work. In recent years, Portugal’s charm has drawn Americans to Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve in record numbers. As political tension at home reaches new heights, more Americans are looking to Portugal’s shores for an appealing alternative. Here’s why.

There was this feeling that political fatigue has only grown

Politics is one of the most frequently cited reasons for the recent wave of American migration to Portugal we’ve seen here at Athena Advisers. With the ongoing polarisation in the United States, many Americans are looking for a more stable environment. Portugal, with its moderate social policies, universal healthcare and affordable private health care and focus on community welfare, seems like a breath of fresh air. It’s a place where politics doesn’t dominate everyday life - a relief for those weary of the constant barrage of contentious debates and divisive headlines.

I remember myself, eight years ago when I was in LA around the election. There was this feeling that in recent election cycles, this political fatigue had only grown. When I visit again later this November, I expect to talk to people who see Portugal as a relatively tranquil alternative, with a government and society that prioritise healthcare, education, and infrastructure, putting citizens first. Portugal and wider Europe, are not without their own political issues, but for many Americans, the lack of or at least tempered divisive rhetoric alone makes Portugal feel like a refuge, a place to enjoy life without the noise.

Cost of living - a high quality of life without breaking the bank

Prices have gone up everywhere. When I visit my colleagues in London, Rio, Paris and then rest, it’s hard to ignore. So the cost of living in Portugal is another big draw, especially when you compare it to the major US cities many Americans are leaving behind. Housing, food, healthcare and even dining out are significantly more affordable in Portugal.

Prime property is affordable when compared to other capitals around Europe. We see prices for well-located properties in Lisbon at an average of around €9,000 per square metre (~$915 per square foot) compared to Paris or London which are double or triple that . Groceries and dining out are similarly affordable, with meals priced around €12 (~$13) and grocery bills often 30% lower than in the US. This has created an ideal setup for American families, digital nomads and retirees looking to maximise their quality of life on a modest budget.

Healthcare, too, is accessible and affordable. Portugal’s public healthcare system is highly rated globally and private health insurance costs are much lower than U.S. equivalents. With a yearly private health insurance premium often under €1,000 (~$1,100) for a family, it’s no wonder that Americans, who are used to paying exorbitant healthcare costs, find peace of mind in Portugal.

A lifestyle that embraces balance and leisure

One of the biggest perks of moving to Portugal is the slower pace of life. Americans who have relocated here praise the emphasis on work-life balance, the laid-back culture and the prioritisation of family and leisure time. Portugal ranks highly on global quality of life indices, scoring well in terms of safety, public services and community.

In fact, Portugal ranked 7th out of 52 countries in a recent InterNations survey for quality of life, with expats rating the natural beauty and leisure options as key highlights. Families also find Portugal’s safety appealing; it’s one of the world’s safest countries, with crime rates much lower than in the US. Here, people can walk around at night without worry and enjoy a genuine sense of community.

Another cultural and lifestyle reason for Americans moving to Portugal is golf. Whilst Portugal's 90 courses are only a slice of America's roughly 15,000, Portugal's courses are concentrated in popular regions like the Algarve and Lisbon, making them highly accessible and appealing to golf enthusiasts within a compact and scenic area. Our mild climate, stunning landscapes, and world-class golf courses, make Portugal one of Europe’s top golfing destinations.

Portugal’s courses, such as Monte Rei in the Algarve and Oitavos Dunes near Lisbon, rank among the best globally, offering challenging yet accessible experiences that attract golf enthusiasts of all levels.

The business boom

Attracting wealthy retirees is good for some sectors, yet the future is in the younger generations and Portugal has begun to welcome them by becoming a hub for digital nomads, remote workers and entrepreneurs. The country’s Digital Nomad Visa allows individuals who make at least €2,800 (~$3,000) per month to live and work in Portugal. And the Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) programme, even in its more recently scaled-back version, provides Americans in sectors such as the sciences, engineering and financial services with significant tax breaks, including reduced taxes on foreign income for up to 10 years—a major draw for professionals of all ages.

Lisbon has become one of Europe’s leading tech hubs too, attracting American and international startups with a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Web Summit, one of the largest tech conferences worldwide, starts in a few days, bringing together tech leaders and investors each year. It has attracted hundreds of millions of euros of investment to Portugal and still has years before a new venue city will be considered.

Coastal appeal and cultural comforts

Portugal’s coastal cities like Lisbon and Porto are reminiscent of places like San Francisco and Los Angeles, with their ocean views, rolling hills and Mediterranean climate. Many Americans, especially those from the West Coast, feel right at home in this environment, where sunny skies and beaches are plentiful. Lisbon, for example, has over 300 days of sunshine per year, which is comparable to many of California’s coastal towns. The climate has made Portugal a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, surfers and sun-seekers.

Plus, Portugal’s lifestyle resonates with many Americans who enjoy live music, outdoor cafés and the warm, social culture that prioritises leisure and community. English is widely spoken, especially in Lisbon, making the transition smoother for Americans who may feel uneasy about language barriers.

In search of a fresh start

For Americans looking for a place where they can experience a higher quality of life, enjoy a mild climate and take a step back from the political divide, Portugal is proving to be a perfect fit. The combination of political stability, affordability, a welcoming business landscape and coastal appeal make Portugal more than just a destination—it’s a new beginning. And with more Americans relocating each year, this trend is reshaping Portugal’s own demographics and economy, cementing the country as a top choice for those ready to redefine home.