Discovering Porto: A Guide for Expats

Find you perfect home

When it comes to the cost of living in Porto, there are various factors to consider, including your spending habits, needs, and personal preferences. To give you an idea, here are some estimates provided by Numbeo as of June 2023.

The overall cost of living in Porto is approximately 10% lower than in Lisbon (without rent). The difference in rental costs is even more pronounced, with apartment rentals in Porto being, on average, 29.9% lower than in Lisbon. These figures highlight the variable cost of living in Portugal.

It is advisable to work alongside a reliable agent when searching for an ideal residency to avoid scams related to rentals. Porto is considered as one of the most reasonably priced cities in Western Europe and it has a unique charm and character. Note that the average monthly cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is between €850 and €1000. Apart from the rent, you should budget for utilities (around €150), groceries (€200 - €250), and public transportation (€40 for a monthly pass).

To further understand why Porto is both attractive and reasonably priced, let us take a closer look into some of its top neighbourhoods, each with unique features and tales.

One of the most historically important and tourist-friendly parts of Porto is the charming area of Ribeira. This picturesque neighbourhood is lined with colourful 18th-century townhouses, exuding a sense of timelessness and beauty. Living here can truly be a dream come true, especially for those who appreciate a vibrant atmosphere.

For families seeking a great place to live, Boavista is an excellent choice. This residential area is renowned for its manicured gardens, cultural hubs like Casa da Música, and a wide selection of exceptional restaurants.

Bonfim exudes an irresistible charm. With captivating views of the Douro River, trendy bars, and the presence of local Portuguese seniors peering out from windows, Bonfim is a hidden gem that isn't typically overrun by tourists. Offering excellent connectivity to the transport system, it remains a beloved part of town.

Massarelos, home to the renowned botanical gardens, Jardim Palácio de Cristal, and captivating viewpoints; it is the perfect haven for university students and nature enthusiasts in Porto.

Transportation

Porto brings forth one distinct advantage: its intimate, small-town vibe. Public transport is incredibly convenient and reliable, even outside the city centre. In fact, due to the short distances, it is quite feasible to explore the city on foot. While metro system holds utmost popularity due to its speed and affordability, other options such as buses, yellow trams, and trains are also readily available.

The monthly pass is priced at €40, a fraction of the cost when compared to current gasoline prices. While a car may be beneficial if you live far from your workplace, for most people, public transport suffices perfectly.

Work and Business

The Northern region of Portugal thrives with a bustling labour market that teems with opportunities for career growth. Alongside Lisbon, the vibrant city of Porto stands as a prominent industrial and economic centre, drawing the attention of ambitious professionals. If you yearn for suitable job prospects, Porto should be on your radar.

As we delve further into the realm of opportunities, it is essential to recognise the flourishing sectors in Portugal. The fields of Pharmaceuticals, Engineering, and IT are experiencing tremendous growth, paving the way for countless possibilities. You can find job listings through online job portals, networking, and local newspapers.

Health and Education

Beyond professional matters, Porto shines with its commendable healthcare system and educational institutions. Even as a bustling city, Porto's hospitals and health centres consistently deliver reliable healthcare services. For those seeking expedited appointments and shorter queues, private healthcare options are also available, complementing the already well-established public healthcare system.

When it comes to education, Porto proudly boasts some of the nation's finest public schools and Universities. While the Portuguese educational system boasts quality, it is important to note that classes are conducted in Portuguese. For individuals seeking English, French, or German-speaking teachers, there are several international schools within the metropolitan area of Porto, offering the International Baccalaureate programme.

Safety

As safety is paramount, Porto is widely regarded as a secure city for residents and visitors alike. Portugal itself holds the prestigious position of being the world's Seventh safest country, according to the Global Peace Index 2023. This heightened sense of security, coupled with the captivating allure of Porto, attracts expatriates from all corners of the globe.

Nonetheless, as is the case with any bustling tourist destination, precautions can go a long way in minimising inconveniences. Petty thefts, often committed by pickpockets, can occur in busy tourist centres and public transportation. While this issue prevails worldwide, exercising caution and remaining vigilant can significantly diminish these risks. Rest assured, the warm-hearted Portuguese locals epitomise hospitality, progressivism, and open-mindedness. Hate crimes and discrimination are vehemently condemned, ensuring your safety from major offences.

Leisure and Nightlife in Porto

Porto, a city that never sleeps, offers an abundance of leisure activities and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you are seeking entertainment, concerts, shopping, or meeting new people, Porto has it all. With a variety of excellent restaurants, trendy bars, and a diverse international community, there is something for everyone. Furthermore, sports, particularly football, hold great importance in the city as it captures the nation's passion.

Porto is widely regarded as one of the best cities to live in Portugal. We dare saying it is easy to fall in love with Porto, with its thriving cultural scene, abundant opportunities, artistry, and captivating landscapes. Not to mention, it offers a more affordable cost of living compared to many other European cities without compromising on infrastructure.

In light of this, to facilitate your relocation to Porto, it is essential to acquaint yourself with the city and its customs. Take the time to learn about the local language and culture. If you approach the transition with an open mind, positive outlook, and a desire to explore, you will be able to adjust to life in the city in no time.

Portugal offers a great opportunity for those who are highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote workers, digital nomads, and retirees. The process for relocating to this flourishing country is straightforward and there are a range of residence permit options available. Additionally, after completing 5 years as a legal permanent resident, you can be eligible for citizenship in Portugal through the residency programme.

If you would like more information about moving to Porto, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you.