Top 5 Places in Portugal Where Americans Are Building New Lives
- Joshua Godin
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Moving to Portugal is just the first step of many in how you're going to change your life. For many Americans, choosing where to settle is one of the biggest, and most exciting, decisions and living in Portugal means you have a lot to choose from.
From sun-drenched beaches to medieval towns to culture-rich cities, Portugal offers a surprisingly wide range of lifestyle options. Here are five of the top places where Americans are creating fresh starts and why each one is uniquely compelling.
1. Lisbon: For City Lovers Who Want Charm Without the Chaos
Portugal’s capital city is a natural draw for Americans craving cultural vibrancy, walkability, and ocean views and it's all in a much more relaxed setting than New York or L.A.
Why Americans Love It:
English widely spoken
Strong international expat network
Endless cafés, co-working spots, and weekend getaways
Access to top hospitals, international schools, and public transport
Lisbon combines modern infrastructure with cobblestone beauty, making it ideal for professionals, couples, or anyone craving a slower urban life.
2. The Algarve: For Sunseekers and Coastal Dreamers
Portugal’s southern coastline has long been popular with British retirees but more recently, Americans are discovering it too.
Why Americans Love It:
300+ days of sunshine per year
Low crime, high safety, and strong community feel
Outdoor lifestyle: golf, sailing, hiking, fresh seafood
Relaxed pace of life with English-speaking locals
Towns like Lagos, Tavira, and Vilamoura each offer a different blend of beach life and charm. For many, it feels like a permanent vacation but with enough infrastructure for an enjoyable daily life.
3. Porto: For Creative Souls and Wine Lovers
Porto is a northern gem: smaller than Lisbon, but brimming with character. Its riverside beauty, food scene, and rich culture are drawing in a new wave of expats looking for inspiration.
Why Americans Love It:
Lower cost of living than Lisbon or the Algarve
Historic architecture and walkable streets
Booming creative and tech scenes
Proximity to the Douro Valley and world-famous wine
If you want authenticity, stunning views, and a touch of old-world charm, Porto might just steal your heart.
4. Cascais: For Those Who Want the Best of Both Worlds
Located just 30 minutes from Lisbon by train, Cascais offers a peaceful, upscale lifestyle by the sea—without losing touch with the city.
Why Americans Love It:
Elegant villas and seaside promenades
High-end shops, great restaurants, and oceanfront cafés
Excellent schools and healthcare
Family-friendly, but never boring
Cascais is especially popular with families and early retirees who want beauty, calm, and convenience in equal measure.
5. The Silver Coast: For Space, Nature, and Lower Prices for Living in Portugal
Stretching between Lisbon and Porto, the Silver Coast is still relatively under-the-radar among Americans—but that’s changing fast.
Why Americans Love It:
More affordable real estate and rentals
Breathtaking Atlantic views and quiet beaches
Small-town life with strong community connections
Easy access to major cities and motorways
Towns like Nazaré, Caldas da Rainha, and Óbidos offer a more rural, authentic experience—perfect for those looking to downsize stress and upsize space.
So... Where’s Your Portugal?
Whether you picture your new life in a sunny beach town or a buzzing cultural capital, Portugal has a place for you. Americans are no longer just dreaming about moving—they’re actually doing it. And they’re finding joy, calm, and community in places they never expected.
Thinking about your next step?
We’ve helped Americans just like you explore what life could look like in Portugal—beyond the headlines and into the details. If you're wondering how to make it happen, we're here to talk.
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