The affordable cost of living in Portugal has attracted many expats from all over the world. If you are planning to move to this country, it is important to know what it costs to live here, especially if you rely on a fixed income. Prices of goods have gone up in the past few years. Lisbon, the country's capital, ranked 47th out of the 58 most expensive cities in the world. The cost of living in the major cities is now around the European Union average and compares very favorably with the UK, Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium.
Before moving to Portugal, try to find out more about the average prices of certain products and services. Water prices vary from one region to another. Service is included in the bill in restaurants. However, it is customary to leave a tip of up to 10 percent of the total. Food and drink prices vary depending on the type of establishment and whether or not the cost includes a table service. Basic products can be found locally cheaper. If you are prepared to live like a local, you can enjoy smaller grocery bills living in this country. Fruit, vegetables, and fish from markets have extremely low prices. If you stick to pork and chicken, meat is cheap too.
Shops are open from Monday to Friday. In the holiday season, they tend to stay open on Saturday afternoons and even on Sundays. There are many shopping centers inside and outside major cities. They are usually open every day of the week. For less than 600 euros per month, you can rent a luxury apartment with two or three rooms. If you want to live in a villa with private pool, you will have to pay 1000 euros plus.
There is no council tax to pay for those who are renting a property in Portugal. Even though income taxes are higher, married couples can combine and share their allowances. Social security is high for those who are self employed. Buying a car in Portugal can be very costly. Petrol is some of the most expensive in the world. As compared to London, public transport is almost laughably cheap. Car tax is much lower too. The train services are prompt and much more affordable than you would find elsewhere in Europe. As a general rule of thumb, products that have been imported to this country are far more expensive than what you may be used to in the UK.
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