American Family Finds Affordable Living, Warm Community in Portugal

In early 2020, a family of three from West Palm Beach, Florida, relocated to Central Portugal after falling in love with the region during a vacation. What began as a temporary stay in an Airbnb on farmland near Coimbra turned into a three-year adventure when the homeowners offered to sell the property. The family seized the opportunity, drawn by the lower cost of living, welcoming community, and stunning natural landscapes.

One of the primary reasons for the move was affordability. According to the Miami Association of Realtors, the median sale price of a home in Palm Beach County was $363,000 in January 2020. In contrast, the family found houses in their Portuguese neighborhood listed for less than $250,000. Essentials like groceries, medicine, and even road tolls were significantly cheaper. In Florida, the family spent about $150 weekly on essentials, but in Portugal, that figure dropped to around $80.

Dining out also proved more economical. A meal for three in Portugal cost approximately $31, while similar meals in the U.S. rarely came in under $50. The family also experienced the generosity of their new neighbors, who regularly shared freshly picked produce. At stores, locals often ushered the family to the front of lines when they saw them with their young child—a stark contrast to their experiences in Florida, where people sometimes cut in line.

The natural beauty of Portugal left a lasting impression. The family described the country as reminiscent of U.S. national parks, with majestic mountains, unspoiled landscapes, and an extensive network of nature trails, walking paths, and natural pools. They noted that such accessibility to nature was less common in their Florida hometown.

Cultural differences also stood out. In Portugal, families often dined later, with dinner typically starting around 8 p.m. Children played while parents socialized, and bedtime for kids was often after 9 p.m. This contrasted with the family’s routine in the U.S., where dinner was at 6 p.m., and their child was in bed by 7:30 p.m.

The family’s experience highlights the affordability, community warmth, and natural splendor that make Portugal an attractive destination for expatriates. Their story underscores the growing trend of Americans seeking a slower, more affordable pace of life abroad.