Moving to Porto in 2025? Here’s what you need to know about rentals, visas, and why this colorful Portuguese city is becoming a favorite among expats.
Porto is Portugal’s second city — but don’t call it a runner-up. With its winding alleys, river views, and tiled façades, Porto offers a slower, more soulful alternative to Lisbon. And while the city has become trendier in recent years, it still feels lived-in, local, and — importantly — affordable.
Key Facts About Porto (Portugal)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | ~230,000 (city), ~1.7 million metro area |
| Language | Portuguese. English widely spoken in youth and tourism sectors |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Average Rent | €700–1,300/month (1-bedroom in good area) |
| Average Net Salary | €1,100–1,800 |
| Digital Nomad Budget | €1,500–3,000/month |
| Health Insurance | Public (SNS) + private (~€40/month) |
| Safety Level | Very high – calm and walkable city |
| Public Transport | Metro, trams, trains, buses (~€40–50/month pass) |
| Climate | Oceanic – mild winters, cool summers, often breezy |
| Residence Permit / Long Stay | D7 Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, work, investment |
| Education | University of Porto, private and international schools |
| Grocery Prices | Moderate – wide choice of stores and fresh markets |
| Access to Nature | Beaches, Douro River, green parks, hills and vineyards |
| City Atmosphere | Artistic, historic, relaxed, increasingly international |
Renting in Porto: Prices Rising, But Still Manageable
Porto’s popularity has pushed up prices, but you can still find character-filled apartments or brand-new builds at fair rates, especially if you look just outside the city center. Furnished options are common, and long-term contracts typically require a 2-month deposit.
Average monthly rent in 2025:
- Studio in Bonfim or Cedofeita: €700–900
- 1-bedroom in central Porto: €900–1,300
- 2-bedroom in Foz or Vila Nova de Gaia: €1,300–1,800
- Utilities: €100–130/month
- Internet: ~€30/month
- Deposit: 1–2 months
Looking for a place to stay? See long-term rental listings in Porto on XMetr.
Visas and Residency: Portugal Makes It Easy
Portugal is one of the most expat-friendly countries in Europe. Popular options:
- D7 Visa – for remote workers, retirees, or passive income earners
- Digital Nomad Visa – introduced in 2023, requires ~€3,280/month income
- Student Visa – for those enrolled in university programs
- Golden Visa – available with significant investments
- EU/EEA citizens – can register for residency with minimal paperwork
After 5 years of legal residency, you’re eligible for permanent residency or citizenship.
Language and Local Life
Portuguese is the official language, and knowing some basics helps — even if many locals speak English. You’ll hear more Portuguese in Porto than in Lisbon’s tourist bubble, and that’s part of its charm.
Daily life includes long café stops, riverside strolls, and a strong community feel. People are warm but private; once you connect, you’re in for life.
Where to Live in Porto
- Cedofeita – artsy, walkable, full of cafés
- Bonfim – local charm, more affordable, creative scene
- Foz do Douro – upscale, quiet, ocean views
- Boavista – business area, modern condos, less touristy
- Vila Nova de Gaia – across the river, more space for your money
- Paranhos – near universities, good for students and young professionals
Public transport is clean, reliable, and affordable, but many choose to walk — Porto is compact (and hilly!).
Top 5 Best Neighborhoods in Porto for Long-Term Living
| Neighborhood | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| 1. Cedofeita | Young, trendy, full of culture, cafés, and coworking spots. |
| 2. Foz do Douro | Upscale, beachside, peaceful – perfect for families and sea lovers. |
| 3. Bonfim | Bohemian, artistic, affordable, and up-and-coming. |
| 4. Boavista | Modern, residential, great for professionals and families. |
| 5. Ribeira / Baixa | Central, walkable, charming with riverside views and history. |
Cost of Living in Porto
You can live well here without overspending — especially compared to other European cities.
- Rent: €900–1,400/month
- Utilities: €110/month
- Groceries: €200–300/month
- Public transport pass: €40/month
- Coffee: €1.20
- Dinner for two: €35–60
- Gym: €30–50/month
- Private health insurance: €40–80/month
A comfortable lifestyle for one: €1,800–2,500/month.
Work and Income
Porto’s economy includes:
- Tech and startups (growing fast)
- Remote work – popular with Europeans
- Tourism and hospitality
- Design, architecture, and creative fields
- English teaching and university-related work
Coworking spaces are plentiful, especially around Cedofeita and downtown. Internet is fast and reliable citywide.
| Profession | Avg. Gross Salary per Month (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | €2,500 |
| IT Project Manager | €3,100 |
| UX/UI Designer | €2,100 |
| Architect | €2,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | €2,300 |
| General Practitioner (Doctor) | €3,700 |
| Nurse | €1,700 |
| High School Teacher | €1,800 |
| Marketing Specialist | €2,200 |
| Accountant | €2,100 |
Healthcare: Public and Private Options
Portugal has a universal healthcare system, but many expats also get private insurance.
- Public healthcare: Free or low-cost for residents
- Doctor visit (private): €40–60
- Dental cleaning: ~€50
- Insurance (private): €40–80/month
- Emergency services: Widely accessible
Final Thoughts: Is Porto Right for You?
Porto doesn’t overwhelm. It draws you in — with a glass of vinho verde, a cobbled hill, and the sense that you could actually build a life here.
It’s got the basics: safety, healthcare, affordability. But it also has soul — something many cities lose chasing the spotlight. If Lisbon is the show, Porto is the song you remember.
Also check out our article on Moving to Batumi