The number of Americans living in Portugal has been increasing rapidly since the NHR tax incentive program and the Golden Visa were first introduced over a decade ago, reaching a total of 6,885 according to the latest statistics published in September 2023 by the Portuguese Strategies and Studies Office.
Americans are intrigued and fascinated by the beauty, culture, and weather of Portugal, as it continues to be one of their top favorite countries for moving to Europe. The paradox is that they only represent about 1% of the total foreign resident population of Portugal, therefore the communities of American expats who have residency in Portugal are not as large as one would expect.
So, if you’re moving to Portugal and looking to be near fellow U.S. citizens for support and perhaps an easier transition to life abroad, where will you find them?
Here are the top cities with the largest number of American expats in Portugal:
1. Lisbon: 3,115 American expats
Lisbon, with a community of 3,115 US-born residents, is the bustling capital of Portugal and lies on the Atlantic Coast. The city’s wonderful Mediterranean climate, historic sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Tower of Belém, and its vibrant expat community make it a top choice for Americans relocating to Portugal.
With its cosmopolitan lifestyle, English-speaking locals, and a variety of international schools, Lisbon offers a smooth transition for American expats seeking a blend of adventure and familiarity.
2. Faro: 987 American expats
Faro is home to 987 American expats and is the capital of the Algarve region, renowned for its sunny weather, golden beaches, and golf resorts. The city’s laid-back lifestyle and the presence of other English-speaking expats provide a welcoming environment for Americans.
Also known as the best kept secret of Southern Europe, Faro‘s charming old town, modern amenities, and proximity to other picturesque towns in the Algarve make it an attractive location for retirees and those looking for a serene coastal life.
3. Porto: 681 American expats
Porto, where 681 Americans have chosen to reside, is the third largest community of US-born residents in Portugal, known for its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Ribeira district and its port wine cellars.
Situated in the North region on the Atlantic Coast, Porto offers a balanced mix of traditional Portuguese living with modern conveniences. The city’s friendly atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and cultural festivals are particularly appealing to American expats looking for a city with character and a high quality of life.
4. Leiria: 395 American expats
Leiria, with 395 US-born residents, is located in the Central region, is a lesser-known but popular location for Americans. The city is distinguished by its medieval castle and the nearby UNESCO-listed Batalha Monastery.
Expats like the quieter lifestyle of Leiria compared to the bustling coastal cities, yet still close to ample cultural experiences. Its community feel, scenic landscapes, and affordability make Leiria an attractive spot for Americans seeking a peaceful yet enriching Portuguese experience.
5. Azores: 382 American expats
The Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal, are a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean that 382 Americans call home. Known for their stunning natural beauty, including volcanic landscapes and hot springs, the Azores are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The relaxed pace of life, friendly locals, and the English-speaking community make it easy for Americans to settle in and enjoy a life close to nature. It is also the most affordable region to live in Portugal and a popular retirement destination.
6. Setubal: 244 American expats
Setubal, with 244 US-born residents, is a coastal city in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area. It’s famous for its dolphin-watching opportunities in the Sado Estuary and the nearby Arrábida Natural Park.
The city’s affordable living, fresh seafood cuisine, and proximity to Lisbon’s amenities while still offering a more relaxed pace of life attract American expats looking for a balance between nature and city life.
7. Coimbra: 221 American expats
Home to 221 Americans, Coimbra is located in the Central region and is the site of one of the world’s oldest universities. The city is known for its academic traditions, historical buildings, and the annual Queima das Fitas celebration.
Coimbra‘s rich cultural scene and the youthful vibe, thanks to its student population, make it a lively and intellectual hub for American residents. The city offers all the conveniences of a large urban area, including a great variety of shopping, dining and entertainment for a fulfilling life abroad.
8. Madeira: 162 American expats
Madeira, an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, hosts 162 American expats. Famed for its namesake wine, lush botanical gardens, and New Year’s fireworks, Madeira offers a subtropical climate and stunning mountainous terrain.
The island’s mix of Portuguese culture and outdoor activities provides an appealing lifestyle for Americans looking for an island retreat, while also being a top retirement destination for thousands of foreigners, including British citizens.
9. Aveiro: 152 American expats
Aveiro, known as the ‘Venice of Portugal,’ is home to 152 Americans and is located in the Central region of Portugal. The city is highly-recognizable by its beautiful canals, colorful boats called moliceiros, and adorable Art Nouveau buildings.
Its small size, welcoming residents, and proximity to beautiful beaches make Aveiro an ideal spot for American expats who appreciate quaint charm, an elegant setting, and a nice pace of life.
10. Braga: 128 American expats
In the Northern region, Braga is home to 128 American expats and is known as a religious center with its impressive Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary. Among the reasons expats choose to settle in Braga are its afordability and understated beauty.
The city’s combination of historic sites, a strong sense of community, and a vibrant tech scene make it suitable for American expats who value tradition as well as innovation.
11. Viana do Castelo: 91 American expats
Viana do Castelo, in the North region with 91 American residents, boasts a rich maritime history and stunning architecture like the Santuário de Santa Luzia.
The city’s traditional festivities, such as the Romaria de Nossa Senhora da Agonia, and its scenic location by the Lima River and Atlantic coast make it a culturally vibrant and picturesque place for Americans to live.
12. Santarém: 87 American expats
Santarém, in the central region, is home to 87 US-born inhabitants. Known as the Gothic capital of Portugal, the city’s interesting past, beautiful traditional architecture, combined with its modern agricultural market, offers a unique blend of old and new. For expats on a budget, Santarem is one of the best affordable places in Portugal to buy property.
Surrounded by green hills, wide-open spaces, and good hiking trails by the Tagus River, Santarem is ideal for those looking to live in healthy, rural surroundings with enough modern-day amenities available for a comfortable living. The annual National Agriculture Fair is the main event in the city.
13. Beja: 53 American expats
53 American expats settled in Beja, in the Alentejo region, a slow-paced town set among vast plains. Most notable about Beja is its Roman and Moorish heritage, reflected in landmarks like the Castelo de Beja, which gives off a deep sense of history.
The region’s renowned wine and olive oil production, along with its tranquil lifestyle, attract Americans looking for a retreat into the Portuguese countryside, with plenty of healthy activities to do in and around town.
14. Viseu: 48 American expats
Viseu, home to 48 Americans, is nestled in the Dão wine region of central Portugal. The city is celebrated for its green spaces like Parque do Fontelo and its historical center.
The blend of rural charm and urban amenities, including cultural events like the Feira de São Mateus, makes Viseu a desirable location for expats seeking a balance between nature and city life.
15. Castelo Branco: 37 American expats
Located in the central region of Portugal, Castelo Branco, with 37 American residents, is recognized for its embroidered linens and the Jardim do Paço Episcopal. Many other expats from English-speaking countries also call Castelo Branco home.
The subdued atmosphere, affordability, and warm climate of Castelo Branco are particularly enticing to Americans seeking a relaxed and cost-effective European lifestyle.
16. Évora: 27 American expats
The beautiful town of Évora, where 27 residents originally from the United States live, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Alentejo region. Known for its well-preserved old town and landmarks like the Roman Temple of Évora, the city offers a historical ambiance and an eye-pleasing architecture.
Its vibrant university scene and rich cultural life, along with the famous Alentejo cuisine, make Évora an attractive place for American expats who are looking for a warm and welcoming home abroad.
17. Guarda: 25 American expats
Guarda, the highest city in Portugal, hosts 25 American expats and is situated in the central region. Its proximity to the Serra da Estrela mountain range makes it ideal for outdoor and mountain enthusiasts.
The city’s ancient fortifications, like the Guarda Cathedral, and its snowy winters offer an affordable and unique living experience in Portugal.
18. Portalegre: 23 American expats
Portalegre, with its 23 US-born residents, is tucked away in the Alentejo region, known for its gentle hills and historical heritage. The city is famous for its tapestry and textiles, which mirror its rich artisan culture. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the São Mamede Natural Park, Portalegre offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling tourist paths.
It’s an ideal spot for American expats who are drawn to the arts and value the quiet rhythm of life. With its charming old town, cultural institutions, and local culinary delights, Portalegre provides a quintessentially Portuguese experience with a touch of home comfort for its American residents.
19. Vila Real: 22 American expats
Vila Real, with 22 US-born residents, sits in the North region amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Douro Valley, famous for its wine production. The city’s baroque architecture, like the Mateus Palace, and its proximity to natural parks provide a culturally and naturally rich environment.
Vila Real’s traditional gastronomy and quiet, family-friendly atmosphere are appealing to Americans seeking a genuine Portuguese experience.
20. Bragança: 5 American expats
Bragança, in the far northeast of Portugal with a small American community of 5 residents, is a city where medieval meets modern. The city is crowned by a castle complex and is close to the Montesinho Natural Park.
Bragança’s remote location offers a peaceful lifestyle and is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic culture and natural beauty of Portugal’s Trás-os-Montes region.
Keep in mind that these numbers include only expats who hold official residency in Portugal. There are likely many other Americans living in numerous Portuguese cities, towns and villages that are either in the process of obtaining residency or on a temporary stay in Portugal.
