Which is cheaper to buy property, Spain or Portugal?

Is property cheaper in Spain or Portugal? Buying property in Portugal is cheaper than it is in Spain, and with attractive rental yields in Lisbon and the Algarve, you can understand why Portugal is such a popular choice for investors.

Are houses cheaper in Portugal or Spain?

After browsing through thousands of houses had a peek outside their borders to check the prices with their neighbour - Spain. Been quite surprised to see houses 30-40% cheaper there. Especially with GDP per capita in Portugal being lower than in Spain.

What are the pitfalls of buying property in Portugal?

What are the disadvantages of buying a property in Spain?

Spanish property hidden costs

Aside from the property's purchase price, there will be additional costs such as property taxes, registration fees, and notary fees. Make sure you include these expenses in the final cost of your property to reduce the risk of going over budget and putting yourself under financial strain.

How long can I stay in Portugal if I own a property?

You're allowed to spend up to 90 days in Portugal within any 180-day period without a visa. For longer stays, you'll need to apply for a residence visa or permit.

Cheap Houses for Sale in Spain #cheap

How much is health insurance in Portugal?

Private insurance in Portugal is generally quite cheap. This could cost between 20 and 50 EUR (22–55 USD) a month, depending on your age and the extent of your coverage. This means you can pay anywhere between 400 EUR (440 USD) a year for a basic plan and 1,000 EUR (1,100 USD) yearly for a more well-rounded coverage.

Is it wise to buy a property in Spain now?

Is buying a house as an investment in Spain a Good idea? The Spanish property market has varied a lot in recent years, but it has been in a recovery phase since its terrible 30% drop between 2008 and 2014. Buying Spanish property is an excellent investment right now.

What is the downside of retiring in Spain?

High taxes.

Tax residents in Spain pay taxes on both global and local income on a progressive scale of 19 to 47%. The maximum rate is higher than in the USA, Canada, or Malta. Residents pay a 19% income tax for the first €6,000 of taxable income. A 47% tax rate applies to income over €300,000.

Can I live in Spain full time if I buy a property?

Can I get residency in Spain if I buy a house? Yes, if you are a non-EU citizen, you can obtain a residence permit in Spain valid for 3 years as long as the property you purchase is valued at over €500,000. This residency is famously called golden visa, and comes with great advantages (which we will explore below).

Which part of Portugal is best to buy property?

What taxes do you pay when buying a house in Portugal?

The municipal tax on property transfer is called Imposto Municipal sobre a Transmissão Onerosa de Imóveis (IMT). It ranges from 0 to 8%, depending on the property's value and type. The buyer pays the tax before signing the sales agreement. If the property is located in rural areas, IMT is 5%.

Which area of Portugal is the cheapest for property?

What is the cheapest area to buy property in Portugal? Inland regions like the Alentejo and Serra da Estrela offer some of the lowest prices in Portugal. Renovation-ready cottages can be found for under €50,000 in certain areas.

Is it better to retire in Spain or Portugal?

The main difference between retiring in Spain and Portugal lies in cost, taxes, and lifestyle. Portugal offers lower living costs, tax breaks for foreign retirees, and a welcoming expat culture. Spain provides better public transport, larger cities, and world-class healthcare.

Do you pay more tax in Spain or Portugal?

In 2025, the gap between Spain and Portugal is narrower than in previous years due to the phase-out of Portugal's NHR regime. However, Portugal still generally offers: Lower tax burden on wealth and inheritance. More favourable treatment for retirees already under NHR.

Why are Spanish properties so cheap?

The Spanish property market is underpinned by low interest rates and foreign demand. Spanish property remains cheap relative to the UK.

Is healthcare in Portugal free for UK citizens?

If you're an EU citizen, with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you'll be able to access Portugal's public healthcare system and receive free healthcare for up to 90 days. After that, you'll either need to register as a legal resident to keep using the SNS, or you'll need private healthcare cover.

Is it easy to retire to Portugal?

Your savings, social security, or pension can go a long way when retiring in Portugal. Portugal offers a low cost of living and you will be able to rent or buy a desirable home for relatively cheap. A retired couple could live comfortably in Portugal for between $1,500 and $2,000 per month.

How much does an MRI scan cost in Portugal?

The cost is around €170 in Portugal without insurance, compared to $800 or more in the U.S. An MRI without contrast costs around €275 without insurance in Portugal, compared to $1,300 or more in the U.S.

How much do you need to retire from the UK to Portugal?

Cost of Living in Portugal for Retirees

Comfortable Living Budget: According to Numbeo's 2025 data, the monthly cost of living for a retired couple in Portugal varies depending on their lifestyle and location. To live comfortably, a retired couple would need a monthly budget of approximately €2,500 to €3,000.

Which is the easiest country to emigrate to from the UK?

What is the 183 day rule in Portugal?

You're generally considered a Portuguese tax resident if you: Spend 183 days or more in Portugal during any 12-month period starting or ending in the relevant tax year, or. Maintain a habitual residence in Portugal on December 31, even if you stay fewer than 183 days.

Do you need a Spanish bank account to buy property?

Should you need a mortgage, you will also need a Spanish bank account. Some Spanish banks accept opening bank accounts for non-residents in Spain from abroad, but some others require to sign the opening of the account in Spain, personally or through an attorney, and again, this can take some time.

Where can British citizens live permanently?

What do I need to know before moving to Spain?

What should I know before deciding to move to Spain? You should understand the legal requirements for residency in Spain, the cost of living, and the cultural differences you might encounter. It's also important to consider the climate, healthcare system, and the job market if you plan to work.