Should I Move to Spain or Portugal?

Are you struggling to choose between relocating to Spain or Portugal? We’re here to break it down for you, comparing both countries across key factors that matter most, so you can make the best decision for your next adventure

Craving sun-soaked days, rich culture, and a blissfully relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle? Spain and Portugal consistently top the list for Brits dreaming of a move abroad—and it’s easy to see why.

Both countries boast warm climates, stunning coastlines, and a cost of living significantly lower than the UK, making them ideal for anyone seeking a fresh start, an adventurous new chapter, or the perfect spot to retire. But choosing between these two gems comes down to what suits your lifestyle, ambitions, and personal goals.

Spain dazzles with its energetic cities, regional diversity, and world-famous tapas culture. Portugal, on the other hand, enchants with its slower pace, picturesque landscapes, and unbeatable affordability. Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Madrid, the charm of Lisbon, the golden sands of the Algarve, or the glamorous Costa del Sol, both countries offer a unique flavour of Mediterranean living.

In this post, we’ll dive into the essentials—climate, beaches, career opportunities, cost of living, and cultural differences—to help you decide which destination is your perfect match. Whether you’re chasing adventure, peace or a dream retirement, we’ll guide you every step of the way. If you require a removal service to Spain or Portugal, we can also help.

Let’s find your next home under the sun!

1. Climate – Winner Spain

Spain

Spain attracts so many British tourists because of its Mediterranean climate, which means long, hot summers and mild winters – often a welcome change from our home turf! That said, you can’t move to any part of the country and just assume it’ll be the weather you’ve experienced on holiday. Spain has a diverse climate, and more inland areas (such as Madrid, Segovia, Castile and Leon, Salamanca, Burgos and Valladolid) can experience more temperatures in summer and chillier weather through the winter months.

Portugal

Portugal too attracts a great volume of British tourists, but generally the country experiences milder temperatures than Spain. While not quite akin to the rain and short summers we’re used to in the UK, the Atlantic influence keeps Portugal’s weather more moderate, with warm rather than extremely hot summers. The good news is, the winters are still mild compared to home, especially if you’re resident along the coast.

2. Beaches – Winner Spain for its energy and variety

Spain

Spain is world famous for its beaches, which attract millions every year. Its vast and varied coastlines are known for some of the warmer waters in the Mediterranean, with the Costa del Sol and Costa Brava proving particularly popular with both domestic and overseas visitors. What’s more, Spain’s Balearic Islands and Canary Islands present opportunities for even brighter and whiter beaches, with a great deal of the economy propped up by tourism and seasonal occupations.

Portugal

While a little cooler than Spain, Portugal is known for the Algarve’s stunning beaches that present a picture-perfect landscape year-round. The Atlantic waters make its beaches ideal for surfing and watersports, so anyone wanting to get active in the water rather than just sunbathing on the sand can take full advantage of the locales on offer.

Of course, for both countries, it’s worth remembering that once you live there, you can easily travel and explore further. Both Spain and Portugal have great holiday package deals available for residents, with shorter journey times and easier access to amenities.

3. Cost of Living Comparison – Winner Portugal for affordability

Spain

As Brits may expect, the cost of living in Spain is cheaper than that in the UK; but they fluctuate between areas, with big cities such as Madrid and Barcelona coming up more expensive than smaller towns and more rural areas. Housing prices in Spain are around 20% lower than in the UK, but average rental prices are around the same. Bargains can be had on water and energy bills at up to 40% cheaper than in Britain, and groceries and goods are generally cheaper. Is Spain or Portugal cheaper to live in? Currently Portugal wins out.

Portugal

The cost of living in Portugal is cheaper than both Spain and the UK. Lisbon and Porto are the two most costly places to live in the country, but both remain less so than Spain. Both properties to buy and rent are cheaper than the UK (the latter at over 31% less!), groceries are well over 20% less, and the country’s modest public transport costs coming in at almost 60% cheaper. Utilities vary, but are usually less than the UK, and with rising competitive salaries on offer for expats thanks to emerging and developing industries, can prove prosperous for new arrivals.

4. Property Comparison – Winner Portugal for cheaper property prices

Spain

Spanish property prices can be high in large cities and coastal areas, but more affordable inland. On average, house prices are around €2,200 (£1,854) per sq. m., but this rises to around €3,534 (£2978) in the Balearic Islands and a little less in Madrid. Renting a property can be expensive, as most are owner-occupied so the market is under high demand. The average rent in Madrid and Sevilla is around €1,000 (£842), rising to €2,300 (£1938)  in Malaga and Valencia. Renting a home in Spain as an expat does carry additional regulations and requirements to that of a citizen, and so it is recommended that you seek legal advice in doing so.

Portugal

Buying a property in Portugal will average around €1,800 (£1516)  per sq. m., but across Alentejo up to €2,700 (£2274) and the Algarve up to €3,900 (£3284). House prices dropped through 2023 thanks to mortgage interest rates decreasing and slowing inflation, but have risen a couple of percentage points since. When renting, Lisbon is extremely competitive with monthly rents of around €1,100 (£926) for a one-bedroom apartment, and the picturesque Azores coming in with the cheapest rents in the whole country! Is it better to buy a house in Spain or Portugal? Portugal is certainly the cheaper option but demand is slowly rising.

5. Job Market Comparison – Winner Spain due to size and industry diversity

Spain

Spain is the larger of the two country’s economies, but has experienced high unemployment rates in recent years. As of January 2025, the country’s unemployment rate sits at 11.20% – but this considerably lower than its long-term average of 16.36%. This said, opportunities are rife for the right candidates in tourism, IT and finance – but it is recommended that expats have secured employment ahead of relocation if they intend to work while living in Spain. Indeed Spanish working visas are often processed quicker than other types, so this adds a further advantage to the process of your move.

Portugal

Portugal has a population around four times smaller than Spain’s, so there is a considerably smaller job market. However, the country is not to be scoffed at when it comes to development. In major cities such as Lisbon and Porto, emerging sectors are blossoming including technology and start-ups, with a solid backline in international tourism. Professionals will find the salaries on offer in Portugal are competitive, and particularly so compared to smaller European countries.

6. Outdoor Activities – Winner Draw

Spain

It can be easy to immediately conjure mental images of sunbathing on beaches and riding on banana boats when you think of Spain’s outdoor lifestyle, but although the coastline does offer a whole host of watersports, that’s not all there is to the country! Hiking, walking and mountain biking are popular in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada. You’ll also find skiing opportunities here, as well as smaller ski resorts near Madrid.

Portugal

The stunning landscapes of Portugal make it the ideal locale for hiking and walking, but the jewel in its outdoor crown is the surf scene along the Algarve. The Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores also have ample opportunities for outdoor exploration – including hiking and cycling through Madeira’s UNESCO World Heritage Site and exploring the Azores’ tea plantations. The Douro River is also worth a visit – it can be experienced by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, water ski or sailboat.

7. Retirement – Winner Portugal for lower overall costs

Spain

Spain has long been a popular retirement destinations for Brits, but moving there after your working years is a little trickier post-Brexit, as the EU (European Union) ‘Freedom of Movement’ has been lost. Non-EU citizens must prove they have enough income to support themselves without working, and can apply for a residence permit through either a non-lucrative or family reunification visa. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most popular places to retire to in Spain are Madrid, Valencia, the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca.

Portugal

Portugal has been gaining in popularity with retirees over the last few years thanks to its affordable cost of living, reasonable property prices and laidback lifestyle. The D7 ‘passive income’ visa is the most common route for Brits retiring to Portugal, and Lisbon, Cascais and Madeira all have thriving expat communities. But is Portugal friendlier than Spain? Both are certainly very social in different ways, but Portugal is perhaps more reserved.

8. Visas – Winner Portugal for easier residency and tax incentives

Spain

Spain offers a variety of both lucrative and non-lucrative visas to British nationals, including work visas, digital nomad visas (for remote workers), student visas, and options for entrepreneurs, investors and retirees. Spain’s visa system is fairly swift at application processing, with most visa types being approved within six weeks, and many less. For the most part Spain’s immigration authorities are generally favourable toward British nationals, which can make retiring in Spain vs Portugal beneficial.

Portugal

Portugal’s residence visa options are classified as ‘D’ visas, including: D2 visa (for professional activities and entrepreneurship), D3 visa (for teaching and cultural activities), D4 visa (for research and study), and the D7 visa (for passive income earners). But is it easy for Brits to move to Portugal? Visa application demand for Portugal has increased in recent years, and processing times currently sit at up to six months for long-term options. Providing all information on your application is correct and relevant, it’s unlikely that it would be declined.

9. General Lifestyle – Winner Draw

Spain

Spanish culture is bright, vibrant and social. Strong regional cultures dominate throughout, with areas such as Catalonia even having their own language and independence groups. Spaniards value relationships and community, and are known for being friendly and welcoming. Finding a healthy work-life balance is really valued in Spain, with leisure and a personal life often being prioritised.

One of the biggest cultural differences Brits often find is the later mealtimes – it’s not uncommon for dinner service to begin at 10pm! Grabbing a big lunch during the traditional siesta (between 1-3pm) can help curb your hunger, and with most shops and restaurants closing for this break, there’s little else to do than eat and rest. Spain is known for its cultural pageantry of flamenco dancing and bull-fighting, but life is quieter and more slow-paced in smaller towns and villages. Many query is Spain safer than Portugal, but the reality is that both are fairly safe with low crime rates – but Portugal just edges it with less.

Portugal

The Portuguese culture is warm, welcoming and neighbourly; with a big focus on community. Expats are often a little startled by how friendly locals are to them – certainly compared to how many are in the UK. Families are central to Portuguese culture, with strong bonds between generations and many multi-generational families living together.

Communities tend to share support and celebrations, and often spend time together. In smaller towns and villages you’ll find people take a siesta between 3-7pm, as part of the Portuguest concept of ‘desfrutar’, which prioritises self-care and rest. Dinner is also enjoyed later in Portugal than in the UK, but at around 9pm. One cultural quirk of the Portuguese is not to call or message during mealtimes, as these are considered important bonding events and should not be disturbed.

10. Food and Drink – Winner Spain as there are more options

 

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Spain

Spanish cuisine is famous for tapas, paella, and a diverse culinary landscape with strong regional flavours. Over 1,000 restaurants across the country enjoy Michelin-star status, and alongside the local food specialities you’ll also be able to find a myriad of chain restaurants and cafes as you would in the UK.

Portugal

Portugal’s diet is best known for seafood (bacalhau), pastel de nata, and a strong tradition of simple, hearty meals. The cuisine is simple and delicious, with lots of locally-sourced seafood eaten including cod, lobster, crab, shrimp, octopus, scallops, clams, and barnacles. There are over 150 Michelin-starred restaurants across Portugal and the cuisine gets a little spicier the further south you go, mirroring its African neighbours.

11. Work-Life Balance – Winner Portugal, shorter business working hours as siesta not as common

Spain

The culture of Spain emphasises leisure and socialising, but working hours can be long in big cities and for overseas companies who don’t observe siesta breaks. Generally speaking, work-life balance is better in smaller towns and rural communities, but there’s less opportunity for social time there due to the nature of them. It’s very common for professionals in large organisations to have drinks after work with colleagues and managers.

Portugal

Family and leisure is really prioritised by the Portuguese, so the work-life balance in the country is often better than you’ll find in the UK. It’s not uncommon for workplaces to include a long break over siesta periods and most people who work away from home nip in to a local establishment for a wine or coffee after work as a social occasion.

12. Sport – Winner Spain

Spain

Spain’s football is world renowned, with La Liga being followed around the globe. Spaniards have a strong football culture and almost always support their local team. Cycling is also popular, with the Vuelta a España being one of the globe’s three major cycling stage races, and a number of Spanish cyclists ranking high at international level. Spain is also the home of famous tennis player Rafael Nadal, and its national team has won tennis’ Davis Cup five times. Furthermore, the country hosts Formula 1 world championships and MotoGP competitions; with Fernando Alonso and Marc Márquez leading the way for Spanish motorsports.

Portugal

Portuguese football isn’t viewed worldwide as much as Spain’s La Liga, but the Primeira Liga is high quality with Sport Lisboa e Benfica, Futebol Clube do Porto and Sporting Clube de Portugal being the biggest clubs. Competitive surfing is popular along the Atlantic coastline due to the ideal conditions, and swimming, handball, volleyball and basketball are also popular.

13. Healthcare System – Winner Spain for healthcare quality

Spain

The Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) is the highly rated national healthcare system of Spain, and offers free basic medical services universally to expats who pay social security contributions or are legal residents. Much like the NHS, the SNS is free at the point of entry but some prescriptions and additional services may incur a fee. You must register with the SNS at your local healthcare facility upon arrival in Spain. Expats can also choose to invest in private health insurance should they wish.

Portugal

All legal residents of Portugal are eligible for free public healthcare once registered with the country’s social security system (which can be done at the local ‘centro de saude’ upon arrival). Once registered, expats will receive a healthcare card with their ‘número de utente de saúde’ printed on; akin to an NHS number in the UK. This card must be presented to access services, but expats may have to pay fees for emergency services and ambulance support. For fast-track treatment, private options are available.

14. Cultural Differences – Winner Draw

Spain

Spain has a whole host of distinctive regional identities, each with their own culture and customs. Socialising is often centred around food, and the Spanish are very chatty and approachable, and known for using lots of hand gestures and keeping close eye contact when speaking. Spaniards value education and tend to discuss it often.

Tipping is not expected as such, but it’s considered polite to leave 10% at a restaurant for good services and a euro or so per passenger for taxi drivers. Spain is primarily Christian, with holidays including Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Corpus Christi, the Feast of Saint James and All Saints’ Day.

Portugal

Portugal enjoys a more homogenous culture than its neighbour, with strong ties to maritime history and a quieter, more reserved social style. Portuguese families are very involved with one another, and meals tend to be long in duration and animated in conversation style.

Traditional singing and dancing are second nature to the Portuguese, with each region having its own style of both. Portugal does celebrate an annual carnival with parades and parties, at which everyone tends to really let their hair down.

Are you looking to move to personal belongings to Spain or Portugal

So, is it better to buy a house in Spain or Portugal? If you’re seeking a vibrant, diverse cultural experience with lots of socialising and a good mix of both urban and beach life, Spain is likely for you. However, those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle with lower cost of living, a milder climate and lots of outdoor green space are likely to be better suited to Portugal.

Be sure to research into all of your options to ensure you’re making an informed decision before any plans are made. You may even use your impending move as a good excuse to visit a few times for holidays first!

If you’re ready to make the move to Europe, we’re here to help. Our professional shipping services to Spain and Portugal ensure your transition is seamless, so you can focus on settling into your new home and embracing the adventure ahead.