Housing unaffordable for most as government reallocates EU funds

Wednesday, 25 March 2026AI summary
Housing unaffordable for most as government reallocates EU funds
Photo: ECO

A new study from the Bank of Portugal (Banco de Portugal) shows that median-income families now face a housing effort rate (taxa de esforço) of 48%, well above the recommended 40% limit. In response to housing and competitiveness challenges, the government is reallocating 2.5 billion euros from the Portugal 2030 (Portugal 2030) EU funding framework. Those seeking housing should note that mortgage payments in some municipalities have nearly doubled over the last four years.

Update: Bank of Portugal reports 140% house price rise since 2016

The Bank of Portugal reports that housing prices have surged by 140% between 2016 and 2025, with bank valuations reaching a new record of 2,122 euros per square meter in February. In response to the crisis, the Lisbon City Council (Câmara Municipal de Lisboa) has approved a 128 million euro investment to renovate housing and public infrastructure through municipal agencies. Lisbon residents should note that this funding targets both affordable rentals and local schools.

Context & Explainers

The housing effort rate measures the share of household income spent on housing (rent or mortgage). In Q4 2025 an idealista analysis put the renting effort rate at about 80%, meaning many households must spend most of their income on housing; when the rate exceeds common affordability benchmarks (around 30%) it signals serious financial pressure for residents and those looking to move to Portugal.

Portugal 2030 is a development program that manages €22.6 billion in European Union funds to improve the country's economy and infrastructure. These funds support projects ranging from digital innovation to climate transition and social equality. Residents often see the impact of this funding through local public works and business development grants.

The Câmara de Lisboa (Lisbon City Council) is Lisbon's municipal executive body responsible for city services, local regulations and enforcing municipal bylaws. It approves measures like the alcohol sales ban that started on February 14, so residents and business owners should consult the Câmara or its website for permits, enforcement rules and appeals.