Housing prices surge nearly 20% in one year

Friday, 17 July 2026AI summary
Housing prices surge nearly 20% in one year
Photo: RTP Notícias

Data from the National Statistics Institute (Instituto Nacional de Estatística or INE) shows that the median house price in Portugal reached 2,337 euros per square meter in the first quarter of 2026. This represents an increase of nearly 20 percent compared to the same period last year. Market analysts note that foreign investment continues to drive prices upward, particularly in the Lisbon region.

Context & Explainers

The INE housing price index (Índice de Preços da Habitação) tracks changes in residential property transaction prices across Portugal, published quarterly by the National Statistics Institute (INE). It covers both new and existing dwellings and breaks data down by region, property type, and buyer nationality.

The index is a key reference for policymakers debating housing affordability measures, for lenders assessing mortgage risk, and for buyers and investors tracking market trends. It has shown sustained price growth since 2015, with particularly sharp increases in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve driven by international demand, tourism, and housing shortages.

Related INE publications include monthly housing transaction data, rental indices, and construction statistics. Together, they provide the most comprehensive picture of Portugal's property market.

Portugal’s house prices have risen faster than the EU average since 2020, and recent reports list Portugal among the countries with the largest price increases over that period. That stronger price growth has worsened affordability in Lisbon and Porto in particular, so prospective buyers and renters should check local indices and mortgage costs before deciding.