Latest news and stories about purchasing power in Portugal for expats and residents.
In 2023, Portugal ranks among the EU countries with the lowest purchasing power, with its average annual income allowing for the purchase of only 11 baskets of essential goods, significantly less than the 24 baskets that can be afforded by an average Luxembourger. This disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by Portuguese residents, particularly in the context of rising housing costs.
Portugal has experienced significant increases in house prices since 2020, according to data from Pordata. Despite this rise, the country still ranks among those with the lowest purchasing power, with only Greece having higher housing costs relative to income.
Average remuneration increased by 11.1% in real terms between 2019 and 2025. However, it may fall in 2026, warn economists consulted by Expresso.
Portuguese families are struggling with rising inflation and fuel costs, forcing them to reduce consumption and change their shopping habits. From the municipal markets to restaurants, the impact of price increases on food and transport is leading to a significant decline in purchasing power, with many people cutting back on essentials and dining out.
Home News Portugal has the lowest purchasing power Portugal has the lowest purchasing power Portugal is the second country in the European Union where house prices have risen the most since 2020, and is among the member states with the lowest purchasing power, according to data from Pordata.
Driven by sectors experiencing labour shortages, such as agriculture, tourism, and construction, the average salary increase in 2025 has once again outpaced inflation in Portugal.
Compared to other regions, all except Alentejo (which remained at 77.1%) converged with the EU; the Algarve reached 89.2%, Madeira 88.3%, the Azores 72.5%, the Centre 70.7%, and the North 70.8%.
Purchasing power in Portugal increased to 82.4% of the European average in 2024.
Purchasing power in Portugal increased to 82.4% of the European average in 2024, 1.3 percentage points higher than in 2023, keeping the country in 15th place among the 20 Eurozone countries and 18th in the European Union. According to data released this Wednesday by the National Institute of Statistics (INE), between 2023 and 2024...
In 2024, Portugal's purchasing power is expected to reach 82.4% of the average across Europe, indicating an improvement in the economic situation for Portuguese citizens.
Purchasing power in Portugal has increased to 82.4% of the European average in 2024, 1.3 percentage points higher than in 2023, keeping the country in 15th place among the 20 Eurozone countries and 18th in the European Union.
There is a vast and, for many, painful difference between saving money and creating wealth. In Portugal, the dominant financial culture remains tied to the former concept. We are a country of conservative savers, comfortable with the illusion of nominal security, while we almost proudly ignore the real and ongoing destruction of our purchasing power. The mathematics ...
