Portugal: The New Blue Zone on the Rise for UK Retirees
Portugal: The New Blue Zone on the Rise for UK Retirees
21 06 2024
Article by Gold Crest - Official Buyers Agent to KipperTree.
Here at Goldcrest, we’re witnessing an exciting trend: Portugal is rapidly becoming a top
choice for UK retirees, and we believe the country is poised to become a new Blue
Zone for healthy aging. Over the past year, we’ve seen a 20% increase in interest in
retirement properties, as more retirees seek a better quality of life in this beautiful
country.
Why Portugal Stands Out
Portugal has many of the qualities found in Blue Zones—regions with high
concentrations of people who live to be over 100 years old. The Mediterranean climate,
community-centric culture, fresh cuisine, and a slower pace of living all contribute to its
appeal. In fact, the number of centenarians in Portugal has grown by 77% over the past
decade.
A Popular Choice for UK Retirees
It’s not just the locals who are benefiting. The foreign senior population in Portugal has
more than doubled in the last decade, with British expats making up 19% of this group.
At Goldcrest, we’ve observed a significant surge in inquiries from British retirees. Many
of them are looking for properties that offer amenities and a strong connection with local
culture, while still providing peace and tranquility.
Top Developments
Several developments in Portugal are catering specifically to retirees. Life Plan Resorts,
located in the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve near Lisbon, is inspired by Blue Zone
principles. It offers comprehensive healthcare, community integration, and luxury
amenities designed to promote an active and engaged lifestyle.
Another prime example is Ombria Algarve, situated near Faro’s international airport.
This development is popular among retirees for its luxury services and convenient
location, which allows for easy travel to and from the UK.
For UK retirees, the benefits of moving to Portugal are clear. The widespread use of
English, short travel times, and the potential for obtaining an EU passport make the
transition smooth. Additionally, Portugal’s stunning coastlines, warm climate, and lower
cost of living compared to the UK are major draws.
Portugal is home to over 40,000 UK nationals, with many choosing to live in Lisbon,
Porto, or the Algarve. The country’s healthcare system is ranked among the best in the
world, and its low crime rate, political stability, and welcoming attitude towards expats
make it an ideal retirement destination.
The increase in UK retirees moving to Portugal can also be linked to Brexit. Since 2016,
the number of British nationals living here has significantly increased. The favorable
weather, attractive tax regimes, low cost of living, and incentives for investment and
retirement make Portugal an appealing choice for those seeking a better quality of life.
At Goldcrest, we’re proud to help retirees find their perfect home in this emerging Blue Zone.
