Setubal, Portugal

Setubal sits on the Sado River estuary, just 12 kilometers from Lisbon's airport, yet it feels a world apart. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, and the city's elevation of just 13 meters above sea level keeps things gentle. While the data doesn't name specific expat neighborhoods, the city center is where most newcomers gravitate, drawn by the compact, walkable streets and the easy access to the waterfront. Outside the center, rents drop noticeably, making the outskirts a practical choice for those who don't mind a short commute.

Living here is remarkably affordable, especially when you stack it against local wages. A one-bedroom in the city center runs about $987 per month, while the same place outside the center costs $821. A three-bedroom in the center is $1,612, and outside the center it drops to $1,165. For a single adult, the budget tier total, rent included, comes to $839 per month, the mid-range tier to $1,321, and the comfortable tier to $1,625. Excluding rent, a single person's monthly costs average $650, with utilities at $100, internet at $33, a mobile plan at $21, a public transport pass at $45, and a gym membership at $31. Eating out is cheap: an inexpensive restaurant meal is $12, a three-course meal for two at a mid-range spot is $48, and a cappuccino is $2. The average monthly net salary is $1,274, which means even the budget tier is within reach for many locals, though the comfortable tier would stretch most paychecks.

Safety is a strong point here. The crime index sits at 18 out of 100, which is low, and the safety index is 80 out of 100, so you can walk the streets at night without much worry. Healthcare quality is rated as good, and the air quality index is 35, which is considered clean. English is common in tourist areas, so you'll get by in restaurants and shops, though learning some Portuguese will open more doors, especially with healthcare providers.

For those looking to stay long-term, Portugal offers two clear visa paths. The D7 Passive Income Visa requires a minimum monthly income of $1,031, which is well below the local average salary and makes it a favorite for retirees and remote workers with modest pensions. The Digital Nomad Visa (D8) is more demanding, with a minimum monthly income of $3,900, so it's geared toward higher earners. Getting here is easy: the nearest airport is LIS, just 12 kilometers away. Setubal suits budget-conscious expats, retirees on a fixed income, and digital nomads who can meet the D8 threshold. With an overall expat score of 82, a FIRE score of 82, a retiree score of 74, and a digital nomad score of 77, it's a solid choice for those who want a slower pace, lower costs, and a safe, healthy base in Portugal.