Overlooking Belém, in Lisbon, the Segundo Torrão, in Trafaria, came into existence 40 years ago. What started as a fishing community that grew over time, is now the largest slum in size in Lisbon, where there are people living in shocking conditions.
Western Europe is one of the wealthiest regions in the world – and it is hard to find slums there. But in Portugal, the poverty-stricken area of Cova da Moura, which sits on the edge of Lisbon, the country's capital, people live destitute lives. Since the 1970s, the area has become home to some 6,000 people.
Favelas are often associated with Brazil - the dangerous slums that perch high on the hills around Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paolo. But Portugal has its own answer to the favelas of Brazil - Cova da Moura - a drug-trafficker's haven that has become a magnet for tourists.
Portugal also still remains a country dealing with poverty, with over 9% of the population living in such conditions. Salaries remain comparably low to the cost of living. While many argue Portugal is relatively affordable, this is not the case for those receiving a Portuguese wage.
If this is calculated per inhabitant, taking purchasing power parity into account, then Portugal ranks 43rd in the list of the richest countries. Inflation in Portugal in 2022 was around 7.83%. Within the EU, the average in the same year was 9.22 percent. In the United States, it was most recently 8.00%.
Spain is, according to the most recent FMI estimates, the 15th largest world economy (in PPP terms), with Portugal 55th. In terms of per capita GDP (PPP) the gap is smaller, with Spain ranking 32nd and its neighbour 43rd.
The cost of food is lower in Portugal because the average wage is lower than in places like the US. The typical worker in Portugal makes about €925 per month (based on 2019 figures). That works out to a little over $12,000/year.
According to a national survey conducted in 2020, there were 8,209 homeless people in Portugal. Most of these lived in Lisbon, where 4,786 homeless people were accounted for, representing 58.3 percent of the total, followed by the metropolitan area of Porto (AMP) with 1,213 people.
Low wages in Portugal
A major downside to living in Portugal is finding a well-paying job. Whether you are making minimum wage or the average salary, do not expect to make a lot of money. In 2022, the national minimum salary in Portugal is €705 a month before tax.
The Portuguese population has declined in the last decade as a result of negative natural and migration balances. Recently, however, the improvement in the migration balance has mitigated the decline in the resident population.
Areas to Avoid in Lisbon
There aren't any no-go areas in Lisbon, but the neighborhoods around Intendente, Martim Moniz and Anjos are best avoided at night.
The people who live in favelas are known as favelados ("inhabitants of favela"). Favelas are associated with poverty. Brazil's favelas are thought to be the result of the unequal distribution of wealth in the country.
The security situation in many favelas is unpredictable, particularly in Rio de Janeiro. Any visit to a favela can be dangerous. You're advised to avoid these areas in all cities, including 'favela tours' marketed to tourists and any accommodation, restaurants or bars advertised as being within a favela.
Lisbon, Braga, Porto, Funchal on Madeira Island, Portimão, Aveiro, and Coimbra are regarded as some of the safest communities to reside within Portugal. With that said, residents are encouraged to remain cautious of pickpockets – especially in touristy areas.
Lisbon is a beautiful city with happy friendly people, especially the locals! Certainly not for the native Portuguese.
Lisbon, Portugal's capital city is a cosmopolitan centre that's bursting with life. The city offers a contrasting combination. Medieval facades, interesting Art-Nouveau buildings, typical black and white mosaic sidewalks give the city it's name of the White City.
The Portugal Residence Visa Permanent Residency is available to residents of Australia. Portugal Golden Visa residency from Australia through buying Real Estate, OR thru a Capital transfer and OR through job creation. This is your chance for Immigration to Portugal.
Portugal is home to over half a million foreigners from around the world. Retirement in Portugal can be an affordable adventure, safe from gun violence, with low cost, excellent healthcare, year-round mild weather, and plenty of friends just waiting to meet you.
However, what is certain is that Japan is the only country in the world with a homeless population rate of around 0%.
Portugal's homeless receive healthcare from street teams.
These street teams, which mostly consist of hired or medical volunteers, receive funding from public and private resources. Their priority is to reduce harm in substance abuse amongst the homeless.
Europe. Germany has the highest number of homeless people in Europe, with approximately 650,000 people per night. It is estimated that there are 37 homeless people per 10,000 citizens- meaning that Germany's homelessness problem equates to around 0.37% of the population.
Relocating to Portugal is possible under a government investment program with a minimal financial option of €250,000. The cosmopolitans move to Portugal for various reasons: its warm climate, security and business opportunities. Let us analyze the main advantages of living in Portugal. Warm climate.
The country offers attractive tax incentives, a favourable climate, and a thriving cultural scene. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have become magnets for millionaires and entrepreneurs looking to establish residency or invest in property.
The average monthly salary in Portugal is low, however, the affordable cost of living makes up for the low income. The average monthly salary after the taxes comes to around €850. Many locals in Portugal get by with less than €750 a month. The cost of living for a couple in smaller cities in Portugal is around €1700.