The cost of living in Lisbon has been rising recently, putting particular pressure on housing budgets. Outside the major urban centers, however, there are some municipalities where real estate prices and certain daily expenses may be lower.
Lousã, in the district of Coimbra, is located about 210 kilometers from the capital, a drive that can take about 2 hours and 20 minutes, depending on the route and traffic conditions. The town is one of those that the international magazine International Living highlights as an alternative to large coastal urban centers.
The Portuguese town was included in an article titled “21 Small Towns Where You Can Live Better—Often for Less Than $2,000 a Month” (an amount equivalent to about 1,715 euros, depending on the exchange rate). This is an editorial selection based on contributions from the publication’s correspondents, rather than a comparative statistical study of the cost of living. The list also includes towns in France, Greece, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Panama.
What are people saying about Lousã?
According to International Living, Lousã is about 35 minutes from Coimbra and combines historic charm with access to mountain trails and the neighboring schist villages. From the town, you can hike up to Lousã Castle, an 11th-century medieval fortress that once protected the region during the Christian Reconquista. In the municipality of Lousã, there are also five schist villages, among which Talasnal is one of the best known.
Housing estimates
The publication also highlights the local real estate market, estimating that traditional two- or three-bedroom apartments or houses—move-in ready and close to the center — can cost between $100,000 and $250,000—about 85,700 to 214,300 euros (depending on the exchange rate). To rent a similar property, it estimates a monthly rent of $700 to $1,000, approximately 600 to 857 euros.
Outside the center of Lousã, International Living mentions homes starting at $100,000—about 85,600 euros— and rural renovation projects priced below that amount. For those who already own a home and a car, the magazine estimates a monthly budget of $2,000—approximately 1,715 euros—covering the cost of local products, traditional dining, and outdoor activities.
Portugal has three towns on the list
Portugal has three towns on the list: Lousã, Amarante, and Castelo Branco. Regarding Castelo Branco, the publication highlights its status as a district seat, the presence of a public hospital and private clinics, as well as rents for one-bedroom apartments starting at $550 per month (about 471 euros), among other aspects.
Editor’s Note: The conversions presented here were estimated using the EUR/USD reference rate as of August 24, 2026, when 1 euro was equivalent to 1.1664 dollars. Therefore, these figures should be considered indicative and may vary depending on the exchange rate.
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