Porto has become one of Portugal’s most desirable cities, but rising property prices can make buying a home in the city center challenging.
Many buyers are now looking slightly outside the city for more affordable options that still offer access to Porto’s vibrant culture and job opportunities. Porto has gained global recognition, ranking 10th among the best cities in the world according to Time Out.
It was also celebrated in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler, highlighting its culture, charm, and vibrant lifestyle.
Living outside Porto allows homeowners to find more space at lower prices. These areas often provide larger apartments or houses with gardens, which can be hard to afford in central Porto. Families and professionals alike are increasingly exploring nearby cities to maximize value without sacrificing convenience.
Affordable cities around Porto also offer quieter, more relaxed lifestyles. Compared to the busy streets of Porto, towns like Vila do Conde or Valongo provide a calmer environment, suitable for families, retirees, or anyone seeking a peaceful neighborhood with essential amenities close by.
Commuting from these towns is generally straightforward. Good public transport options, including trains and buses, make Porto easily accessible for work or leisure. Roads are well-maintained, allowing car owners to travel to the city quickly, making suburban living convenient for daily commuters.
This article highlights the most affordable cities near Porto, comparing property prices, distances, lifestyle options, and amenities. By reading further, buyers can identify the towns that suit their budget, family needs, and lifestyle preferences while still enjoying the benefits of Porto’s region.
Vila do Conde – Coastal Charm Within Reach
Vila do Conde is a charming coastal town located about 28 km from Porto. With an average property price of €2,850 per square meter, it is 29% cheaper than Porto, making it one of the more affordable options for those who want seaside living close to the city.
The town offers a variety of housing options, from modern apartments to traditional Portuguese homes. Buyers can find properties with more space and better amenities than in Porto for the same budget, making it especially appealing to families or couples seeking long-term value.
Vila do Conde is known for its scenic riverside and beaches. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities such as walking along the coast, visiting local markets, and exploring historical monuments.
The town balances natural beauty with modern conveniences for daily life. Porto is attracting global attention in real estate, ranking 10th among the world’s fastest-growing luxury property markets, according to Knight Frank’s 2023 Wealth Report.
Transport connections to Porto are reliable. Regular trains and buses ensure a smooth commute, while roads provide easy car access. This makes Vila do Conde suitable for professionals who need to travel to Porto frequently while enjoying a quieter lifestyle.
Families, retirees, and young professionals alike are drawn to Vila do Conde for its coastal charm, affordability, and proximity to Porto. The town provides a safe, comfortable environment with schools, healthcare, and shopping options, making it a well-rounded choice for long-term living.
Valongo – Affordable Suburban Living
Valongo is located just 16 km from Porto, making it a convenient choice for commuters. Average property prices are around €1,913 per square meter, which is 52% cheaper than Porto, offering significant savings for buyers on a budget.
The town features modern apartments and family homes, often larger than similar properties in Porto. Buyers can find more space at a fraction of the city cost, making Valongo appealing to first-time homeowners and families who need room to grow.
Valongo is well-equipped with schools, healthcare facilities, and local services. Families benefit from accessible amenities, while young professionals enjoy easy transport links to Porto, making daily commutes simple and practical without sacrificing comfort.
Life in Valongo is quiet and community-oriented. Parks, local shops, and cultural events create a friendly atmosphere. Residents experience a slower pace compared to busy Porto streets while still having everything they need within reach.
For budget-conscious buyers, Valongo provides excellent value without compromising on lifestyle. Its proximity to Porto, affordability, and family-friendly amenities make it a smart choice for those who want the benefits of city access without high city prices.
Matosinhos – Close to Porto with Urban Convenience
Matosinhos is located only 8 km from Porto, making it an ideal option for those who need quick access to the city. Property prices average €3,216 per square meter, which is about 19% cheaper than Porto, offering both convenience and savings for buyers seeking urban living with a coastal touch.
The town is known for its excellent seafood, cultural scene, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Modern apartments and townhouses are available for buyers who want a high quality of life close to Porto’s business and social hubs.
Matosinhos provides all necessary amenities including schools, healthcare centers, shopping, and public transport. Its close proximity to Porto allows residents to enjoy city life while living in a quieter, well-planned environment.
Outdoor enthusiasts benefit from Matosinhos’ long beaches and coastal promenades, which offer opportunities for walking, cycling, and relaxation. Its combination of urban and seaside living appeals to professionals and families alike.
For anyone looking for a balance between city access, lifestyle, and price, Matosinhos offers a compelling solution. Its location, amenities, and slightly lower property costs make it one of the most practical affordable cities Porto buyers consider.
Póvoa do Varzim – Relaxed Beachside Life
Póvoa do Varzim is a coastal town located about 35 km from Porto, offering a relaxed seaside lifestyle. With average property prices around €2,600 per square meter, it is approximately 35% cheaper than Porto, making it an attractive option for buyers who want to live near the ocean without paying city prices.
The town offers a mix of modern apartments and traditional homes, providing a variety of options for families, retirees, or young professionals. Larger homes at lower costs are possible here, giving more value compared to Porto’s limited housing space.
Life in Póvoa do Varzim revolves around its beaches, local markets, and cultural spots. Residents enjoy a combination of outdoor activities, seafood restaurants, and annual festivals, making it a lively yet relaxed environment for long-term living.
Commuting to Porto is straightforward via regular train and bus services, with well-maintained roads supporting car travel. Professionals who need to work in the city can enjoy daily commuting without sacrificing the calm lifestyle of a coastal town.
For families and retirees, Póvoa do Varzim combines affordability, coastal charm, and local amenities such as schools, healthcare, and shopping. Its balance of convenience, price, and quality of life makes it one of the top affordable cities Porto buyers consider.
Braga – Historical City with Affordable Housing
Braga is located about 54 km from Porto, offering a mix of historical charm and modern convenience. Property prices average €2,258 per square meter, making it 43% cheaper than Porto. It is an ideal option for buyers looking for affordable living with a vibrant cultural environment.
The city has a rich heritage, including churches, museums, and historic architecture, which attract families and culture enthusiasts. Braga also features a growing economy and a variety of housing options suitable for different budgets.
Commuting to Porto is manageable via train or car, although longer than some suburbs. Residents who work in Porto or study in the city benefit from Braga’s good transport links while enjoying a quieter, less crowded environment.
Braga is also family-friendly, with excellent schools, parks, and healthcare facilities. Daily life is convenient and safe, allowing residents to enjoy modern services while living in a more affordable area compared to Porto.
For buyers seeking long-term value, Braga offers historical charm, good amenities, and significantly lower property costs. Its combination of affordability and lifestyle makes it one of the top affordable cities Porto buyers consider.
Maia – Suburban Life Near Porto
Maia is located just 9 km from Porto, offering a perfect balance of city access and suburban calm. Average property prices are around €2,700 per square meter, which is about 32% cheaper than Porto, making it a practical choice for buyers looking for convenience without high city prices.
The town features modern residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and healthcare facilities. Families and professionals benefit from a well-planned environment that combines comfort, safety, and accessibility.
Mornings and evenings are convenient for commuters, as Maia is connected to Porto by road and public transport. This makes it easy for residents to work in the city while enjoying suburban living with more space.
Lifestyle in Maia is relaxed yet dynamic. Shopping centers, cafes, local markets, and recreational areas create a complete living experience. Residents can enjoy a quieter pace of life without losing access to Porto’s social and cultural offerings.
For those seeking affordable homes near Porto, Maia offers a compelling mix of proximity, modern amenities, and lower property costs. It is suitable for families, young professionals, and anyone who wants to balance affordability with convenience, making it one of the top affordable cities Porto buyers consider.
Guimarães – Cultural Hub with Value for Money
Guimarães is located about 55 km from Porto, making it slightly farther but still within commuting distance. Property prices average around €2,500 per square meter, which is approximately 37% cheaper than Porto, offering excellent value for buyers seeking affordability combined with history and culture.
The city is often called the “birthplace of Portugal” due to its rich heritage, including medieval architecture and historical landmarks. Residents enjoy a culturally vibrant environment, with museums, festivals, and local markets enhancing everyday life.
Housing options in Guimarães range from modern apartments to traditional homes. Families and professionals can find larger properties here than in Porto for the same budget, allowing for more comfort and flexibility.
Transport connections to Porto include trains and buses, making commuting feasible for daily workers. Although farther from the city than some suburbs, the benefits of affordable housing and a relaxed environment often outweigh the commute.
For buyers who value history, culture, and affordability, Guimarães is a smart choice. The town combines traditional charm with modern amenities such as schools, healthcare, and shopping, making it a practical and attractive affordable city Porto buyers consider.
How to Choose the Right City Near Porto
When looking for affordable cities near Porto, price is only one factor. Commuting distance, lifestyle, amenities, and long-term investment potential all play important roles. Buyers should consider how often they will travel to Porto and whether they need easy access to schools, healthcare, and shopping.
Cultural and lifestyle factors can also guide your choice. For example, Porto itself will host the Michelin Guide Gala in 2025, highlighting the city’s growing prominence in gastronomy. Towns nearby benefit from this vibrancy while offering quieter living, giving residents access to cultural events without paying city prices.
Investment potential is another key consideration. The Portugal News recently reported that many property owners in Porto are converting commercial properties into residential units to increase rental returns. Choosing a city with similar development opportunities can provide both affordability and future financial growth.
Lifestyle preferences should guide the decision as well. Coastal towns like Póvoa do Varzim and Vila do Conde appeal to those who enjoy beach access, while inland suburbs like Valongo or Maia offer quiet, family-friendly environments. Consider your daily needs, leisure activities, and long-term plans when selecting a city.
Ultimately, the right city balances cost, convenience, and quality of life. Buyers who evaluate commuting, lifestyle, amenities, and investment opportunities can confidently select the town that best fits their needs while staying within budget.
House Prices Near Porto
Rental Prices Near Porto
Renting near Porto can be significantly cheaper than living in the city itself. Braga, Valongo, and Vila do Conde offer the best value with average rents around 33–34% lower than Porto.
Guimarães and Póvoa de Varzim also provide strong savings at 30–31% less, while Maia is 18% cheaper and just 9 km away. For those seeking proximity, Matosinhos offers convenience only 8 km from Porto, though with a smaller 12% price difference due to high demand.
Buying Prices Near Porto
Looking to buy property near Porto? Nearby cities offer attractive opportunities at lower prices per m². Valongo is the most affordable, with prices 52% lower than Porto, while Braga and Guimarães also provide great value at 43–37% less.
Coastal towns like Vila do Conde and Póvoa de Varzim combine seaside living with prices up to 35% lower. Maia offers good savings just 9 km from the city, and Matosinhos remains in high demand with only a 19% difference thanks to its prime location near Porto.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Most Affordable Cities To Live Near Porto
Which cities near Porto are most affordable to buy property?
Vila do Conde, Valongo, Póvoa do Varzim, Matosinhos, Braga, Guimarães, and Maia all offer significantly lower prices compared to Porto, making them ideal for budget-conscious buyers.
How far are these cities from Porto?
Distances range from just 8 km (Matosinhos) to about 55 km (Guimarães and Braga), offering options for both short and longer commutes.
Are these cities suitable for families?
Yes, most of these areas have good schools, healthcare facilities, parks, and community amenities suitable for families with children.
Which towns are best for commuters to Porto?
Matosinhos, Maia, and Valongo are ideal for daily commuting due to their close proximity and excellent transport links to the city.
Do these areas offer good investment potential?
Yes, several towns are seeing growing demand, and property owners in nearby Porto are even converting commercial spaces into residential units to increase rental returns.
Are coastal towns like Vila do Conde and Póvoa do Varzim worth considering?
Absolutely. They combine affordability with a relaxed beachside lifestyle while still allowing easy access to Porto.
What types of properties are available in these cities?
Buyers can find a mix of modern apartments, townhouses, and traditional Portuguese homes, often at larger sizes than comparable properties in Porto.
Is it easy to access cultural and recreational activities from these towns?
Yes, residents benefit from proximity to Porto’s cultural scene, including events like the Michelin Guide Gala in 2025, while also enjoying local parks, beaches, and historic sites.
How can i move to Porto?
If you’re planning to move to Porto, the first step is to check if you need a visa. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can relocate freely and simply register their residence after three months, while non-EU citizens (like from the USA, UK, or Canada) need a visa such as the D7 (passive income), Work Visa, Golden Visa, or Student Visa.