What are the pros and cons of living in Madeira, Portugal? Madeira, a Portuguese Autonomous Region, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, mild weather, and rich cultural and historic wealth (with tourism dating back to the 19th century). Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, some 600 km off the Moroccan coast (or 900 km off the Portuguese coast), this archipelago has become a hotspot among pensioners and high-mobility expats. However, like any location, living in Madeira has advantages and disadvantages, which one should consider beforehand.
Pros and Cons of Living in Madeira, Portugal
Pros of Living in Madeira
1. Pleasant Climate
Among the most appealing features of Madeira is its mild subtropical climate. The archipelago is known for its warm summers and mild winters, with mean daytime temperatures varying between 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F).
2. Stunning Natural Beauty
Madeira’s natural landscapes vary from lush UNESCO forests punctuated by dramatic cliffs to picturesque coastlines – not to mention the 9km sandy beach in Porto Santo Island. All this richly diverse paradise is accessible within a car-drive (or ferry trip) distance for those opting to relocate.
3. Affordable Cost of Living
Like most Western European regions, Madeira enjoys a comparatively low cost of living. Due to this reality, expatriate costs such as housing, food, and dining out are lower than those of the Portuguese coastal mainland. Therefore, Madeira and Porto Santo Islands have become attractive to people who wish to live well without paying higher living costs in European or American cities.
4. High Quality of Life
The Autonomous Region boasts excellent quality-of-life standards and low cost of living. Safety, relaxation, different sports, and cultural activities are all part of island life. The relaxed lifestyle promotes healthy living, and the efficient public transport system makes it easy to get around. To make things even better, Madeira’s low crime rate also makes it a safe place for residents and visitors.
5. Thriving Digital Nomad Community
Madeira has also become increasingly popular with digital nomads with initiatives like the Digital Nomad Village in Ponta do Sol. The government-sponsored initiative offers free co-working space, high-speed internet, and networking events to connect remote workers with the community.
6. Rich Cultural Heritage
Madeira’s rich and historical cultural heritage is celebrated in various ways, from traditional dances to church festivals and cuisine, with the famous Christmasy sugar cane molasses cake and poncha, the local drink, standing out as examples. Local crafts are also worth noting, with delicate embroidery and ceramics manifestations of Madeiran identity.
7. Tax Advantages
Madeira offers unique tax advantages for those who incorporate a company on the island. The Madeira International Business Centre provides a reduced corporate tax rate of 5% for companies that meet specific requirements, making it an attractive option for business owners and investors.
Cons of Living in Madeira
1. Island Isolation
Living on an island offers limited connectivity to the mainland and, thus, solitude. Madeira is primarily served by air for arriving and departing, which may be cumbersome or expensive to some individuals, especially those who do not like flying or do not want to book plane tickets in advance.
2. Limited Job Opportunities
While the digital nomad community on Madeira is growing, job opportunities for expats may be limited, especially for those who do not speak Portuguese or work in industries outside of tourism and remote work. The island’s small size and population may make finding a job or advancing in a particular career challenging.
3. Language Barrier
Although English is generally spoken on Madeira Island, non-Portuguese speakers can still face language issues in some instances or when dealing with official procedures. Others may also find the island culture and pace of life too slow or silent for their preferences.
4. Limited Access to Mainland Portugal
Conclusion
So what are the pros and cons of living in Madeira, Portugal? Living in Madeira offers a unique blend of advantages and challenges that can significantly affect one’s lifestyle. The island’s stunning landscapes, pleasant climate, and rich cultural heritage make it an attractive destination for those seeking a more relaxed way of life, especially retirees and digital nomads. However, potential residents should carefully consider the isolation, limited job opportunities, and language barriers that may come with life on an island. Ultimately, Madeira presents a rewarding environment for those willing to embrace its distinctive qualities and adapt to its unique living conditions. By weighing both the pros and cons, individuals can make informed decisions about whether this picturesque archipelago fits their personal and professional aspirations.
The founding of Madeira Corporate Services dates back to 1996. MCS started as a corporate service provider in the Madeira International Business Center and rapidly became a leading management company… Read more
