Portugal's property market reached new heights in 2024, with American buyers emerging as the dominant force among international purchasers. With Portugal selling 156,325 total properties in 2024, foreign buyers accounted for 18,759 transactions, 12% of the entire market. Americans now represent between 48-58% of all foreign purchases, translating to approximately 9,000-10,000 property sales to American buyers in 2024 alone.
Cristina Pereira, owner of Residential Advisory Portugal, has witnessed this transformation firsthand. Her team helps high-net-worth individuals with property acquisition and residency services, positioning her at the center of this market shift.
“The numbers speak for themselves, but what's really striking is the change in client profile over the past few years,” Cristina explains. “Five years ago, Americans made up maybe 20% of our international clients. Today, they represent over 70% of our business. These aren't holiday home buyers making impulse purchases. Our American clients are making permanent life changes, purchasing primary residences, relocating entire families, and establishing European bases for their businesses. The conversations I have now are completely different from what they were even two years ago.”
The 2025 data reveals that American interest is accelerating rather than plateauing. In the first quarter of 2025, Americans represented 58% of international buyers, up from 48% in 2024, a 21% increase in just three months. This surge coincides with Portugal's property market experiencing unprecedented growth, with prices rising 15.8% annually and recording a 6.6% quarterly increase in Q1 2025, the highest since 2007.
The surge reflects broader investment patterns, with American buyers particularly drawn to Portugal's luxury property segments. Geographic preferences among American buyers show clear patterns. The Lisbon metropolitan area, particularly the Cascais region, attracts the highest concentration of American investment, while Porto has also seen significant growth among younger American families and tech professionals.
“Cascais has become the go-to destination for our American clients,” Cristina notes. “It offers the lifestyle many are seeking, coastal living with proximity to a major city, excellent infrastructure, and an established international community. We're seeing average property values of €1.5 to €3 million in these preferred areas. But what's interesting is how informed these buyers are when they contact us. This isn't emotional buying, it's strategic planning based on thorough research. They understand Portugal's residency options, they know about the D7 visa pathway and the Golden Visa program. But our legal team clarifies that there are plenty of residency solutions available. With the right guidance, Americans can establish legal residence here.”
The demographic profile reveals specific characteristics among American buyers. Many originate from California's technology sector, though Cristina reports growing interest from other industries and regions. Educational opportunities for children and healthcare quality consistently rank among top decision factors.
Market analysts expect continued growth in American property investment throughout 2025 and beyond. Portugal's economic stability, quality of life indicators, and favorable tax structures continue attracting American capital. The country's GDP is projected to grow by 1.8% in 2025, creating a stable environment for real estate investments.
“Looking ahead, I'm already booking consultations through the summer, and the inquiries keep coming,” Cristina confirms. “What Portugal delivers is exactly what many Americans are seeking right now: safety, stability, and lifestyle quality at reasonable cost compared to similar markets. The 10,000 property sales figure we're seeing reflects genuine confidence in Portugal's long-term prospects. These buyers aren't looking for quick returns; they're looking for a place to build their lives. And based on the 2025 trends, we're only seeing the beginning of this movement.”
The Portuguese government has welcomed this investment influx while monitoring market impacts on local housing availability. American buyers predominantly target luxury segments, creating less direct competition with domestic purchasers in lower price ranges.
For American investors, Portugal offers European Union access, established legal frameworks, and growing English-speaking communities, factors that, combined with competitive property values and accelerating market momentum, continue driving sustained interest in the Portuguese market.
Contact Cristina Pereira
Call: (+351) 912395098
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By Hagan from Algarve on 04 Jul 2025, 21:30
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By Greg from Other on 06 Jul 2025, 07:05
We left the United States almost five years ago. Best decision we ever made. Lived in Sao Miguel Azores for two years and although beautiful the weather wasn't for us. So, we now call the Silver Coast of Portugal our home. The Algarve, Alentejo and many other southern areas in Portugal were just way to hot in the summer for us as it feels like Dubai HEAT! We found a darling town called Ansião with everything you could ever need and much more! Ansião is only 45 to 50 minutes from many, many beautiful beaches without all the tourist! Overall we found our slice of paradise and couldn't be happier! The United States is imploding on every level and we are very grateful to not be a part of the ongoing DRAMA there.
By Sonja from Other on 07 Jul 2025, 13:23