The Azores, a charming archipelago located in the middle of the Atlantic, has long won the hearts of those looking for a peaceful life in contact with nature.
With stunning landscapes, a mild climate and a unique quality of life, the Azores islands are becoming an increasingly attractive option for those who want to move to a unique and welcoming place. In today's article, discover the reasons why living in the Azores can be a wonderful choice, the best areas to live, the cost of living, the activities that make life in this paradise even more rewarding and the pros and cons of living in the Azores.
Pros and cons of living in the Azores
Living in the Azores has a range of pros and cons, like anywhere. Known as the pearls of the Atlantic, the nine paradisiacal islands of the Azores are an invitation to a serene life, far from urban chaos. The constant presence of the sea and the possibility of enjoying stunning natural landscapes are just some of the attractions that make living in the Azores a tempting option for many. Choosing the Azores as a place to live brings a series of advantages:
- With volcanic landscapes, scenic lakes, hiking trails and pristine beaches, the Azores offer a spectacular natural setting that attracts nature lovers from around the world.
- The temperate climate of the Azores provides mild temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal place for those looking to escape climate extremes.
- With low levels of pollution, crime and traffic, the Azores offer an exceptionally high quality of life, where you can enjoy tranquillity and security.
- The rich Azorean cultural heritage, which combines Portuguese and local influences, provides a unique experience, reflected in the region's music, gastronomy and festivities.
However, living in the Azores also has disadvantages to be aware of.
- Despite the advantages, geographic isolation can be a challenge for some people, especially those who are used to the hustle and bustle of big cities.
- Compared to larger urban areas, employment opportunities in the Azores can be more limited, which can be a concern for professionals looking for specific careers.
Where to live in the Azores
Which is the best Azores island to live on? Choosing the ideal place to live in the Azores is a decision that deserves special attention. The decision of which island in the Azores to choose to live on is as personal as it is varied. Each site offers different features that can be adjusted to each person's preferences and needs.
Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
Ponta Delgada offers a wide range of services, commercial, cultural and leisure facilities. It is a great choice for those looking for urban living with modern amenities, as well as being strategically located for exploring the island of São Miguel.
Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira
This historic city, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO , has a unique charm with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Furthermore, it has a welcoming atmosphere, ideal for those looking for a more peaceful life in a historic environment.
Horta, Faial
Located on a stunning bay, Horta is a port city with a vibrant cultural scene and a cosmopolitan community due to the traffic of yachts and sailboats that call at the island. It is an excellent choice for lovers of the sea and local culture.
Cost of Living: comparison between Azores and Mainland Portugal
When talking about living in the Azores, one of the first questions that comes up is the cost of living. In fact, many find the Azores a more accessible alternative compared to the mainland.
- Housing, for example, tends to be more affordable, especially outside the more developed urban areas such as Ponta Delgada.
- Food, rich in local and fresh products, also has more advantageous prices, although some imported items may have an additional cost due to transport.
- Furthermore, Azoreans benefit from a reduced VAT, which is 18% in the Azores compared to 23% on the mainland. This tax benefit is directly reflected in the final price of many products and services, providing significant savings over time.
- However, it is important to note that isolation can lead to an increase in the costs of some goods and transport logistics, something that should be considered when planning a move to the islands.
How much does a house cost in the Azores? Find out by consulting the latest idealista price reports for the area:
- Evolution of the price of housing for sale in the Azores
- Evolution of the price of rental housing in the Azores
Living in the Azores: the challenge of geographic isolation
Isolation can be a challenge, but it is also part of the Azorean charm. It's not always easy to live with the reality of being surrounded by the ocean, however you can discover how this situation can even be an advantage for your well-being.
The feeling of being in a close-knit community, where everyone knows everyone, can be extremely comforting, even if you're new to the island and don't yet speak the language. Furthermore, the constant presence of the sea offers a feeling of freedom and provides natural spectacles such as unforgettable sunsets that are always present in the memories of those who live or visit the islands .
Living in the Azores: a detailed look at essential services
Although there is notable growth in services, especially tourism, some islands still face limitations in areas such as healthcare and education. It's a good idea to do you research before deciding where to live in order to find out what each island has to offer. For example, while São Miguel and Terceira have a more complete infrastructure, other islands may have more basic services, which requires careful analysis when planning a move to the Azores.
What to do in the Azores
To explore life in the Azores is to embark on a journey of tranquillity and natural beauty, balanced with modern conveniences.
- Explore Nature - hiking, diving, whale watching and boat trips are just some of the outdoor activities you can do in the Azores.
- Culture and history - visit historic city centres, local museums and participate in traditional festivals to immerse yourself in the rich Azorean culture.
- Gastronomy - we couldn’t talk about the Azores and address the topic of food. Try local dishes, such as Furnas stew , stewed octopus and São Jorge cheese.
Living in the Azores is a unique life experience, with stunning landscapes, exceptional quality of life and rich culture. Although there are challenges, the advantages far outweigh them, making the Azores an attractive choice for those looking to buy or rent a home, with a peaceful life and stunning landscapes.
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