Lisbon Crowned Top European City for High-Net-Worth Investors, Report Reveals

Lisbon Crowned Top European City for High-Net-Worth Investors, Report Reveals

A new report from Quintela + Penalva | Knight Frank has identified Lisbon as the most sought-after European city for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) considering relocation. The 'European Lifestyle Report' indicates a strong preference for urban living among the wealthy, with the Portuguese capital outranking both London and Madrid. The study, based on a survey of over 700 HNWIs from 11 countries, signals a significant shift in the global mobility of wealth and highlights the specific attributes drawing affluent buyers to Portugal.

The findings reveal a distinct demographic pull, with Lisbon being the top choice for the Gen Z and Baby Boomer generations, while younger HNWIs still show a preference for London. Among the international cohort targeting Lisbon, citizens from Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the United States are the most prominent. This interest translates directly into market activity, with the report confirming that Brazilians, French, and North Americans currently represent the top three nationalities for actual property acquisitions in Portugal. This data underscores the deep and diverse international demand fueling the premium segment of the nation's property market.

The primary drivers behind these relocation decisions are multifaceted, combining financial objectives with lifestyle considerations. According to the survey, the leading motivations are business opportunities and the search for financial stability, which are closely linked with Portugal's favorable tax incentives. The country's reputation for political, social, and personal stability was ranked as the third most important factor, a critical consideration in a world of increasing geopolitical uncertainty. This is followed by the desire for a better lifestyle in retirement and access to high-quality healthcare, confirming that both economic and quality-of-life factors are paramount.

For expatriate families and professionals, specific support infrastructure is non-negotiable. The report emphasizes that access to reputable international schools and a robust transportation network remain top priorities for anyone planning a move. These practical considerations are essential for a smooth transition and are key elements in Lisbon's growing appeal as a long-term destination for international residents. The availability of these services provides the necessary foundation for HNWIs to establish both personal and professional roots in the country.

In terms of housing preferences, the trend leans towards more spacious living. The survey showed that nearly half of all respondents would choose to purchase a house or a villa, making it the most desired property type. This was followed by apartments and penthouses, with large rural properties being a lower priority. This preference reflects a desire for the comfort and privacy that standalone homes provide, even within an urban or suburban context, and points to strong demand in Lisbon's prime residential neighborhoods and the surrounding coastal areas like Cascais.

Kate Everett-Allen, Head of Europe Residential Research at Knight Frank, contextualized the findings within a broader global trend. "The wealthy have always had options, but they have never exercised them with such urgency and volume," she stated. "What we are witnessing is more than just a demographic shift. It is a reflection of a fundamental reshaping of the global wealth landscape – driven by geopolitical frictions, a recalibration of tax regimes, and a new era of greater mobility." The report confirms that Portugal, and Lisbon in particular, is a primary beneficiary of this global reshuffling of capital and talent. Get expert guidance for international property buyers at realestate-lisbon.com.