Celebrating Three Years in Madeira: Would We Do It All Over Again?
It’s hard to believe, but we’re celebrating three years since making the life-changing decision to move from North America to the stunning island of Madeira, Portugal. In 2021, we traded the familiar for the adventurous, embarking on a journey to redefine what the “Second Half of Life” could be. But now, after three years of living here, we’re reflecting: Is Madeira still as magical as when we first arrived? Would we make the same decision again? Let’s dive into these questions and share what we’ve learned.
Our Life in Portugal: Then vs. Now
Three years ago, we retired at 50, packed up our lives, and moved to Madeira amidst the global pandemic. Back then, we were cautious, careful, and admittedly a little nervous. Today, we’re seasoned residents who’ve embraced the culture, learned the language, and built a community of both expats and locals. One of the greatest rewards of this move has been the people. From expats across the globe to friendly locals, Madeira has given us a thriving social life. But here’s the secret to finding your tribe here (or anywhere): Be a joiner. Say “yes” to invitations, take classes, join groups, and be open to meeting people. That’s how we’ve built a circle of friends that feels like family.
Is Portugal Still a Great Choice for Expats?
You may have heard whispers that Portugal’s appeal is fading—claims that prices have skyrocketed, the cost of living is unaffordable, and expats are leaving. Don’t be fooled by clickbait. Here’s the reality:
• Cost of Living: While real estate prices have increased, especially in Lisbon and Porto, Madeira remains a fantastic value compared to North America. Weekly groceries for two still cost us around €120—a steal compared to what we’d pay back home. And while our grocery bills have risen slightly in three years, the increase has been modest.
• Expats Leaving? We’ve seen no evidence of a mass exodus. In fact, the expat community here is thriving. Most people who move to Madeira stay and love it. The few who leave are often digital nomads whose stay was always temporary.
• Quality of Life: The weather, safety, healthcare, and slower pace of life here are unmatched. These are the reasons we came, and they’re the reasons we stay.
Why Madeira is Different
Unlike mainland Portugal, Madeira offers a unique balance of affordability, beauty, and community. Yes, real estate prices have gone up slightly, but they’re still reasonable for most expats. Plus, short-term rentals (AL properties) are still an option here, unlike in Lisbon and Porto, where restrictions are tighter. Another advantage? Travel. From Madeira, we’re just a short, affordable flight from Europe’s top destinations—something that’s enriched our lives immensely.
Would We Do It Again?
Absolutely. If we could go back to 2021 and give advice to our former selves, sitting in our North American basement dreaming of this life, we’d say: “Do it. You won’t regret it.” Portugal has given us a better Second Half of Life filled with adventure, connection, and fulfillment. But is it the right choice for you? That depends on what you want. If you’re looking for a vibrant, welcoming community, a safe and affordable lifestyle, and a chance to experience Europe in all its glory, Portugal—and Madeira in particular—still ticks all the boxes.
Your Journey Starts Here
If you’re considering a move abroad or simply dreaming of a better second half of life, we’re here to help. Whether it’s through our YouTube videos or one-on-one consultations via Patreon, we’d love to share what we’ve learned and help you make informed decisions. Thank you for joining us on this journey. And as always, check back in and, Track Us Down!
