How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon’s Growing Digital Nomad Scene

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Average Monthly Rent at Selina Secret Garden Lisbon Drops to €800 Including Utilities and Workspace

Finding a decent place to stay in Lisbon without breaking the bank can be tough, especially if you're a digital nomad looking for a long-term option. Selina Secret Garden Lisbon has recently slashed its average monthly rent to just €800, which is a very attractive price point considering it includes utilities and workspace access. This boutique hostel offers more than your typical hostel, catering to a community feel while competing with less luxurious four-star hotels.

They've got a variety of shared rooms, including both larger dorm-style options and smaller ones, even some that cater specifically to female travelers. Location-wise, it's nestled in the trendy Cais do Sodré neighborhood, putting you within easy reach of other cool Lisbon areas like Bairro Alto and Alfama. And the hostel itself boasts amenities that are hard to beat for the price, including a rooftop deck, pool, and comfortable coworking areas with free WiFi.


Lisbon's appeal for digital nomads is undeniable, but the cost of living can quickly escalate. The cost of living in Lisbon is considerably lower than many other international cities, yet expenses can still be significant. Families face higher expenses, while even individual costs can stack up quickly without careful planning. For those seeking a more affordable extended stay, options like Selina Secret Garden demonstrate how co-living can help digital nomads significantly lower their overall travel costs and maximize their time spent experiencing what Lisbon has to offer.

Selina Secret Garden Lisbon, a sort of upscale hostel, is an interesting example of how shared living can affect housing costs. Apparently, the average monthly rent there has dipped to €800, including things like utilities and a workspace. This is quite competitive when compared to the typical 1-bedroom apartment in the center which goes for about €1,000. It makes you wonder if this is a trend that will only accelerate. The Selina Secret Garden offers various dorm-style rooms, from 6- to 10-bed shared spaces, even some for female-only. This shared setup, while perhaps not for everyone, likely explains the lower price. The location is quite attractive too, within walking distance of some of Lisbon's coolest neighborhoods, like Cais do Sodré, Bairro Alto and Alfama. The rooftop deck and pool area are a plus, and coworking space with free wifi appears to cater to the needs of the digital nomad crowd that is becoming more prominent in Lisbon.

It's interesting to see how the living costs in Lisbon compare to other major cities like New York. They appear to be about half the price when you remove the rent component. You could imagine that many people are drawn to the lower cost of living, especially with the rise of remote work and airline fare flexibility to these regions. You can see how a family of four would only need around €2,748 per month for living expenses excluding rent, or a single person about €778. It's not a coincidence that co-living solutions like Selina are attracting a large pool of people who want a longer-term and possibly more affordable stay.

What else is in this post?

1. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Average Monthly Rent at Selina Secret Garden Lisbon Drops to €800 Including Utilities and Workspace
2. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Portuguese Nomad Villages Network Links 6 Beach Towns with Group Housing Under €1,000
3. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - TAP Air Portugal Adds Weekly Direct Flights from San Francisco to Lisbon Starting March 2025
4. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - New Startup HubHouse Opens 200-Bed Co-living Space in Baixa District at €35/Night
5. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Lisbon Digital Nomad Association Reports 45% Growth in American Members Since D7 Visa Launch
6. How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Local Food Markets and Shared Kitchens Cut Monthly Food Costs to €300 for Co-living Groups

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Portuguese Nomad Villages Network Links 6 Beach Towns with Group Housing Under €1,000

Portugal's digital nomad scene is expanding beyond Lisbon, with a new network of "Nomad Villages" linking six coastal towns. This initiative provides group housing options for under €1,000, making it a compelling choice for remote workers looking to combine work with a beach lifestyle. The focus on affordability and community resonates with the growing trend of digital nomadism, particularly in areas like the Algarve, which is drawing in individuals seeking a change of pace and a more relaxed work environment.

These villages, designed to cater specifically to remote workers, are likely to further solidify Portugal's position as a leading destination for creatives and digital nomads. The model of co-living and shared accommodations offers a considerable cost advantage, especially when compared to traditional rental options. As the digital nomad community expands, one can expect to see further development and refinement of this type of communal living arrangement, enhancing the experience for those seeking a more affordable and connected lifestyle in sunny Portugal. While Lisbon still attracts many, Portugal's diverse coastline with its charming beach towns may hold an appeal for those seeking a more localized and laid-back experience.

Portugal's coastal regions are quietly emerging as a haven for digital nomads, with a network of villages specifically catering to this growing community. These "Nomad Villages" are scattered across six beach towns and offer shared housing options for under €1,000 a month, significantly less than the cost of living in bustling urban areas like Lisbon. It's fascinating how this model is attracting individuals who prioritize a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing access to beautiful surroundings.

The allure of Portugal isn't just about the cost of living; it's also about the easy access to low-cost flights, especially from major European hubs. Budget airlines often have fares to Lisbon in the €30-€70 range, making it easy and economical to travel to Portugal for an extended period. This increased affordability is likely a major contributing factor to Portugal's rise as a digital nomad destination.

Portugal, with its rich history and culture, boasts 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites provide a unique backdrop for nomads, offering a glimpse into the country's diverse heritage and often at relatively low costs. Coupled with excellent airport connectivity, especially through Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport, it's clear that the infrastructure is built to handle the influx of international visitors seeking more flexible travel options.


Comparing the cost of living in Portugal to places like Berlin or Barcelona shows a noticeable difference: it's about 35% less in Portugal—excluding rent, of course. The lower cost of living, along with the emergence of these co-living options, clearly attracts those looking for a longer and more budget-friendly stay. It's noteworthy that coastal areas have also experienced a surge in demand for real estate and rentals; however, annual increases in these regions have been relatively modest at 10-15%, whereas larger cities often experience much steeper growth of 25% or more.

Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime is also worth highlighting. It offers attractive tax benefits to expats, including a flat tax rate of 20% for specific types of income. This is another incentive that appeals to digital nomads considering Portugal as their remote work base.


Beyond the financial advantages, co-living spaces in these coastal villages offer more than just a roof over your head. They cultivate a sense of community amongst those with similar mindsets, fostering networking and collaboration, which can be a major boost to productivity and even mental well-being.


The appeal extends to culinary experiences too. Dining out at local restaurants generally costs around €10-€15, providing affordable and tasty options for long-term residents. This access to local flavors enhances the appeal for many people. Finally, Portugal's climate plays a significant role. With over 300 sunny days a year, it's an ideal environment for outdoor living, allowing for a better balance between work and leisure. This makes it an especially attractive place for digital nomads who seek more than just a workspace. The combination of relatively low costs, a vibrant culture, and a great climate makes Portugal a fascinating study for those interested in the future of remote work and travel.

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - TAP Air Portugal Adds Weekly Direct Flights from San Francisco to Lisbon Starting March 2025

TAP Air Portugal is adding another flight option to its US network starting in March 2025 with a new weekly direct flight between San Francisco and Lisbon. This new service will cut down the travel time quite a bit with the roughly 5,700 mile distance covered in about 11 hours and 15 minutes. This route is just part of a broader push by TAP to significantly increase its Lisbon flight frequencies. This is great news for travelers, particularly those who work remotely and are looking for a more affordable and engaging European city to base themselves out of.

TAP's strategy to boost connections to Lisbon aligns well with efforts to improve Portugal's appeal to a wider range of international travelers, including digital nomads who are drawn to the city's relatively low cost of living and the surrounding vibrant cultural landscape. This development also further expands on initiatives like TAP's Stopover Program which helps travelers discover more of Portugal outside of just Lisbon. Increased flight access to Lisbon might not only help digital nomads save on their living costs, but also makes it far easier to reach numerous local experiences that Lisbon and the surrounding region offer.

TAP Air Portugal is adding another weekly direct flight from San Francisco to Lisbon starting in March 2025. This adds to their existing four weekly flights already in place. This new route, covering 5,699 miles and taking roughly 11 hours and 15 minutes, further strengthens TAP's presence in the North American market, with their plan to offer a total of 77 weekly flights to the US. While flight times vary, they currently depart between 4:20 PM and 8:15 PM from San Francisco.

The new route is part of TAP's broader strategy to increase connectivity to Lisbon. It's interesting to see this strategy unfold in the context of competition with other airlines like United and Lufthansa, which already offer routes to Lisbon. With more options, hopefully, travelers can secure better pricing or possibly experience better services.

In addition to San Francisco, TAP also intends to boost its North American presence with the addition of 10 more weekly flights in 2024, which is noteworthy. It will be interesting to see how this growth impacts the overall demand and prices for Lisbon-bound flights.

TAP's expansion is partly due to the growth of Lisbon as a tech hub. SXSW dubbed Lisbon "the next Silicon Valley of Europe" in 2024. This is driving an increasing demand for talent and spurring innovation which attracts people from outside the region. Their expansion is interesting, but I'm curious if this growth is sustainable over the long-term, or if we will see it stabilize in a few years.

TAP's Airbus A330 Neos are relatively quiet aircraft when taking off or landing, and their high cargo capacity also underscores a growing demand to transport freight. This new route could boost the Lisbon region's economy in an interesting way.

The increase in passenger travel, along with other factors, like the growing community of digital nomads in Lisbon, could put further pressure on Lisbon's infrastructure. Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon is also experiencing upgrades. Improved amenities like lounge access and enhanced dining could certainly improve the passenger experience.


However, the growth in Lisbon's popularity can also have a downside. With more visitors and an expanding expat population, urban property prices are likely to see an increase. The interplay between a growing community of nomads, the increasing travel options and the pressure on available resources is an interesting economic dynamic that will be fascinating to study over the next few years.

In any case, TAP's increased presence in North America can be beneficial for tourists and potentially for digital nomads interested in spending extended periods in Lisbon, since it potentially creates more options for flights and potentially lower prices over time.

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - New Startup HubHouse Opens 200-Bed Co-living Space in Baixa District at €35/Night

Lisbon's Baixa district now boasts a new 200-bed co-living space, courtesy of startup HubHouse. Offering nightly rates as low as €35, this new facility is directly targeting the growing influx of digital nomads choosing Lisbon as a base. It's a clear sign of how the co-living model, built around shared living spaces and amenities, is becoming increasingly popular in cities that see a rise in remote workers.

HubHouse's new facility presents a compelling solution for digital nomads seeking affordable yet sociable housing. These shared living spaces, with common areas and workspaces, are designed to foster a sense of community amongst its residents. As the number of people opting for extended stays in Lisbon grows, co-living spaces like this might well be shaping the future of urban living for this demographic. It's a model that can seamlessly intertwine work, social life, and leisure, possibly altering the way travelers experience the city. While this might be a smart solution for many, others may feel uncomfortable with such communal arrangements. It remains to be seen how many travelers will embrace this type of accommodation in the years to come.

HubHouse's recent launch of a 200-bed co-living space in Lisbon's Baixa district, offering rooms for €35 a night, is quite intriguing. This model, primarily targeting digital nomads, seems to be a cost-effective way to live in a popular area.

Co-living, which really gained momentum around 2013, offers a shared living experience with common areas, workspaces, and often, gym facilities. It's appealing to freelancers and remote workers who value a community aspect while seeking affordable housing in attractive urban locations. The notion of co-living tackles the usual headaches of finding suitable and economical accommodations.

HubHouse's pricing model is certainly competitive, considering the average hotel rate in Lisbon. It's interesting to consider how this low entry point will influence the number of longer-term travelers that are drawn to Lisbon. The Baixa area has experienced a revival of sorts, which likely has had a positive impact on local businesses, including the proliferation of cafes and workspaces.

It's fascinating to examine how the city's infrastructure, such as public transportation, interacts with this shift towards co-living. Investments in things like metro extensions and bike-sharing programs make it easier for people to get around. Additionally, stable and fast internet access, a common feature in many co-living spaces, is vital for remote workers.

The fact that Lisbon's airport offers flights to 160+ destinations and that numerous budget airlines service routes to the city, makes access relatively easy and affordable for digital nomads based in Europe. This increased accessibility to travel to Lisbon likely further attracts individuals interested in more flexible work and travel options.

Looking at the culinary side, Lisbon's relatively affordable dining options are attractive for those staying longer-term. The typical cost of a meal at a casual establishment is roughly €12 to €15. This factor will likely influence cost-conscious travelers.

It's clear that co-living has picked up steam in Europe. The rapid growth of this segment, about 200% over five years, suggests the model is becoming a legitimate alternative. Co-living startups are fostering community through gatherings like dinners and workshops, integrating residents into the local culture.

It is worth looking at how co-living arrangements compare to a standard rental scenario. By using co-living, individuals can potentially trim their monthly expenses by around 30%, considering they get access to utilities and shared spaces in their costs. This is likely a key factor for digital nomads seeking longer-term, and cost-conscious, stays.

In conclusion, the co-living model that companies like HubHouse are employing appears to provide a cost-effective way to live in popular travel destinations like Lisbon. It's certainly a development worth keeping an eye on to see how the model continues to evolve in this growing trend for individuals working and traveling remotely. It is likely that this kind of shared housing arrangement will play an ever-larger role in the future.

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Lisbon Digital Nomad Association Reports 45% Growth in American Members Since D7 Visa Launch

The Lisbon Digital Nomad Association has seen a notable 45% surge in American members since Portugal launched the D7 visa, specifically designed for those seeking to work and reside in the country. This rise in American digital nomads is fueled by a combination of factors. Lisbon's charm, its sunny climate, and its cultural richness are strong attractions. However, the accessibility of affordable co-living options, like those found in Selina Secret Garden, has played a vital role in reducing overall travel costs and making it appealing for longer-term stays. While Portugal offers a comparatively lower cost of living compared to many Western European destinations, Lisbon’s increasing costs, particularly for housing, have become a point of concern for some digital nomads. The adoption of co-living arrangements, as seen in Selina and HubHouse, is a solution many are utilizing, showcasing a wider trend of remote workers desiring a sense of community and shared living spaces. This approach may significantly impact how urban living evolves for the digitally nomadic population as Lisbon further strengthens its position on the global stage.

The D7 Visa, specifically designed to attract remote workers and retirees, has led to a notable 45% increase in American digital nomads in Lisbon. This influx is noticeably changing the city's landscape, particularly driving demand for co-living and shared housing solutions.

The affordability of flights to Lisbon from European cities is another key factor in the city's rise as a digital nomad haven. Budget airlines often offer flights for €30-€70, making access convenient and economical, especially for those wanting to experience extended stays.


The "Nomad Villages" network, spread across Portugal's coast, offers shared housing for under €1,000 a month, showcasing a new trend in remote worker living. This model seems to attract individuals who seek community-oriented living and affordable solutions beyond the hustle of larger urban centers like Lisbon.

Culinary expenses in Lisbon appear relatively low, with typical meals at local restaurants around €10-€15. This contributes to the long-term attractiveness of the city for digital nomads, allowing them to enjoy the local cuisine without excessive spending.


TAP Air Portugal's ongoing expansion of flight frequencies to the US, with plans to offer 77 weekly flights, suggests they’re aiming to capture the growing digital nomad market. Increased flights to Lisbon could translate to more competitive pricing and potentially wider flight options, a positive for travelers.


Co-living has experienced a rapid expansion, roughly doubling in the last five years. This underscores a noteworthy change in how travelers view and prioritize accommodation. These shared spaces not only cut costs but also generate valuable networking opportunities, benefiting those working remotely.

Compared to other major cities like Berlin and Barcelona, the cost of living in Lisbon is about 35% lower, excluding rent, which seems to be a key reason for the growing interest among digital nomads.


Portugal's Non-Habitual Resident tax program offers a flat 20% tax rate on particular types of income, an incentive for remote professionals who seek optimized financial strategies alongside a low cost of living.

Lisbon's airport connectivity is extensive, offering over 160 flight destinations. This enhanced accessibility benefits digital nomads whose work often requires flexible travel arrangements across Europe and beyond.


As the number of digital nomads increases, so does the impact on Lisbon's real estate market. Property values are experiencing price growth in both urban and coastal areas. While the city remains comparatively affordable, the rising demand for housing could eventually impact the affordability for some. It will be interesting to see how this dynamic unfolds over time.

How Co-living Slomads Save 45% on Long-term Travel Costs in Lisbon's Growing Digital Nomad Scene - Local Food Markets and Shared Kitchens Cut Monthly Food Costs to €300 for Co-living Groups

Co-living groups in Lisbon are discovering that utilizing local food markets and sharing kitchen resources can effectively keep their monthly food bills around €300. This collaborative approach not only promotes a sense of community among the digital nomads who often make up these groups but also helps to counter the rising cost of living in a city known for its lively food culture. Given the recent increases in food prices across the EU, shared kitchens and the utilization of local markets have become a smart solution for those who want to appreciate the local culinary scene while managing their expenses. These shared dining experiences encourage social interaction and offer unique opportunities for individuals to explore the city's fresh ingredients and traditional dishes. Through these strategies, co-living groups have managed to create a way to enjoy Lisbon's vibrant food culture while facing the current economic climate head-on.

Co-living in Lisbon has become a popular strategy for digital nomads, often referred to as "Slomads," looking to minimize living costs while enjoying the city's attractions. One of the most notable ways Slomads are managing their budgets is through shared kitchens and the use of local food markets. This approach can reduce monthly food spending to around €300, a remarkably low figure when considering the cost of food across Europe has been rising sharply in recent years. It's been reported that food prices in the EU increased by 16.6% in the year leading up to April, substantially surpassing the general inflation rate. While the rising cost of living is a major concern across the continent, Slomads are leveraging these local food systems and co-living facilities to mitigate these effects.

This focus on resourcefulness highlights a trend toward community-driven solutions for managing food costs and other essential expenses. For instance, organizations are starting to look into food-sharing initiatives, recognizing the potential for increased food security through community-driven agriculture and distribution. These community-oriented solutions can be beneficial for households, especially lower-income groups, who often experience higher food insecurity rates. In the US, over 10% of households were classified as food insecure in 2021, with this rate climbing to 32% for households below the poverty line.

The emergence of co-living and Slomad communities in Lisbon appears to be directly influenced by the rising cost of living, which is a driving factor behind how individuals are adapting their spending patterns, including changes to their dietary habits. While food cost containment has certainly received attention, other related trends have emerged, such as a rise in "Nomad Villages" across Portugal's coastline. These areas cater specifically to remote workers, providing a different alternative to the often-higher costs associated with living in cities like Lisbon. The "Nomad Villages" model of affordable group housing for under €1,000 a month shows another facet of how people are trying to manage their costs in Portugal.

It's interesting that while Lisbon is drawing in many digital nomads, other areas of Portugal seem to offer an appealing counterpoint. The relative affordability of both housing and travel options in Portugal, coupled with the availability of budget airlines with competitive fares, provides a unique combination of factors that is attracting a considerable number of digital nomads and contributing to a notable change in the regional economy. While the impact on Lisbon's infrastructure and real estate market is noteworthy and likely to grow in the coming years, the overall cost advantages in Portugal, relative to other European cities like Berlin or Barcelona, appear to be the major draw for many digital nomads. This makes the Portuguese capital and its surroundings an interesting economic study case for future trends in remote work and tourism.