German retiree relocates to Portugal due to housing costs

Birgit Reuner, a 68-year-old retiree from Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany, has emigrated to Portugal due to the inability to find affordable housing on her pension. After being forced to move in early 2024, Reuner decided to relocate to Portugal, citing its low cost of living compared to other European nations.

In October 2024, Reuner began a journey of over 2,000 kilometers by car, traveling through France and Spain. Her initial destination is Ponte de Lima, Portugal, where she will stay temporarily in an annex apartment provided by a couple from Überlingen while she searches for a permanent home.