What Digital Nomads Should Know About Lagos Property Compared to the UK

The rise of remote work has given professionals more freedom than ever before and many are using this freedom to relocate to places that offer a better quality of life. Among emerging European hotspots, Lagos, Portugal stands out particularly for UK remote workers seeking better weather, lower costs and improved work-life balance. Here’s how these two destinations compare.

Climate and Lifestyle

Lagos offers a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine per year. For digital nomads accustomed to the UK’s unpredictable weather, the consistent warmth and sunshine of Lagos make outdoor living a daily reality. If working from a terrace café, taking a midday break at the beach, or going for a surf after work, Lagos encourages a lifestyle where nature plays a central role.

In contrast, the UK’s long winters and frequent rain can make outdoor activities harder to enjoy year-round. The limited daylight hours in winter can also impact mood and productivity, making Lagos a far more appealing destination for those seeking sunshine and fresh air.

Cost of Living

Disclaimer: All currency conversions are approximate and based on the exchange rate €1 ≈ £0.83665 as of March 2025. Exchange rates fluctuate, and actual values may vary at the time of transaction.

The cost of living in Lagos is generally lower than in major UK cities. Rent, dining out and leisure activities are more affordable, allowing remote workers to enjoy a higher standard of living without the financial pressures often faced in the UK.

For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in Lagos can cost significantly less than in London or even smaller UK cities. Groceries, public transport and dining out also tend to be cheaper. This financial relief allows digital nomads to invest in experiences rather than just covering basic living expenses.

In a recent feature, a British mum described how her family downsized their expenses by relocating to the Algarve, paying just £420 a month for a three-bedroom home with outdoor space and access to nature. While her story doesn’t focus solely on Lagos, it reflects a broader truth; life in this region offers more affordability. 

Internet and Workspaces

Reliable internet is essential for digital nomads and Lagos has made great strides in improving connectivity. High-speed fibre internet is widely available and many cafés and coworking spaces cater specifically to remote workers.

The UK generally has excellent internet infrastructure, but Lagos competes well, particularly with the rise of coworking spaces like LACS and Algarve Digital Nomads, which provide strong Wi-Fi, networking events and a collaborative atmosphere. For those who prefer a more relaxed setting, beachside cafés with good internet are plentiful.

Work-Life Balance and Stress Levels

Lagos promotes a slower, more relaxed pace of life, which contrasts sharply with the often high-stress work culture in the UK. The emphasis on leisure, community and wellness in Portugal means that digital nomads can structure their workday in a way that prioritises both productivity and relaxation.

In fact, studies consistently highlight the role of lifestyle and environment in enhancing mental health. Portugal was recently ranked among the top 10 countries for mental health, making its debut on the leaderboard last year. 

Community and Networking

Lagos has a thriving digital nomad community, making it easy for newcomers to integrate and find like-minded professionals. Regular meetups, networking events and social activities create a sense of belonging and collaboration among remote workers.

While the UK has a strong business and startup culture, it can be harder to find community support in large, busy cities. Lagos’ smaller, more personal atmosphere fosters connections, making it easier for digital nomads to build both professional and personal relationships.

Travel and Accessibility

For digital nomads who still need to visit the UK for work or family, Lagos is well-connected. Faro Airport, just an hour away, offers direct flights to major UK cities, making travel back and forth relatively easy.

In contrast, UK-based remote workers looking for a quick getaway to a warmer destination often have to deal with higher travel costs and longer flight times. Lagos offers the advantage of being both a home and a holiday destination in one.

Final Verdict

For UK digital nomads and remote workers, Lagos offers a compelling alternative. It’s no surprise that more remote workers are making the move.

Lagos offers the perfect balance of work and leisure, allowing professionals to maintain productivity while embracing a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.