Faro is the ideal place to live if you enjoy national parks, beaches, and will need to fly often, as it is a central location in the Algarve and has an international airport. The proximity to the protected wetlands Ria Formosa Natural Park provides ample opportunity to enjoy Faro’s natural beauty.  Faro offers a great climate for outdoor and water activities year round, with mild winters and hot summers. Life in Faro is cheaper than Lisbon, and rent is generally more affordable than other Algarve cities like Lagos and Albufeira, according to Numbeo data.

There are many schools in Faro: public as well as private schools, starting from preschool ages to secondary schools. The University of Algarve is located in Faro, and is one of the most respectable schools in the Algarve region. Three of its campuses are in Faro, while the fourth one is in Portimão.

Faro is one of the safest cities in Portugal. There is a very low crime rate in Faro, and locals are friendly and welcoming, making it a safe town to explore.

The city of Faro itself is small, and therefore very walkable. To explore the city centre it’s actually recommended to do it on foot, especially because parking can be challenging. To get around the greater region of Faro, you can use the public bus network which is efficient and affordable. Another option is to ride a bicycle, which is very doable in Faro as it has designated bicycle lanes. Ferries are often used to get to small islands outside of the mainland, and to get to other cities, there are trains available.

Life in Faro is a laid-back and charming town, characterised by small buildings and houses. With the Ria Formosa Natural Park nearby, a small city centre, and the University of Algarve, Faro offers a young, relaxing, but vibrant atmosphere especially compared to its neighbouring Algarve party towns. Portuguese cuisine is one of the best in Algarve, and Faro is no exception, particularly when it comes to seafood dishes. There are also plenty of fun outdoor activities as well as cultural events held in Faro.

Tourism is the most important source of revenue in Faro, bringing significant economic growth to the region. Another important sector is trade and commerce, seeing as Faro is a major hub connecting to various parts of Algarve and Portugal. Entrepreneurship has been growing in Faro, with coworking spaces and incubator programs increasing in the past years. The service sector is also an important part of the economy, as well as fishing and real estate. Meanwhile, the University of Algarve plays a big role for the education sector, leading to advances in research and innovation.