California teacher moved to Portugal with four suitcases, now owns 2 homes

Growing concerns about the cost of living and retirement security have led a number of Americans to look beyond their borders for a more sustainable way of life. An exclusive CNN feature, drawn from a conversation with the retired California teacher Paula Dreyfuss, follows the story of how she discovered a new path after moving to Portugal in 2021. What started as an effort to make her retirement funds go further has since grown into an entirely new phase of life, complete with property ownership, deep community connections and an ongoing application for Portuguese citizenship.Leaving California behindIn 2021, the retired teacher made a life-changing decision: she packed her belongings into four suitcases, brought her dog along, and left behind her familiar surroundings in search of a place where her retirement income could provide a more comfortable lifestyle. Her destination was Portugal, a country that has attracted retirees and expats for years with its relatively affordable cost of living, mild climate, and relaxed pace of life.Once there, she slowly settled into her surroundings, immersing herself in the local culture and building connections within her community. Looking back after five years, she credits the move with giving her both financial breathing room and a renewed sense of direction.From renting to owning two homesIn the years since her move, she has gone on to purchase two apartments in Portugal, an achievement she says would have been far harder to reach had she stayed in California. Relocating allowed her retirement savings to stretch much further because housing costs remain considerably lower than in much of the United States.Her life in Portugal has brought more than financial perks. She has come to appreciate the ease of walkable neighbourhoods, reliable public transportation, accessible healthcare and an overall slower rhythm to daily life. According to the CNN feature, she feels the move has strengthened both her day to day happiness and her financial footing for the years ahead.A long-term future in PortugalFor her, this is no longer just a retirement experiment; it has turned into a permanent commitment. She currently lives in Portugal under a temporary residency status that requires renewal every two to three years and has recently begun the process of applying for Portuguese citizenship. She also speaks of a deepened sense of belonging, having built genuine relationships within the community she now calls home.Her journey reflects a wider pattern among retirees and remote workers who are increasingly looking abroad for affordability, a better lifestyle and stronger financial footing. Portugal continues to be a top choice among these destinations, valued for its climate, safety, well developed infrastructure and openness toward international residents.For this former California teacher, relocating turned out to be far more than a simple change of scenery. It gave her the chance to shape retirement on her own terms, while building toward a future she sees as more secure and more fulfilling. Her story shows how, for some retirees, relocating abroad can open the door to greater financial stability, personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.(Source: This article is based on CNN's exclusive feature and interview with the retired California teacher.)Looking for trusted parenting advice? Follow TOI Parenting Circle on Instagram for expert guidance, relatable stories, and practical tips delivered every day.