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Portugal

Cost of Living in Lisbon

Find out if you can afford to live in Lisbon. Calculate your expenses for rent, food, transport & more. Get a personalized affordability report.

$1,100
Rent
$300
Food
$40
Transport
$130
Utilities

Cost Breakdown in Lisbon

Rent Analysis

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Lisbon is approximately $1,100 per month.

$1,100
average monthly rent

Salary Comparison

See how your salary stacks up against the cost of living in Lisbon.

Recommended salary
$4,500
monthly before tax

Total Monthly Cost

Average lifestyle, single person

$1,570/mo

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Tips to Save Money in Lisbon

Consider living slightly outside the city center to save 20-40% on rent.

Cook at home and use local markets for fresh, affordable produce.

Use public transportation instead of ride-sharing services.

Look for shared housing or co-living spaces to reduce costs.

Take advantage of free cultural events and outdoor activities.

๐Ÿฅ Healthcare in Lisbon

Lisbon offers both public and private healthcare options for residents and expats. Private health insurance typically costs between $50โ€“$150/month and provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care. Many international workers opt for private insurance to ensure faster access to English-speaking doctors.

๐ŸŒ Internet & Coworking in Lisbon

Lisbon has reliable high-speed internet with average speeds of 50โ€“200 Mbps. Home broadband typically costs $30โ€“$60/month. For digital nomads and remote workers, coworking spaces range from $100โ€“$300/month for a hot desk. Many cafรฉs also offer strong WiFi, making Lisbon a productive base for remote work.

๐Ÿ›‚ Visa & Immigration for Lisbon

Visa requirements for Lisbon depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas for remote workers with minimum income requirements. Always check the latest immigration rules for Portugal before planning your move. Consider consulting an immigration specialist for personalized advice.

๐Ÿ”’ Safety in Lisbon

Lisbon is generally considered safe for expats and tourists. As with any major city, exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in tourist areas, so stay vigilant in crowded spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of living in Lisbon?
The average monthly cost of living in Lisbon for a single person is approximately $1,570, including rent, food, transport, and utilities.
Is Lisbon expensive to live in?
With a cost index of 0.82, Lisbon is moderately priced compared to other major cities worldwide.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Lisbon?
To live comfortably in Lisbon, you would need a monthly salary of at least $4,500 before tax.
How much is rent in Lisbon?
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Lisbon's city center is approximately $1,100 per month.
What do software engineers earn in Lisbon?
Software engineers in Lisbon earn an estimated $8,816 gross per month (approximately $6,612 after tax). This is based on a US median of $9,500/mo scaled by Lisbon's cost-of-living index (0.82x).
What are the highest-paying jobs in Lisbon?
The highest-paying jobs in Lisbon include Doctor/Physician (~$14,848/mo), Surgeon (~$20,416/mo), Investment Banker (~$11,136/mo), Software Engineer (~$8,816/mo), and Dentist (~$12,064/mo). All figures are gross monthly estimates adjusted for local cost of living.
Is Lisbon a good place for digital nomads?
Lisbon is a popular digital nomad destination thanks to its affordable cost of living and growing remote-work infrastructure. With monthly living costs around $1,570, it offers excellent value for remote workers earning in USD or EUR.
How much does food cost per month in Lisbon?
A single person spending an average on food in Lisbon can expect to pay around $300 per month. This includes groceries for home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. Eating out frequently at mid-range restaurants can push this figure higher.
What are the transport costs in Lisbon?
Monthly transport costs in Lisbon average around $40 per person. This typically covers a monthly transit pass or equivalent commuting expenses. Owning a car will significantly increase this figure due to insurance, fuel, and parking.
How much are utilities in Lisbon?
Monthly utility bills (electricity, heating/cooling, water, and garbage) in Lisbon average $130 for a standard apartment. Costs vary seasonally โ€” expect higher bills in winter or summer depending on the climate.
What is the tax rate in Lisbon?
The effective income tax rate for a mid-income earner in Portugal is approximately 25%. This is a simplified estimate โ€” actual rates depend on your specific income level, filing status, and any applicable deductions or credits. Consult a local tax advisor for personalized guidance.
How does Lisbon compare to other cities for cost of living?
Lisbon has a cost-of-living index of 0.82x the US average. It sits in the mid-range globally, offering a balance of quality of life and affordability.

Job Salaries in Lisbon

Estimated gross monthly salaries for popular professions in Lisbon, adjusted for local cost of living (index: 0.82x US average).

Software Engineer
$8,816
gross/mo
Data Scientist
$8,352
gross/mo
Doctor / Physician
$14,848
gross/mo
Nurse
$6,032
gross/mo
Financial Analyst
$6,496
gross/mo
Teacher
$4,454
gross/mo
Marketing Manager
$6,032
gross/mo
Civil Engineer
$6,496
gross/mo

* Estimates are based on US median salaries adjusted for Lisbon's cost index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and industry. Use the search below to find real open positions.

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Data Methodology: Cost of living data is based on crowdsourced statistics and government sources including Numbeo, OECD, and national statistics offices as of 2026. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle, neighborhood, and personal circumstances. Salary estimates are derived from US median salaries adjusted by local cost-of-living indices. This tool is for informational purposes and should not be used as the sole basis for financial decisions. Learn more about our methodology โ†’

Last updated: May 2026

Lisbon ยท $1,570/mo

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