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Many people want to know the cost of living in Portugal because it’s becoming a favorite place for expats. Portugal is safe, sunny, and friendly. It has pretty beaches, peaceful towns, and big cities like Lisbon. You get to enjoy a good life without spending too much. That’s why more people move here every year.
Another reason people love Portugal is because life here feels simple and relaxed. Things like rent, food, and travel don’t cost as much as in other European countries. The cost of living in Portugal stays affordable for both families and solo travelers. At International Property Alerts, we help people learn about these costs so they can plan a better move.
If you’re wondering, what is the cost of living in Portugal? The answer depends on where you live and how you spend it. But most people agree it’s more affordable than in many other Western countries. Therefore, you can live a good life here, even on a small budget. Learn more about how our services can help you navigate your move or visit.
Rent is usually your biggest expense. In smaller towns, a one-bedroom apartment may cost €400–€600 per month. In big cities like Lisbon or Porto, rent can be higher—around €750–€1,000. On the other hand, sharing an apartment with someone can save you a lot of money. When you’re looking into real estate in Portugal, it’s helpful to compare different areas and housing types to find what fits your budget.
Groceries are also budget-friendly. That is to say, a single person spends about €200–€250 a month on food. Eating out is cheap too. A simple restaurant meal costs around €10. Also, coffee is usually just €1 at local cafés.
Monthly utilities (electricity, water, gas, and garbage) usually cost €100–€130. Internet adds about €30 more. Therefore, that brings the total to around €130–€160 monthly..
Public transport is easy to use and cheap. A monthly pass in Lisbon costs about €40. However, if you drive, gas and tolls cost more, but many people skip having a car.
So, the cost of living in Portugal can be low if you live simply. So, many people find the cost of living in Portugal per month to be easy to manage, even on a small income.
Overall, the average cost of living in Portugal is much lower than in places like the US, UK, or Germany. That’s one reason why Portugal is such a popular choice for expats.
Your rent in Portugal depends on where you live. Some cities cost more, while smaller towns are easier on your wallet. So, here’s how housing affects your cost of living in Portugal.
Lisbon is the most expensive city in the country. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost between €1,200 and €1,400. Therefore, if you move outside the center, rent drops to around €750 to €900. Also, many single expats share apartments to save money. That helps lower the cost of living in Portugal for single person, especially in busy areas like Lisbon.
Porto is a bit cheaper than Lisbon. In the city center, a one-bedroom flat costs about €1,000 to €1,200. Just outside the center, prices drop to around €800. Therefore, it’s a great choice if you want city life without paying Lisbon prices. That is to say, it’s popular with students, remote workers, and younger families.
Faro is in the sunny south, near the coast. Rent for a central apartment is around €980. If you choose a place outside the city, it may be closer to €800. The warm weather and smaller size make Faro a favorite for people who want peace and lower costs.
In smaller towns like Braga, Évora, or Viseu, rent is much lower. A one-bedroom apartment can cost between €400 and €600 per month. These areas offer quiet living and more savings. Therefore, if you’re asking what is the cost of living in Portugal? Small towns give the best value for your money.
No matter where you live, housing plays a big role in the cost of living in Portugal. So, pick the place that fits both your lifestyle and your budget. Take time to explore our properties to find options that match what you need and what you can afford.
Food in Portugal is tasty and affordable. Whether you cook at home or eat out, meals are a big part of the cost of living in Portugal.
Groceries are cheaper than in many other countries. For instance, a liter of milk costs around €0.90. Bread is about €1.20, and a dozen eggs are close to €2.70. Apples are around €2 per kilo. A single person usually spends €30 to €50 per week. These low costs help reduce monthly spending for those watching the cost of living in Portugal.
Many people shop at local outdoor markets. Therefore, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and bread for less than at the supermarket. Oranges cost about €1.70 per kilo. This is a smart way to save money on daily items and enjoy fresher food. It’s also a great choice if you’re focused on a healthy lifestyle.
Eating out in Portugal is easy on the wallet. So, a full lunch menu with soup, bread, and a drink costs about €8 to €12. Dinner for two at a small restaurant may cost just €20. A simple coffee is often only €1. If you’re wondering, what’s the cost of living in Portugal, this is where you’ll likely save the most.
Meals are both affordable and enjoyable. For many, these savings on food bring down the cost of living in Portugal each month. When you add it all up, it’s easy to see why people ask what is cost of living in Portugal, and often feel pleasantly surprised.
Your home bills in Portugal include power, water, heating, garbage, and internet. That is to say, these monthly costs are important when planning your total cost of living in Portugal.
Electricity costs depend on your usage. In summer, bills are lower—around €40–€60. But in winter, with heating, you may spend €100 or more. Also, if you use air conditioning, that adds extra too.
Water bills are usually low. Most people pay between €20 and €30 each month. Therefore, this covers showers, dishes, and laundry. It may be more if you live in a larger home or have more people.
Some homes use gas heaters, others use electric ones. Heating in cold months adds about €20–€60 to your bills. Also, many homes in Portugal don’t have central heating, so this saves money.
Trash collection is often part of your water bill or local taxes. You don’t usually see it as a separate charge. It adds around €5–€10 per month to your total.
Home internet is fast and easy to set up. A basic plan with Wi‑Fi costs around €30–€40 per month. Some plans also include TV and a landline phone.
Altogether, utilities help shape the cost of living in Portugal per month, especially when added to rent and food. These bills are often lower than in the US or UK.
So, when people ask about the average cost of living in Portugal, utilities are one of the easiest parts to plan. They stay affordable and steady, making monthly budgets easier to manage.
Getting around Portugal is simple and affordable. Whether you take the metro, ride a bus, or drive, travel costs are a big part of your cost of living in Portugal.
Public transport works well in most cities. A monthly pass in Lisbon or Porto costs about €40. It includes buses, trams, and metro rides. So, for someone who doesn’t drive, this is a smart and low-cost way to travel. This helps lower the cost of living in Portugal for single person who depends on daily transit.
Owning a car adds more to your budget. Gas costs around €1.80 per liter. You also pay for insurance, tolls, parking, and repairs. Together, it can reach over €200 each month. Also, driving in city centers is often harder too, due to traffic and narrow roads.
Apps like Uber and Bolt are popular in big cities. A short trip might cost €5 to €7. Longer rides can go up to €15 or more. Therefore, it’s a useful option when buses don’t run or if you’re in a rush.
So if you’ve been wondering what is the cost of living in Portugal? Your travel habits will change the answer. Public transport keeps things low, while owning a car will raise your monthly bills.
Healthcare in Portugal is known for being affordable and high quality. Whether you choose public or private services, both play a role in your monthly cost of living in Portugal.
Public healthcare is open to residents and offers low costs. A basic doctor visit costs around €5 to €10. Emergency room visits can be €15 to €20. Services are reliable, but some areas have long wait times. Therefore, this is helpful when estimating what’s the cost of living in Portugal, especially for people on a tight budget.
Private healthcare is faster and offers more comfort. Therefore, many people get health insurance to cover costs at private clinics.
Insurance often lowers those prices. Though more expensive, private care gives quick access and more options. Your choice between public and private care changes how much you spend. Medical expenses play an important role when people ask what is cost of living in Portugal.
Portugal is full of fun things to do that don’t cost much. So, from movies to museums, enjoying life fits well into your monthly cost of living in Portugal.
A movie ticket costs about €7 to €10. A meal at a simple restaurant is around €10 to €15. Drinks at a café or bar are usually €2 to €3. As a result, this makes going out with friends or family affordable and easy to enjoy regularly.
Joining a gym in Portugal isn’t expensive. That is to say, you’ll find memberships for about €25 to €50 per month. Some places even include yoga or fitness classes. Many public parks also have free outdoor gyms.
Portugal’s beaches are free, clean, and easy to access. For instance, you can swim, walk, or relax with no cost at all. The country also has parks and hiking trails, making outdoor fun an easy way to stay active.
Museums usually charge €5 to €10. Many offer free entry on special days. You can also find live music and festivals throughout the year. These experiences add fun to life without adding stress to your wallet, making the cost of living in Portugal per month feel more manageable.
Many people find the average cost of living in Portugal feels worth it because leisure activities stay affordable while offering a high quality of life. A helpful country guide in Portugal can also make it easier to find fun, low-cost ways to enjoy your new home.
Portugal offers a great lifestyle without high expenses. From food and rent to travel and fun, the cost of living in Portugal stays affordable for most people, even in the big cities.
If you’re thinking about moving, planning ahead makes a big difference. At International Property Alerts, we can help you learn more. If you have any questions or want help with your next step, feel free to contact us today.
The cost of living in Portugal is lower than in many Western countries. For instance, expenses like rent, food, and public transport are more affordable. Many expats enjoy a good lifestyle even on a smaller budget.
Rent depends on the city and location. In smaller towns, a one-bedroom apartment may cost €400–€600, while in Lisbon or Porto it ranges from €750–€1,200. Also, sharing a place can help lower your monthly housing costs.
No, food is quite affordable. Groceries for one person usually cost €200–€250 per month, and eating out is budget-friendly too. So, you can enjoy full meals for under €15 at local spots.
Monthly bills for electricity, water, and internet usually range from €130–€160. Also, heating can raise costs in winter, but overall, they stay manageable. These costs are lower than in the US or UK.
Public healthcare is affordable, with visits costing €5–€20. Private insurance plans start around €25 per month and offer faster service. Medical expenses are a key part of the cost of living in Portugal, but they remain reasonable.
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