Cost of Living in Portugal Compared to the U.S. and Canada
Many Americans & Canadians are interested in moving abroad to find better quality of life for lower cost than they can in the States. Portugal is an excellent option for anyone relocating to a foreign country for lower cost of living.
Portugal is a diverse country and costs depend on what part of the country you're in. For example, apartment rentals can vary from €100 per month to well over €1000. Take a look at the sample budgets below for a sense of the variety. Generally, costs will be higher on the coast and in major cities (Lisbon, Porto).
The StartAbroad Portugal Guide
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Visa, residency, and citizenship options for expats moving to Portugal
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Cost of living in Portugal compared to the U.S. and Canada
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Healthcare and health insurance for expats moving to Portugal
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What expats need to know about real estate when moving to Portugal
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Shipping, car purchase, and pet relocation for expats moving to Portugal
Portugal Cost of Living
Rent for a three bedroom apartment in Lisbon is 28% less than in Orlando
Groceries are 34% less in Porto than in Houston
Eating at a restaurant is 43% cheaper in the Algarve than in Los Angeles
data from numbeo.com
Portugal is a diverse country and costs depend on what part of the country you're in. For example, apartment rentals can vary from €100 per month to well over €1000. Generally, costs will be higher on the coast and in major cities (Lisbon, Porto).
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Food - Generally, food is quite affordable. A lunch menu (menu do dia) can cost under €5, and is typically between €5 and €12. A coffee might cost €0.50 in rural areas and rarely costs more than €1 in cities. Grocery shopping is also very affordable, particularly for non-imported fresh food.
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Transportation - Transportation is cheap - A metro ticket in Lisbon or Porto is under €2 and intercity train travel is typically around €20 for a 3 hour roundtrip journey. Buying a car, even a used car, can be expensive, particularly when compared with the US.
Utilities - Utilities are priced fairly high - a small apartment can expect to pay over €100 per month for water and electricity. Phone and internet packages are typically between €20 and €60 per month.
Insurance & Banking - Other major costs to consider include private health insurance, where costs can vary considerably. If you decide to open a Portuguese bank account you should expect to pay €5-10 per month in fees.
Sample Budgets
Sample Budget #1 - The Algarve
Please note that these sample budgets are directional only. The town you live in, changing prices, and your lifestyle will all influence your ultimate budget.
Living in the Algarve for Two People per Month (USD)
Rent, 2 bed house
$2000
Utilities (electric & water)
$96
Internet & phone
$73
Transportation (Transit pass)
$113
Groceries
$500
Eating out & Entertainment
$250
Gym membership for two
$113
Private health insurance for two
$312
Misc. (shopping, beauty, etc.)
$100
Total
$3457
Sample Budget #2 - Cascais
Please note that these sample budgets are directional only. The town you live in, changing prices, and your lifestyle will all influence your ultimate budget.
Living in the Cascais for Two People per Month (USD)
Rent, 2 bed condo in city center
$1475
Utilities (electric & water)
$100
Internet, phone, and cable
$80
Transportation (Transit pass)
$60
Groceries
$400
Eating out and entertainment
$300
Cleaning service (bi-weekly)
$50
Private health insurance for two
$260
Misc. (shopping, beauty, etc.)
$70
Total
$2795
Sample Budget #3 - Lisbon
Please note that these sample budgets are directional only. The town you live in, changing prices, and your lifestyle will all influence your ultimate budget.
Living in Lisbon for Two People per Month (USD)
Rent, 1 bed apartment, in suburbs
$705
Utilities (electric & water)
$100
Internet
$30
Transport (Metro + Longterm car rental & gas)
$260
Groceries
$235
Eating out and entertainment
$170
Private health insurance for two
$112
Misc. (shopping, beauty, etc.)
$50
Total
$1662