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Cost of Living in Lisbon, Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Lisbon

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 16, 2024

Summary: The cost of living in Lisbon, Portugal is generally considered to be quite reasonable. A nice one bedroom apartment in Lisbon can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Lisbon is usually around $20 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Lisbon high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Lisbon, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Lisbon is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in other major European cities. Eating out in restaurants is also relatively affordable, with a meal for two people costing around €30. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively inexpensive. Overall, Lisbon is a great place to live for those looking for a good quality of life at an affordable price," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

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Will I save money living in Lisbon?

"Living in Lisbon can be more affordable than living in the United States. The cost of living in Lisbon is generally lower than in the US, with rent, groceries, and transportation being significantly cheaper. Additionally, Portugal has a lower tax rate than the US, which can help to reduce overall expenses," said one expat in Lisbon.

What is the average cost of housing in Lisbon?

If you are thinking about moving to Lisbon, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Lisbon can vary greatly depending on the area and type of accommodation. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Lisbon is around €800 to €1,200 per month, while the average cost of buying a property is around €3,000 to €4,000 per square meter. Prices can be higher or lower depending on the location and amenities," said one expat in Lisbon.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Lisbon?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Lisbon can range from around $800 to $1,500 per month, depending on the location and amenities. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $1,200 to $2,000 per month, again depending on the location and amenities," commented one expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Lisbon what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Lisbon typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and dishwasher. Additionally, some properties may include a microwave, toaster, and coffee maker," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

Graca in Lisbon
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