The Average Cost of Living in Portugal (2025): What You Need to Know
Portugal continues to attract people from around the world thanks to its mild climate, relaxed pace of life, and relatively affordable cost of living — especially compared to other Western European countries. However, how much you’ll spend depends a lot on where you choose to live.
In this post, we’ll break down the average cost of living in Portugal — including rent, food, transport, utilities, schools, and more — with a comparison between five key regions: Lisboa (Lisbon), Porto, Braga, Oeste, and the Algarve.
While Portugal remains more affordable than many of its European neighbors, prices have increased, especially in high-demand areas like Lisbon and the Algarve. If you’re considering relocating, it’s crucial to research local prices, weigh the quality of life, and look into available support networks or relocation assistance.
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant urban life, coastal relaxation, or a more affordable inland experience, Portugal has options to match a variety of budgets.
Whether you’re planning to retire, work, or start a new life in Portugal, rest assured—you’ll be in good hands when it comes to healthcare.
🏡 Rent
Rent prices vary dramatically depending on location, with Lisbon and the Algarve being the most expensive areas.
| City/Region | 1-Bed Apartment (City Center) | 3-Bed Apartment (Suburbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Lisboa | €1,200 – €1,700 | €1,600 – €2,300 |
| Porto | €900 – €1,300 | €1,300 – €1,800 |
| Braga | €600 – €900 | €900 – €1,300 |
| Oeste (e.g. Torres Vedras, Caldas da Rainha) | €700 – €1,000 | €1,000 – €1,500 |
| Algarve (e.g. Lagos, Faro) | €1,000 – €1,500 | €1,400 – €2,000 |
🛒 Food & Groceries
Grocery prices are quite stable across the country. A monthly grocery bill for a couple or small family is typically between €300–€500.
| Example Prices (2025) | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1L milk | €1.10 |
| 1kg chicken breast | €6.00 |
| 12 eggs | €3.00 |
| 1kg apples | €2.20 |
| Loaf of fresh bread | €1.80 |
Eating out? A lunch menu at a local restaurant can cost between €9–€12, while dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant is around €40–€60.
🔌 Utilities & Internet
Monthly utilities (electricity, gas, water) for a standard apartment average between €90–€150, depending on the season and household size.
| Service | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity/Gas/Water | €90–€150 |
| Internet (fiber, 200 Mbps+) | €30–€40 |
| Mobile phone plans | €10–€25 |
In colder parts of Portugal like Porto or Braga, winter heating costs can increase due to the lack of central heating in many homes.
🏫 Schools
Public schools in Portugal are free, but international and private schools can vary widely in cost.
| City/Region | Private Portuguese/ International School Tuition (annual) |
|---|---|
| Lisboa | €8,000 – €20,000 |
| Porto | €6,000 – €16,000 |
| Braga | €4,000 – €10,000 |
| Oeste (few options) | €5,000 – €12,000 |
| Algarve | €6,000 – €15,000 |
Enrollment fees, books, and lunches are often additional.
📍 Summary: Monthly Budget (Single Person)
| City/Region | Basic Monthly Budget (Rent + Essentials) |
|---|---|
| Lisboa | €1,800 – €2,400 |
| Porto | €1,500 – €2,000 |
| Braga | €1,100 – €1,500 |
| Oeste | €1,300 – €1,700 |
| Algarve | €1,600 – €2,300 (higher in summer) |
Final Thoughts
While Portugal remains more affordable than many of its European neighbors, prices have increased, especially in high-demand areas like Lisbon and the Algarve. If you’re considering relocating, it’s crucial to research local prices, weigh the quality of life, and look into available support networks or relocation assistance.
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant urban life, coastal relaxation, or a more affordable inland experience, Portugal has options to match a variety of budgets.
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