# How Much Does Living in Portugal Cost, City by City? (2026)

> Compare living costs in Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and Braga: rent, utilities, transport, groceries and salaries in Portugal in 2026.

By Jules de Bruin · URL: https://www.how-to-portugal.com/moving/cost-of-living-by-city

**Lisbon** is the most expensive city in Portugal, followed by **Porto**. **Coimbra** and **Braga** offer lower rents and a quieter lifestyle. The 2026 minimum wage is **EUR 920 per month**; a comfortable single budget in Lisbon often starts around EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,500 per month after rent.

## How Much Does It Cost to Live in Lisbon?

Lisbon has the highest rents and restaurant prices. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can rent for EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,800 per month. Suburbs and the metropolitan area reduce rent significantly.

## How Much Does It Cost to Live in Porto?

Porto is cheaper than Lisbon but still lively. Central one-bedroom rents often range from EUR 900 to EUR 1,400 per month. The city has a growing tech sector and strong expat community.

Illustration of moving boxes, a map pin, and a key, for moving to and settling into a Portuguese city.Boxes, address, keys: moving to your Portuguese city.

## How Much Does It Cost to Live in Coimbra?

Coimbra is a university city with lower rents and a compact centre. One-bedroom apartments can be found from around EUR 600 to EUR 900 per month.

## How Much Does It Cost to Live in Braga?

Braga is one of the most affordable major cities. Central one-bedroom rents often range from EUR 550 to EUR 850 per month, making it attractive for remote workers and families.

## What Are Typical Monthly Expenses?

| Expense | Typical monthly range |
| --- | --- |
| Utilities (small apartment) | EUR 100 - EUR 180 |
| Public transport pass | EUR 30 - EUR 50 |
| Mobile plan | EUR 5 - EUR 20 |
| Groceries (one person) | EUR 200 - EUR 350 |
Ranges are indicative and vary by consumption, household size and season.

## How Do Salaries Compare to Living Costs?

The 2026 minimum wage is EUR 920 per month. Entry-level tech and shared-service roles in Lisbon and Porto often start between EUR 1,200 and EUR 1,800 gross per month. A single person can live outside Lisbon on a minimum wage, but Lisbon itself requires a higher income for comfort.

## Related Guides

[### Housing Rent by city and how to search.](/moving/housing)[### Job Platforms Find work that matches your budget.](/moving/job-platforms)[### Work Permit Routes How to work legally in Portugal.](/moving/work-permit-routes)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Which Portuguese city is cheapest to live in?

Among the major cities, Braga and Coimbra are generally cheaper than Porto, and Porto is cheaper than Lisbon.

### How much do you need to live comfortably in Lisbon?

A single person typically needs at least EUR 1,200 to EUR 1,500 per month after rent for a modest lifestyle, plus rent.

### Are salaries higher in Lisbon?

Lisbon and Porto offer the highest salaries, especially in tech, finance and multinational services, but living costs are also highest there.

### How much are utilities in Portugal?

Electricity, gas, water and waste for a small apartment typically range from EUR 100 to EUR 180 per month, depending on usage and season.

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Source: https://www.how-to-portugal.com/moving/cost-of-living-by-city
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