If you’re planning to move to Portugal, two cities will likely be at the top of your list: Lisbon and Porto. While both offer charm, history, and lifestyle benefits, their cost of living can differ significantly. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences in expenses between Lisbon and Porto in 2025—from rent to groceries, transportation, and beyond.
📍 Location and Lifestyle Overview
Lisbon is Portugal’s capital, known for its vibrant energy, international community, and coastal location. It’s a bustling metropolis with higher tourist flow, more job opportunities, and a larger expat presence.
Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city, located in the north. It’s more relaxed, traditional, and affordable, with a growing digital nomad scene and a rich cultural identity.
🏠 Rent Comparison
Rent is the biggest differentiator between the two cities.
- Lisbon: €1,000–€1,800/month for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center.
- Porto: €800–€1,400/month for a similar apartment in the city center.
- Outside city center: Lisbon: €700–€1,200 | Porto: €600–€1,000.
🍽️ Food & Grocery Costs
Grocery prices are fairly similar across both cities, but eating out tends to be more affordable in Porto.
- Groceries (monthly): Lisbon: €180–€250 | Porto: €160–€230.
- Casual dining (per meal): Lisbon: €15–€25 | Porto: €10–€18.
- Coffee in a café: Lisbon: €1.80 | Porto: €1.50.
🚇 Transportation Costs
Both cities have efficient public transportation, but Lisbon’s network is larger and slightly more expensive.
- Monthly transport pass: Lisbon: €40–€50 | Porto: €30–€40.
- Taxi (per km): Lisbon: €0.50–€0.60 | Porto: €0.45–€0.55.
- Uber/Base fare: Lisbon: €2.75 | Porto: €2.50.
🔌 Utilities & Internet
Utilities are very similar in both cities, although new buildings in Lisbon may have more energy-efficient systems.
- Electricity, water, etc.: €90–€140/month in both cities.
- High-speed internet: €30–€40/month.
🏥 Healthcare & Insurance
Both Lisbon and Porto offer access to excellent public and private healthcare.
- Private insurance: €30–€80/month (depending on age and coverage).
- Doctor consultation (private): €40–€60 per visit.
🎭 Entertainment & Lifestyle
Lisbon offers more nightlife and international events, while Porto has a cozier, more traditional feel. Entertainment costs are generally similar.
- Cinema ticket: €7–€10 in both cities.
- Gym membership: Lisbon: €35–€60 | Porto: €30–€50.
- Fitness class: €8–€12/session in both cities.
💸 Final Verdict: Lisbon or Porto?
If you want a fast-paced, cosmopolitan lifestyle with more job options and don’t mind paying extra, Lisbon might be your choice. But if you’re looking for a more affordable city with traditional charm, a slower pace, and still plenty of amenities, Porto offers great value for money.
Both cities are fantastic places to live. Your choice should depend on your budget, work situation, and lifestyle preferences.
📽️ Want to Learn More?
If you’re deciding between Lisbon and Porto, here’s a great video comparing both cities in detail: