Portugal is one of the most attractive countries for tourists. The country is loved for its mild climate, comfortable warm weather, luxurious landscapes, golden beaches, green hills, picturesque mountains, and other unique corners. Life here is calm, measured, and carefree. So you can fully enjoy every moment.

But another reason why Portugal is so attractive to visitors and emigrants from different parts of the world is the high, high-quality, and affordable standard of living. In the country, you can make great money and at the same time significantly save on expenses. After all, the prices here are really the lowest in Western Europe.

Cost of living in Portugal

Moving to Portugal requires, first of all, careful budget planning. After all, it is important to consider every detail and prepare a reliable financial cushion. Therefore, we have prepared a small guide with prices for basic necessities, which will help you navigate the cost of living in the country.

Housing price

The cost of renting a house in Portugal starts from about $400 per month. The price depends on the area, city, district, etc. A small apartment in remote settlements will cost $200-$300. In more prestigious cities and districts, housing prices start at $500-$600. For example, renting a decent small apartment in Lisbon can cost $1,000.  While the house will cost about $1,800 or more.

More affordable real estate prices in the city of Porto, which is also a popular destination for expats. The cost of renting a small apartment in the center will cost $850. A three-bedroom apartment will cost about $1,450. In the suburbs of Porto, prices will be several hundred dollars lower.

Utility payments

Prices for utilities and other services in Portugal are considered quite low. Internet packages in the country usually cost between $30 and $40, and mobile communication costs $18. The cost of housing and communal services – including electricity, gas, water supply, and garbage collection – will range from $80-$140 per month. It is also important to consider that you will have to pay for the operation of the air conditioner. In Portugal, utility bills are mostly billed every two months.

Products and meals outside the home

The cost of food in Portugal is low. On average, about $200 is spent on food per month. For example, cereals, apples, oranges, bananas, potatoes, onions, and tomatoes will cost about less than $2 per kilogram in the country, and sometimes even less. Prices for milk and eggs range from 50 cents to $2. A kilogram of chicken will cost about $5, but beef will cost twice as much.

Food and drinks such as olive oil, wine, and seafood are also cheap here. After all, all this is produced in Portugal.  For example, a bottle of good local wine will cost $4 to $5, and domestic beer will cost $1 to $2 per bottle.

If you want to have lunch in a cafe, it will be enough to have from $5 to $50. A cup of cappuccino costs between $1 and $3. The cost of a typical lunch meal will range from $8 to $1. Fast food in the country costs a little more. In general, a good, hearty meal with several dishes and wine will cost $30.

Transport

Transport in the country is also relatively inexpensive.  For example, a one-time public transport ticket will cost less than $2, and a monthly ticket will cost about $40.

A taxi ride can cost $25, and a train ride between towns can cost up to $100.

If you choose between renting a car and buying it, it will be much cheaper to buy your own vehicle.  The cost of a used car will be about $2,000.

Additional costs

When planning the budget, it is important to take into account additional expenses: entertainment, excursions, classes, formalities, etc.

For example, sports classes can cost $12, a gym membership is $38, and a surfboard rental is $18.  You will have to pay about $25 for a guided tour, and $40 for a wine tasting.

One of the main hidden costs in Portugal is fees for certificates, documents, commissions, etc.

In particular, local banks may charge you a fee for any small mistake.

Healthcare

Portugal has a mixed healthcare system that includes public and private services. In general, medical care in state medical institutions is free. But you will have to pay to visit emergency departments, see a family doctor, or call an ambulance. The cost usually ranges from $6 to $22.

At the same time, it is important to take out medical insurance. But in Portugal, private insurance is quite cheap - from $22 to $55 per month. That is, you can pay from $440 per year for the basic plan, or choose full coverage insurance for $1,100 per year.

Taxes

Upon arrival in Portugal, expats must obtain two tax numbers, one for identification and one for social security. In Portugal, the income of citizens, residents, or non-residents is taxed.  The tax rate ranges from 14.5% to 48%.

Salaries in Portugal

The average salary in the country reaches about 2,750 euros per month.  The lowest salary in Portugal is 700 euros, and the highest is 12,300 euros.  Qualified specialists can earn a decent living in the country and afford a comfortable living.