🇵🇹 Lisbon vs Porto: Which Portuguese city is better for your wallet in 2026?

Thinking about relocating to Portugal for work? You’re not alone. With sunshine, friendly people, and great job opportunities for international talent, Portugal remains one of the top destinations to start your career abroad.

But here’s the real question:

Should you move to Lisbon or Porto?

Both cities are beautiful, vibrant and full of life — but they come with different price tags. Let’s break down the cost of living in Lisbon vs Porto in 2026, so you can make the right decision for your lifestyle and your salary.

🏡 Rent: Lisbon is more expensive — no surprise here

The biggest difference between Lisbon and Porto is rent.

Here’s what you can expect for a 1-bedroom apartment in 2026:

💡 If you’re on an entry-level salary, sharing a flat will make your life easier — especially in Lisbon. In Porto, it’s a bit more affordable to live solo, but flat-sharing is still the smartest choice if you want to save.

✨ Flat-sharing: real prices in Lisbon and Porto (2026)

If you’re moving abroad for your first job, you’re probably not renting a whole flat just yet.
And that’s totally normal — flat-sharing is the most popular (and practical) option for young professionals in Portugal.

Here’s what you’ll realistically pay in 2026:

📸 Real listings show rooms in Lisbon for €338–340/month, and rooms in Porto from just €290/month — all verified and with utilities included.

🛏️ In both cities, you’ll find:

• Private rooms in shared flats with 3–7 other people

• Bills included (electricity, water, Wi-Fi)

• Flexible contracts for internationals

• Locations close to metro lines and job hubs

💡 Some jobs at CityJobOffers even come with relocation packages or accommodation included, so you can focus on settling in — not apartment hunting.

⚡ Utilities & internet: pretty much the same

Whether you live in Lisbon or Porto, your basic bills (electricity, water, heating, waste collection) usually land between €100 and €150/month.

Fast internet (fiber) adds another €30–40/month.

👉 In short: utilities won’t make or break your budget — rent will.

🥖 Groceries & eating out: Porto is slightly cheaper

Day-to-day life feels very similar in both cities. But if you’re eating out regularly, you might notice that Porto is a little easier on your wallet.

• 🛒 Grocery shopping: around €250–300/month per person in both cities.

• ☕ Coffee: €1.20 in Lisbon, €1.00 in Porto.

• 🍽️ Local restaurant meal: €10–12 in Lisbon, €8–10 in Porto.

• 🍷 Dinner for two in a mid-range place: €45–60 in Lisbon, €35–50 in Porto.

💡 Pro tip: avoid tourist hotspots in Lisbon if you're eating out — prices jump quickly.

🚋 Transport: public transport is affordable in both cities

Portugal has one of the most affordable public transport systems in Europe.

• 🚇 Lisbon:

  • “Navegante” pass: €30/month (city) or €40/month (metropolitan area).

• 🚉 Porto:

  • “Andante” pass: from €30/month (depends on zones).

No matter where you move, €30–40/month gets you unlimited rides across buses, metros and trams. Super budget-friendly.

💸 Salary vs expenses: what’s realistic?

Minimum wage in Portugal is €870/month (2025) and expected to rise gradually. Many international jobs (especially with German, Dutch or Nordic languages) pay well above that — but the cost of living still matters.

If you’re earning around €1,300–1,600/month net in Lisbon:

• Renting your own flat? Tough.

• Sharing a flat? Much more doable.

• Saving money? Possible, but tight.

In Porto, the same salary gives you a bit more breathing room.

✅ Entry-level role + shared flat = balanced lifestyle in both cities.
✅ Mid-level salary = easier life in Porto, more fun options in Lisbon.

🆚 So… Lisbon or Porto?

Let’s wrap it up.

Choose Lisbon if:

• You love big cities and international vibes.

• You’re excited about concerts, events, and a faster pace.

• You don’t mind paying extra for location, lifestyle, and connections.

Choose Porto if:

• You want a more relaxed pace and more authentic feel.

• You’re looking to save a bit more from your salary.

• You prefer living alone or having a nicer flat for less.