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The Cost of Living in Lisbon, Portugal: A Comprehensive Guide

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Written by Kittenproperties

29.05.2023

Introduction

Lisbon, the beautiful capital of Portugal, has emerged as a highly sought-after location for expatriates, digital nomads, and tourists alike. With its enticing blend of history, culture, cuisine, and affordable living, it's no wonder why. But how much does it actually cost to live here? This article dives deep into the cost of living in Lisbon, Portugal, covering everyday needs, rent, property prices, transportation, and more.

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Everyday Needs

Food Expenses

Portuguese cuisine is renowned for its variety and flavors. When it comes to groceries, Lisbon's prices are quite reasonable. Expect to spend around €200-€300 per month for groceries per person, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits.

Utilities

The average utility bill for a two-bedroom apartment in Lisbon ranges from €100 to €150 per month. This includes electricity, water, gas, and trash services.

Internet and Mobile Plans

An unlimited broadband internet connection typically costs between €30 and €50 per month. A mobile plan with a good data package costs approximately €20 per month.

Accommodation Expenses

Rent

Rental prices vary depending on the location and size of the property. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center would cost around €700-€1000 per month, while in the outskirts, it might cost between €500-€700.

Buying Property

Purchasing property in Lisbon is a viable option if you plan to stay long-term. The average price per square meter in the city center ranges from €3,500 to €5,000. However, property prices can escalate quickly in prime locations.

Transportation Costs

Public Transportation

Lisbon boasts a well-organized public transportation network comprising trams, buses, and the metro. A monthly transportation pass costs around €40.

Owning a Car

Owning a car in Lisbon isn't necessary, but if you prefer, expect to pay €20,000 to €30,000 for a new economy car. Fuel prices are relatively high, averaging €1.5 per liter.

Healthcare and Leisure Activities

Healthcare

Portugal has a high-quality healthcare system. Private health insurance costs around €50-€100 per month, depending on the level of coverage.

Leisure Activities

From visiting historic sites to dining in cozy restaurants, Lisbon offers numerous leisure activities. A meal in a mid-range restaurant would cost around €30 per person, while a monthly gym membership is around €30-€50.

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Clothing and Personal Care

Clothing prices vary depending on the brands you prefer. However, on average, a pair of jeans costs around €75, while a summer dress in a chain store is about €35. As for personal care, expect to spend about €30-€50 monthly on items like toiletries and cosmetics.

Household Essentials

For basic home necessities such as cleaning supplies and kitchenware, you'll need to budget around €25-€40 per month.

Delving Deeper into Accommodation

Shared Housing

For those seeking to lower their housing costs, shared housing is a popular option. You can expect to pay around €300-€500 per month for a room in a shared apartment in the city center.

Home Insurance

Although not mandatory, home insurance provides peace of mind. The average cost ranges from €10 to €30 per month, based on the size and location of the property and the level of coverage.

Getting Around Lisbon

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

While public transportation is efficient, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. The starting tariff for taxis is around €3.50, and the average Uber ride within the city costs about €7.

Bicycles and Scooters

If you're environmentally conscious or simply enjoy being active, Lisbon is quite bike and scooter-friendly. Monthly bike rental costs average around €40, while electric scooters cost about €0.15 per minute.

Entertainment and Leisure

Arts and Culture

Lisbon is rich in history and culture, and there's always something to explore. Entry fees for museums and historical sites average €10. If you're a movie buff, a cinema ticket costs around €7.

Outdoor Activities

From surfing lessons costing about €20 per hour to more relaxed beach picnics, Lisbon's coastal location offers a wealth of outdoor activities.

Dining and Nightlife

Lisbon's culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. You could be paying €1-€2 for a traditional Pastel de Nata (Portuguese custard tart) at a local bakery, or €100 for a high-end dining experience. As for nightlife, a pint of beer costs around €2.50, and cocktails in clubs can range from €5 to €10.

Overall Cost of Living Index

According to Numbeo, as of May 2023, the cost of living index in Lisbon is 56.37. This indicates that living in Lisbon is approximately 43.63% cheaper than in New York City.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lisbon offers an exceptional quality of life at a relatively affordable cost, making it an attractive option for many. The city successfully balances history with modernity, offering an unparalleled experience to its residents.Living in Lisbon provides an opportunity to enjoy a rich, culturally diverse lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of many other European capitals. From basic needs to entertainment and leisure activities, the city offers a multitude of options to suit every budget.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the average cost of living for a single person in Lisbon?

The average cost of living in Lisbon for a single person, excluding rent, is approximately €600-€800 per month.

2. Is Lisbon cheaper than other European capitals?

Yes, Lisbon is generally cheaper than most other European capitals when it comes to living costs.

3. Is healthcare in Lisbon expensive?

While healthcare costs in Lisbon are reasonable compared to other European cities, it's advisable to have private health insurance for comprehensive coverage.

4. What is the cost of education in Lisbon?

Public education is free in Portugal. However, the cost of international schools varies, typically ranging from €5,000 to €10,000 per year.

5. How much does a meal cost in Lisbon?

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €10, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is about €40.

6. How much can I expect to pay for health and fitness expenses?

A gym membership in Lisbon averages between €30 and €50 per month. Yoga and Pilates classes are similarly priced.

7.What is the average cost of childcare in Lisbon?

Childcare costs vary, but on average, you can expect to pay around €500-€600 per month for a full-time nursery.

8. Is it expensive to dine out in Lisbon?

Dining out in Lisbon can be quite affordable. You can get a decent meal for as low as €10, and a three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant would cost around €30.

9. How affordable is public transport in Lisbon?

Public transportation in Lisbon is very affordable. A monthly pass for unlimited travel costs around €40.

10. Is Lisbon a good place for digital nomads?

With its high-speed internet, affordable living costs, and vibrant social scene, Lisbon is increasingly becoming a popular choice for digital nomads.

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