Are you a student thinking about studying in Portugal? Understanding the cost of living in Portugal will help you plan your budget accordingly. Portugal is known for its beautiful cities, rich culture, and affordable lifestyle compared to many other European countries.
However, knowing how much things like accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials will cost can help you make smart financial decisions. In this guide, we will give you a simple overview of what to expect and how to manage your expenses effectively while studying in Portugal.
Table of contents
- What is the Cost of Living in Portugal?
- Accommodation Costs in Portugal
- Utility Costs in Portugal
- Food & Groceries Costs in Portugal
- Transportation Costs
- Entertainment and Leisure Costs
- Cost of Studying in Portugal
- Things to Consider When Moving to Portugal
- Tips for Saving Money in Portugal
- FAQs on Cost of Living in Portugal
What is the Cost of Living in Portugal?
The cost of living in Portugal is around EUR 1,309, which is 1.25 times higher than the world average. Portugal ranks 40th out of 197 countries for cost of living. However, it is still one of the best places to live, ranking 38th for overall quality of life. Portugal offers a great lifestyle with beautiful views, rich culture, and affordable living compared to other Western European countries. Here is a breakdown of the cost of living in Portugal. Keep reading for all the details.
| Category | Approx Costs |
| Cost with Rent | EUR 1400 |
| Rent (outside the city centre) | EUR 727.87 |
| Basic Utilities | EUR 111.50 |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | EUR 10 |
| Local Transportation (Monthly pass) | EUR 40 |
Accommodation Costs in Portugal
The average rental costs in Portugal are significantly lower compared to countries like France and the Netherlands. However, like any other country, rental prices in Portugal vary based on the location. Portugal boasts many beautiful cities where you can find affordable rental apartments with ease. Here is a general breakdown:
| Apartment Type | Approx Price (EUR) |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city Center, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | 803 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment, 40 m2 or 430 ft2 | 643 |
| 3 bedroom apartment in city Center, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | 1,497 |
| Cheap 3 bedroom apartment, 80 m2 or 860 ft2 | 1,131 |
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Utility Costs in Portugal
In Portugal, basic utilities like electricity, water, heating, and garbage usually cost between EUR 100 to EUR 150 per month. Internet services typically range from EUR 40 to EUR 80. These costs can vary depending on where you live and the size of your home. Below is the table showing the average utility bill:
| Details | Approx Cost / Month |
| Utility Bill one person, electricity, heating, water, etc. | EUR 73.20 |
| Utility Bill for a Family, electricity, heating, water, etc. | EUR 113 |
| Internet plan, 50 Mbps+ 1 month unlimited | EUR 40.30 |
Food & Groceries Costs in Portugal
In Portugal, you can enjoy a tasty lunch for around EUR 10.9, with dishes like bacalhau or grilled fish. A dinner for two at a restaurant costs about EUR 41.5, offering seafood, stews, and desserts. If you want something quick, a fast food meal costs about EUR 8.51. Portugal offers delicious food at great prices for all kinds of meals.
However, as a student, it’s important to manage your Cost of Living in Portugal, so we recommend cooking at home to save money and enjoy healthy, homemade meals. To help you out, here’s a table that shows the cost of groceries in Portugal so you can get an idea of what to expect.
| Item | Approx Price (EUR) |
| Milk (1 L or 1 qt) | 1 |
| Bread (0.5 kg or 1.1 lb) | 1.31 |
| Rice (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 1.43 |
| Eggs (x12) | 2.98 |
| Cheese (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 10.4 |
| Chicken Breast (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 7.13 |
| Round Steak (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 12.9 |
| Apples (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 2.16 |
| Banana (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 1.33 |
| Oranges (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 1.76 |
| Tomato (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 2.38 |
| Potato (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 1.53 |
| Onion (1 kg or 2.2 lb) | 1.82 |
| Water (1 L or 1 qt) | 0.49 |
| Coca-Cola / Pepsi (2 L or 67.6 fl oz) | 2.3 |
| Cold medicine (1 week) | 6.11 |
| Hair Shampoo | 4.5 |
| Toilet paper (4 rolls) | 1.98 |
| Toothpaste (1 tube) | 2.39 |
Transportation Costs
The best way to travel around Portugal is by using the public transit system. In Lisbon, a monthly metro pass costs around EUR 40. Transportation expenses are included in the overall cost of living in Portugal, as outlined in the table below:
| Mode of Transport | Approx Monthly Cost |
| Local transport ticket | EUR 2.07 |
| Monthly ticket local transport | EUR 38 |
| Taxi Ride, 8 km or 5 mi | EUR 11.60 |
| Gas / Petrol, 1 L or 0.26 gal | EUR 1.81 |
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Entertainment and Leisure Costs
Living in Portugal as a student isn’t just about paying for essentials like rent and groceries—you’ll also want to have fun and enjoy your time there! Portugal offers plenty of opportunities for recreation, including beautiful parks, outdoor activities, local restaurants, and more. Here’s a breakdown of some entertainment and fun expenses you might want to plan for:
| Item | Approx Cost |
| Gym Membership, 1 month | EUR 38.9 |
| Cinema Ticket, 1 person | EUR 7.75 |
| Haircut, simple | EUR 11.8 |
| Brand Jeans | EUR 77.7 |
| Brand Sneakers | EUR 80 |
Cost of Studying in Portugal
The cost of studying in Portugal depends on the type and duration of the course, and tuition fees can vary across public universities. Along with the cost of living in Portugal, it can be tricky to figure out the average tuition fees. For your reference, we have provided the average tuition fees at universities in Portugal:
| Course Level | Average Tuition Fee |
| For Bachelor’s degrees | EUR 550 – 1,050 /year |
| For Master’s degrees | EUR 500 – 2,500 /year |
Things to Consider When Moving to Portugal
If you’re considering relocating to Portugal, it’s important to know that the country offers many advantages, such as a mild climate, beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast, and a relatively low cost of living compared to other European countries. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when moving to Portugal.
- Portugal offers a great quality of life with a low cost of living, which is perfect for students.
- Since Portugal is less credit card-friendly, bring an ATM card and withdraw euros to avoid inconvenience.
- The country’s long coastline offers stunning views and a chance for students to enjoy outdoor activities without spending much.
- Fresh seafood is a must-try in Portugal, offering delicious and affordable options for students.
- Walking around cities is a great way to explore on a budget and experience local life.
- Many places don’t accept cards, so always carry cash, especially for small expenses like coffee or snacks.
- Visiting Portugal off-season can help you save on accommodation and other travel expenses.
Tips for Saving Money in Portugal
The cost of living in Portugal can be relatively affordable, especially if you follow some smart money-saving tips. From dining at local restaurants to using public transportation, there are many ways to cut costs while enjoying life in this beautiful country. Here are some simple tips to help you save money:
- Choose Affordable Accommodation: Consider living in smaller towns or rural areas instead of big cities like Lisbon or Porto to reduce rent costs.
- Shop Local: Buy fresh produce and goods from local markets rather than supermarkets. Local products are often more affordable and of better quality.
- Use Public Transportation: Portugal has an excellent public transport system. Utilize buses, trains, and trams to save on taxi or car rental costs.
- Cook at Home: Eating out can be expensive. Save money by cooking at home, especially by taking advantage of local ingredients that are often cheaper.
- Take Advantage of Free Activities: Explore free activities such as hiking in scenic areas, visiting parks, or enjoying the beautiful beaches.
- Use Price Comparison Apps: Before making any purchase, use price comparison apps to find the best deals on products or services.
Ultimately, the cost of living in Portugal can be affordable if you make smart choices. By enjoying local food, using public transport, and shopping at markets, you can save money while experiencing the beauty and culture of the country. With a few simple adjustments, you can make the most of your budget in Portugal.
We hope you enjoyed reading our blog on the cost of living in Portugal. For a stress-free stay during your study abroad adventure, choose Fly Homes. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal student accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Portugal
The average cost of living in Portugal is approximately EUR 1,309 per month, which is about 1.25 times higher than the world average. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and other essentials.
The cost of living in Portugal are lower than in the US. Almost everything, including food, medicine, transportation, and real estate, is affordable.
Rent in Portugal can vary depending on the location. On average, renting an apartment outside the city center will cost about EUR 727.87 per month. If you choose to live in the city center, the rent will be higher.
Portugal offers a lower cost of living than many Western European countries, making it an attractive option for students and expats. While countries like France, the UK, and the Netherlands have higher living costs, Portugal remains affordable in terms of rent, food, and transportation. The overall quality of life is high, with access to beautiful beaches, a mild climate, and a rich cultural heritage.
Yes, Portugal has an excellent and affordable public transportation system. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have well-connected metro, tram, and bus networks, with a monthly pass for public transportation typically costing around EUR 40.
Students in Portugal can save money by adopting a few smart strategies. Cooking at home instead of eating out can help cut food costs. Shopping at local markets rather than supermarkets often results in cheaper prices for fresh produce. Public transportation is affordable, so using buses, trams, or metro stations is a cost-effective way to travel around.
Living in small towns or rural areas of Portugal can be more affordable than living in major cities like Lisbon or Porto. Rent, utilities, and food costs are typically lower in smaller towns. However, larger cities offer more amenities, job opportunities, and entertainment options.
Portugal offers a great quality of life, with its mild climate, stunning beaches, and affordable cost of living. The country is known for its relaxed pace of life, rich cultural history, and beautiful landscapes.
Lisbon is the most expensive city in Portugal, with higher rent and living costs compared to other cities. However, Lisbon also offers more job opportunities, cultural events, and entertainment options. Cities like Porto or Coimbra have lower living costs and are still vibrant places to live and study, offering a good balance of affordability and quality of life.
To save on accommodation costs in Portugal, consider living in smaller towns or areas outside the city center. Rent in these areas is significantly cheaper than in major urban hubs like Lisbon or Porto. Additionally, sharing an apartment with others can help reduce costs. Many students also choose to rent rooms in shared apartments or houses, which can further cut expenses.
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