Cost of Living in Portugal — Practical Guide 2026

In 2026, the cost of living in Portugal for French expatriates is about 30% lower than in France. The average monthly expenses for a single person amount to 1,200 euros, including housing, food, and transportation. This cost difference makes Portugal particularly attractive for those looking to maximize their purchasing power.

Cost of living in Portugal for French expatriates in 2026: an overview

The cost of living in Portugal for French expatriates in 2026 is about 30% lower than in France. A single person spends an average of 1,200€ per month, excluding rent. With a rent of 850€ for a studio in Lisbon, the total monthly budget reaches 2,050€.

Portugal remains a popular destination for expatriates, thanks to a more affordable cost of living than in many European countries. On average, living in Portugal costs about 30% less than in France, according to 2026 data. This reduction is particularly noticeable in the areas of housing, food, and transportation. The pleasant climate, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes also attract many foreigners each year.

Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer a high quality of life, with modern infrastructure and easy access to amenities. However, the key to maximizing this experience lies in good financial management. It is crucial to have a clear understanding of expenses to avoid surprises. Let's explore in more detail the main expense categories for expatriates living in Portugal.

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What is the cost of housing for expatriates in Portugal?

Housing represents a significant portion of expatriates' budgets. In 2026, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central Lisbon is about 900 EUR per month, compared to 650 EUR for peripheral neighborhoods. In Porto, rents are slightly lower, with prices around 750 EUR in the city center. These cities also offer many co-living options, which can significantly reduce housing costs.

• Lisbon (center): 900 EUR/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
• Lisbon (periphery): 650 EUR/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
• Porto (center): 750 EUR/month for a 1-bedroom apartment

💡 Good to know

Expatriates can save by choosing co-living arrangements or living in smaller cities where rents are generally lower. For example, in Coimbra or Braga, rents can be up to 30% cheaper than in Lisbon.

In addition to typically affordable rents, expatriates must also consider additional costs related to housing, such as home insurance, maintenance fees, and potentially condominium charges. Generally, these extra costs can add about 100 to 150 EUR to the monthly budget.

Food: how much do we spend on eating in Portugal?

The cost of food in Portugal is also attractive for expatriates. In 2026, a meal in an average restaurant costs about 15 EUR. For monthly groceries, a couple can expect to spend between 250 and 350 EUR. This budget includes staple products such as milk, bread, rice, fruits and vegetables, as well as meat and fish.

• Meal at a restaurant: 15 EUR
• Monthly groceries for a couple: 250-350 EUR

Supermarkets such as Continente, Pingo Doce, and Lidl offer a wide variety of products at competitive prices. For fresh produce enthusiasts, local markets are an excellent option, allowing purchases directly from producers.

✅ Practical tip

Expatriates can save on food by prioritizing local markets and taking advantage of weekly promotional offers from supermarkets.

Transportation: what are the options for getting around in Portugal?

Public transportation in Portugal is both affordable and efficient. In 2026, a monthly public transport pass in Lisbon costs about 40 EUR. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber remain accessible as well, with an average fare of 1 EUR per kilometer. This accessibility greatly facilitates daily commuting for expatriates.

• Monthly public transport pass Lisbon: 40 EUR
• Taxi/Uber fare: 1 EUR/km

⚠️ Attention

Rates may vary in summer in tourist areas. Be sure to check prices before traveling. Additionally, traffic jams can increase transportation costs if you choose to travel by taxi or Uber.

For those who prefer to drive, the cost of car insurance and gasoline is competitive compared to other European countries. In 2026, the average price of gasoline is about 1.60 EUR per liter, which can represent a significant expense if you frequently use your vehicle.

What other expenses should expatriates in Portugal anticipate?

In addition to housing, food, and transportation costs, expatriates should consider other expenses such as utilities and leisure activities. In 2026, monthly utility bills for an average apartment (water, electricity, gas) amount to about 100 EUR. Leisure options, such as movies or concerts, remain affordable, with tickets costing between 8 and 12 EUR.

• Monthly utilities: 100 EUR
• Movies/concerts: 8-12 EUR per ticket

Internet and mobile phone subscriptions are also very competitive, with high-speed internet plans costing about 30 EUR per month. Expatriates should also consider health insurance, which can vary depending on the coverage chosen.

How to optimize your budget as an expatriate in Portugal?

To manage your budget effectively, it is advisable to follow a few simple strategies. For example, shopping at local markets can reduce food costs. Prioritizing public transportation and free or low-cost activities can also help save money. Being mindful of leisure expenses and regularly comparing service offers is also essential to maximize your budget.

1. Choose local markets for food.
2. Use public transportation.
3. Participate in free or low-cost activities.

✅ Practical tip

Joining expatriate groups can provide tips for saving money and discovering free activities. These communities often offer service exchanges and low-cost social events.

Cost of living in Portugal for French expatriates in 2026: Is it still affordable?

In conclusion, the cost of living in Portugal in 2026 remains affordable for French expatriates, despite some increases in major cities. By planning carefully and adopting saving strategies, expatriates can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while enjoying the cultural richness of the country. With good financial management, expatriates can savor everything Portugal has to offer without compromising their quality of life.

Sources

• IEFP — Public Employment
• AIMA — Migrations and Asylum
• SNS — National Health Service
• Idealista Portugal
• CFE — Fund for French Abroad
• France Travail International