Cost of Living in Portugal (for Digital Nomads & Remote Workers)
💶 How Much Does It Cost to Live in Portugal as a Remote Worker?
Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe — especially for digital nomads and freelancers earning in stronger currencies. While costs vary by city and lifestyle, it’s possible to live comfortably on a modest budget without sacrificing quality of life.
Whether you’re working remotely from Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, or the islands, here’s what you can expect.
Monthly Cost Breakdown (Estimated Ranges)
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR apartment) | €600 – €1,200 | Varies by city: Lisbon is the most expensive |
| Utilities & Wi-Fi | €60 – €120 | Includes electricity, water, internet |
| Groceries | €150 – €300 | Local markets help you save more |
| Dining Out | €100 – €250 | Mid-range restaurants & local cafés |
| Coworking Space | €100 – €200 | Monthly pass; some offer day/week options |
| Public Transport | €30 – €50 | City passes are affordable and reliable |
| SIM/Data Plan | €10 – €25 | Prepaid plans with Vodafone, MEO, or NOS |
| Entertainment & Extras | €50 – €150 | Gym, streaming, weekend trips, etc. |
💡 Average digital nomad total per month: €1,100 – €2,000
City-by-City Price Differences
Lisbon: Higher rent, more coworking options, vibrant city life
Porto: Slightly cheaper rent, artsy vibe, growing nomad scene
Lagos (Algarve): Seasonal price changes, beach lifestyle
Braga/Coimbra: Budget-friendly, especially for long-term stays
Madeira/Azores: Moderate cost; island import prices may be higher
How to Save Money as a Remote Worker in Portugal
Rent outside the city center or share housing
Use public transport instead of owning a car
Shop at local markets instead of supermarkets
Take advantage of café Wi-Fi if coworking isn’t needed daily
Buy prepaid SIMs with data for flexible mobile use
🔍 Example Budgets
Modest Budget (~€1,200/month):
Shared apartment in Porto or Braga
Public transport only
Cook most meals
Occasional coworking
Comfort Budget (~€1,700/month):
Private 1BR apartment in Lisbon
Coworking membership
Regular meals out and weekend travel
SIM, VPN, and entertainment subscriptions
Free Cost Planning Tool
Want to build your own custom budget?
📥 Download our Cost of Living Spreadsheet to plan your monthly expenses and compare cities side-by-side.