City Guide 2026
Portugal
Living in Lisbon
Everything you need to know about cost of living, visas, taxes, climate, and lifestyle in Lisbon, Portugal.
Monthly Cost (Solo)
$2,096
Rent + groceries + bills
Safety Score
67/100
Moderate
Avg Temperature
17°C
63°F average
Tourist Visa
90 days
DN visa available
Internet Speed
180 Mbps
Fast
Cost of Living in Lisbon
Rent Prices (USD/month)
| Apartment | City Center | Outside Center |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 | $975 |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,250 | $2,113 |
Source: Numbeo, crowd-sourced data.
Groceries
$325/month
Healthcare
$83/month
Utilities
$148/month
Transport
$40/month
Climate in Lisbon
Monthly Average Temperature (°C)
Jan
11.6°
Feb
12.5°
Mar
14.7°
Apr
15.9°
May
18°
Jun
20.6°
Jul
22.4°
Aug
22.6°
Sep
21.2°
Oct
18.3°
Nov
14.6°
Dec
12.2°
Air Quality (AQI)
35
Good
Avg Rain Days/mo
8
days per month
Beach Distance
0 km
to nearest coast
Mountains
25 km
to nearest range
Lifestyle in Lisbon
Walkability
82/100
Internet Speed
180 Mbps
Cultural Score
70/100
Nightlife
85/100
Outdoor Activities
48/100
English Proficiency
80/100
Expat Community
large
Transit Quality
good
Coworking Spaces
3+
LGBTQ+ Friendly
good
Tax Overview in Portugal
Tax System
Worldwide (taxes global income)
Tax residency threshold: 183 days/year · Treaty network: good
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Capital Gains (Long-term) | 28% |
| Capital Gains (Short-term) | 28% |
| Dividend Tax | 28% |
| Interest Income | 28% |
| Wealth Tax | None |
| Crypto Gains | 28% |
| Exit Tax | No |
| Estate Tax | No |
Special Regime: Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) / NHR 2.0
Tax rates are estimates. Consult a qualified tax advisor for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Lisbon?
A comfortable solo lifestyle in Lisbon costs approximately $2,096-3,354/month for a single person or couple, covering housing in the city center, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and transport. Rent for a 1-bedroom in the center averages $1,500/month.
Is Lisbon safe for expats?
Lisbon has a safety index of 67/100 (higher is safer). Lisbon has moderate safety levels. Standard precautions are recommended, especially at night in less-trafficked areas. Healthcare quality is rated 80/100.
What is the weather like in Lisbon?
Lisbon has an average annual temperature of 17°C (63°F). The warmest months reach 22.6°C and the coolest drop to 11.6°C. Air quality is good with an average AQI of 35.
What is the internet speed in Lisbon?
Average internet speed in Lisbon is 180 Mbps, which is excellent for remote work and video calls. There are 3+ coworking spaces available.
What taxes will I pay living in Portugal?
Portugal uses a worldwide tax system. Capital gains are taxed at 28% (long-term) and dividends at 28%. There is no wealth tax. Tax residency kicks in after 183 days/year. A special regime (Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI) / NHR 2.0) may offer reduced rates.
Can I get a digital nomad visa in Lisbon?
Yes, Portugal offers a digital nomad visa valid for 12 months. The residency pathway is: 5 years of legal residence.
Is Lisbon good for digital nomads?
Lisbon has fast internet at 180 Mbps, a large expat community, and 3+ coworking spaces. English proficiency is high at 80/100. The cost of living index is 52/100 (NYC = 100), making it relatively expensive for remote workers.
Can You Retire on $X in Lisbon?
Run the FIRE math for Lisbon against the most-searched portfolio milestones — honest yes/no/tight verdicts with the numbers behind them.
Compare Lisbon with other cities
See what your money actually buys across housing, food, healthcare, and more with our lifestyle purchasing power tool.