Thinking about moving to Lisbon? You’re not alone — Portugal’s capital draws expats with its hills, mild weather, and vibrant lifestyle.
Lisbon feels like a postcard that came to life — and then got Wi-Fi. With its red roofs, pastel facades, and endless miradouros, this city combines old-world charm with a rising digital nomad scene. If you’re thinking long-term, prepare for friendly locals, great food, and cobblestones that kill your sneakers.
Key Facts About Lisbon (Portugal)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | ~550,000 (city), ~2.8 million metro area |
| Language | Portuguese (official), English widely spoken in tourist and expat areas |
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Average Rent | €1,200–2,000/month (1-bedroom in good areas) |
| Average Net Salary | ~€1,300–2,000 |
| Health Insurance | Public + optional private (~€50–150/month) |
| Safety Level | High – generally safe, especially in central and residential areas |
| Public Transport | Well-developed: metro, trams, buses, ferries |
| Climate | Mediterranean – warm, dry summers and mild winters |
| Residence Permit / Long Stay | Via work, study, D7 passive income visa, Golden Visa, etc. |
| Education | International schools, top universities (ULisboa, NOVA) |
| Grocery Prices | Moderate |
| Access to Nature | Ocean, beaches, hills, nearby forests and parks |
| City Atmosphere | Creative, historic, laid-back, with a growing international community |
Renting in Lisbon: Popular, but Still Affordable (For Now)
Lisbon’s rental market has become more competitive since the remote work boom — but it’s still one of Western Europe’s more affordable capitals. You’ll find tiled apartments with balconies, light-filled lofts, and even renovated historic buildings.
Average monthly rent in 2025:
- Studio in Graça or Alcântara: €850–1,200
- 1-bedroom in Bairro Alto or Intendente: €1,200–1,800
- 2-bedroom in Príncipe Real or Avenidas Novas: €1,700–2,500
- Utilities: €100–150/month
- Internet: ~€30/month
- Deposit: 1–2 months of rent
Looking for verified listings? Explore long-term rentals in Lisbon — updated and filterable.
Residency and Visas: Portugal Is Expat-Friendly
Portugal offers several options for staying long-term:
- D7 Passive Income Visa – ideal for retirees, freelancers, and remote workers
- Digital Nomad Visa – for remote employees earning from abroad
- Work Visa – requires employer sponsorship
- Startup or Tech Visa – if you’re building a business
- Golden Visa – for high-value property or investment (subject to updates)
After 5 years of legal residence, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
Language and Culture: Speak English, Learn Portuguese
Most young people speak English, especially in urban areas. Still, learning Portuguese helps you navigate bureaucracy and feel at home in local bakeries and mercados.
Culturally, Lisbon is warm, social, and slower-paced than northern Europe. Expect long lunches, late dinners, and neighbors who actually say hi.
Where to Live in Lisbon
- Alfama / Graça – historic, hilly, very local
- Príncipe Real – upscale, green, LGBTQ+ friendly
- Bairro Alto – nightlife central, loud but central
- Cais do Sodré – stylish, near the river
- Avenidas Novas / Saldanha – modern, business district
- Alcântara / Belém – west-side, by the river, more relaxed
- Marvila – up-and-coming, arty and industrial
Lisbon has a reliable (though packed) public transport system: trams, metro, buses, and scooters.
Top 5 Best Neighborhoods in Lisbon for Long-Term Living
| Neighborhood | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| 1. Príncipe Real | Trendy, elegant, LGBTQ-friendly, with gardens and boutiques |
| 2. Alfama | Historic charm, fado culture, narrow streets, great views |
| 3. Parque das Nações | Modern, riverside, great infrastructure and family-friendly |
| 4. Campo de Ourique | Quiet, residential, local feel, popular with expat families |
| 5. Estrela | Classic Lisbon architecture, calm atmosphere, near parks and the Basilica |
Cost of Living in Lisbon
Lisbon is cheaper than most EU capitals — but locals feel the squeeze. You’ll do fine on a moderate budget.
- Rent: €1,200–2,000/month
- Utilities: ~€120/month
- Groceries: €200–350/month
- Public transport pass: ~€40/month
- Coffee: €1.50
- Dinner for two: €40–70
- Gym: €30–70/month
- Health insurance: €40–80/month for private plans
Total: a comfortable solo lifestyle costs around €2,000–2,800/month.
Work and Income
Lisbon is growing fast in:
- Tech and startups
- Design and content
- Tourism and hospitality
- Education and language schools
- Remote-friendly companies
Coworking spaces are everywhere, and the expat network is thriving. Freelancers and digital nomads are welcome — just make sure your visa matches your income source.
| Profession | Avg. Gross Salary per Month (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | €2,800 |
| IT Project Manager | €3,400 |
| UX/UI Designer | €2,300 |
| Architect | €2,200 |
| Mechanical Engineer | €2,500 |
| General Practitioner (Doctor) | €3,800 |
| Nurse | €1,800 |
| High School Teacher | €1,900 |
| Marketing Specialist | €2,400 |
| Accountant | €2,300 |
🇵🇹 Lisbon’s cost of living is lower than many Western capitals, but housing prices have risen sharply. Remote workers earning foreign income often enjoy a high quality of life.
Healthcare: Accessible and High-Quality
Portugal has a solid public system (SNS) and excellent private clinics. EU citizens can access public healthcare with a European Health Card. Non-EU residents often opt for private insurance.
- Doctor visit (private): €40–70
- Emergency care: public system, or private (~€150)
- Dental: €50–100 per visit
- Insurance plans: €40–100/month
Final Thoughts: Is Lisbon Right for You?
Lisbon offers a rare mix of affordability, sunshine, safety, and soul. It’s modern, yet grounded. Global, yet charmingly local. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Chiado or working from a tiled balcony in Graça, Lisbon has a rhythm that’s easy to fall into.
And once you’re here, you might not want to leave.
Also read our guide on Moving to London