How much money do you need to live comfortably in Portugal, and why Ukrainians are no longer choosing this destination
15 August 22:12
ANALYSIS
Moving to Portugal in 2026 requires careful financial planning. Despite popular myths about Europe being cheap, the actual cost of living in Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities has risen significantly, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The main expenses remain rent, as well as utility bills and the cost of basic groceries.
To assess your financial situation before immigrating, it’s important to consider the current minimum wage, tax deductions, and average costs for transportation and healthcare.
So if you’re still watching old videos from 2019 about “Portuguese paradise for pennies,” we have some disappointing news for you: over the past seven years, the situation has changed dramatically—and not for the better.
Although Portugal remains a safe, warm, and exceptionally beautiful country, the harsh economic reality of 2026 dictates entirely different rules.
1,000 euros today isn’t about enjoying a cozy glass of wine with a view of the Atlantic. It’s about a regime of strict austerity and survival.
Rent: A full-sized one-bedroom apartment (T1) in Lisbon will set you back between 950 and 1,300 euros per month. In Porto, the situation is slightly more affordable—750–1,000 euros. If you’re looking for just a modest room, you’ll have to pay 450–600 euros in the capital and about 350–450 euros in the suburbs.
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Utilities and communications: electricity, water, gas, home internet, and a cell phone plan consistently cost between 120 and 160 euros per month.
Food: A basic grocery basket from the supermarket—without delicacies, lobsters, or daily trips to restaurants—costs 250–320 euros.
Transportation: A single-ride ticket costs a flat rate of 40 euros.
The official minimum wage in Portugal in 2026 is 920 euros gross (which, after taxes, amounts to about 818 euros “take-home” pay).
With a budget of 1,000 euros per month, private housing in a major city becomes an unattainable luxury.
Typically, this means renting a room with several roommates, and after paying for rent, food, and transportation—with no other income or financial cushion—you’ll be left with a meager 50–100 euros.
That’s the amount for clothes, basic first-aid supplies, the occasional cup of coffee, and any unforeseen expenses.
According to experts’ estimates, a net income of 1,800 to 2,200 euros is needed to live a truly comfortable and independent life here.
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