One of the most frequently asked questions for people considering a move to Portugal is, “How much does one person need a month to live in Portugal?” While it may seem like a straightforward question, the answer is anything but simple. We took to the biggest and most popular community of foreigners called “Moving to Portugal” to find the answers.
The cost of living in Portugal can vary greatly depending on various factors such as location, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences. In this article, we will delve into the comments and answers provided by individuals with diverse backgrounds and perspectives to shed light on the range of opinions regarding the monthly expenses in Portugal.
The Importance of Context: When it comes to determining the cost of living in any country, it’s essential to consider the specific context and circumstances. Many respondents rightly pointed out that the answer depends on factors such as accommodation type, location, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Some individuals emphasized the importance of considering whether one owns or rents a property, the size and quality of accommodation, and the city or region of residence.
Accommodation Expenses: The cost of accommodation emerged as a significant factor in determining the monthly expenses in Portugal. Rental prices can vary significantly depending on the location, size, and quality of the apartment. The comments highlighted that rent prices in Lisbon, for example, can range from €600 to €2,000 per month, depending on the area. Outside of major cities and coastal regions, the cost of accommodation tends to be more affordable.
Utilities and Basic Expenses: In addition to accommodation, respondents also mentioned other basic expenses such as utilities. Basic utilities including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage services for a small apartment can cost around €100 to €150 per month. Internet and mobile phone plans were also brought up, with prices averaging around €30 to €40 for internet and €10 to €20 for mobile phone plans.
Transportation and Food Costs: Transportation costs, including public transportation and taxis, were mentioned by several respondents. A monthly pass for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro in Lisbon costs around €40 to €50. Additionally, the cost of groceries depends on individual preferences and dietary habits, with estimates ranging from €150 to €250 per month for a single person.
Personal Lifestyle and Entertainment: The cost of dining out, entertainment, and leisure activities can vary widely depending on personal preferences. Eating at mid-range restaurants can cost between €10 to €20 for a meal, while cinema tickets range from €7 to €10. Fitness club memberships can cost between €30 to €50 per month.
Diverse Perspectives: The comments section revealed a wide range of opinions on the monthly expenses needed to live in Portugal. Some individuals suggested that a single person could comfortably manage on €1,000 to €2,000 per month, while others mentioned figures ranging from €1,500 to €4,000 per month. Several respondents emphasized the importance of considering the location, with higher costs in Lisbon compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
To see the full conversation, see here.
Conclusion: Determining the exact amount of money one needs per month to live in Portugal is a complex task that depends on various factors. The comments and responses from individuals with diverse backgrounds provided valuable insights into the range of opinions on the topic. It is clear that the cost of living in Portugal can vary significantly depending on location, accommodation type, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences. To make an accurate budget, it is recommended to consider individual circumstances and conduct thorough research to obtain up-to-date information on specific expenses.
Scott Kirk is the found of BuyProperty.com which provides unparalleled investment insights and analysis into all properties for sale in Portugal and the admin to the biggest online community for foreigners Moving to Portugal.