ℹ️ Informational Tool Only: This tool provides general information and should not be construed as legal advice. Results are estimates based on publicly available information. For advice specific to your situation, consult with a licensed immigration attorney.

Portugal vs USA Cost of Living Calculator

Compare real 2025 living costs and see if you meet D8 visa income requirements

Data Updated: January 2025

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Lisbon, Portugal

2,205

Monthly cost of living

Rent (1br)1200
Utilities110
Groceries300
Dining Out250
Transport40
Healthcare80
Internet & Gym75
Entertainment150

New York City, USA

$5,830

Monthly cost of living

Rent (1br)$3500
Utilities$180
Groceries$500
Dining Out$450
Transport$130
Healthcare$600
Internet & Gym$170
Entertainment$300

Your Potential Savings

$3,625

per month (62% savings)

$43,500
Annual Savings
$217,500
5-Year Savings
38%
Of US Cost

Income Requirement Not Met

Your estimated living costs in Lisbon (€2205/month) are below the D8 visa minimum income requirement of €2,820/month. You'll need to prove higher income to qualify.

D8 Visa Income Requirements (2025)

  • • Solo applicant: €2,820/month minimum (€33,840/year)
  • • With 1 dependent: €4,230/month (€50,760/year)
  • • With 2 dependents: €5,640/month (€67,680/year)
  • • Add €1,410/month per additional dependent

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Cost of Living FAQs

How much does it cost to live in Portugal as a digital nomad?

How much does it cost to live in Portugal as a digital nomad depends on your city and lifestyle. In 2025, Lisbon costs €2,300-3,000/month, Porto €1,800-2,400/month, and smaller cities like Braga €1,500-2,000/month. This includes rent, utilities, food, transport, and entertainment for a moderate lifestyle. Budget travelers can live on €1,200-1,500/month outside major cities.

Is Portugal cheaper than the United States?

Is Portugal cheaper than the United States? Yes, Portugal is 40-60% cheaper than most US cities. Rent in Lisbon is 65% less than San Francisco, healthcare costs are 80% lower, and dining out costs 50-70% less. A $4,000/month budget in the US equivalent to €2,000-2,500 in Portugal provides a comparable or better lifestyle.

What is the minimum income for D8 visa Portugal 2025?

What is the minimum income for D8 visa Portugal 2025? The minimum income for D8 visa Portugal 2025 is €2,820 per month (€33,840 annually) for solo applicants. This is 4 times Portugal's minimum wage. Add €1,410/month for each dependent. You must prove this income through employment contracts, client agreements, bank statements, or tax returns.

How much are groceries in Portugal compared to USA?

How much are groceries in Portugal compared to USA? Groceries in Portugal cost 30-50% less than the USA. A monthly grocery budget for one person is €250-300 in Portugal vs $400-500 in US cities. Local markets, Pingo Doce, and Continente offer affordable quality products. Wine, produce, and seafood are especially cheaper.

What is the average rent in Lisbon Portugal 2025?

What is the average rent in Lisbon Portugal 2025? The average rent in Lisbon Portugal 2025 for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center is €1,100-1,400/month. Outside the center, expect €800-1,100. 3-bedroom apartments range from €1,800-2,400 in central areas. Prices have stabilized after 2022-2023 increases, with slight declines in some neighborhoods.

Can you live comfortably in Portugal on $3000 a month?

Can you live comfortably in Portugal on $3000 a month? Yes, $3,000/month (≈€2,750) provides a comfortable lifestyle in most Portuguese cities, exceeding the D8 visa requirement. In Lisbon or Porto, you'll afford a nice 1-bedroom, regular dining out, gym membership, and weekend trips. In smaller cities, this budget offers an even more comfortable lifestyle with potential for savings.