Living in Lisbon attracts more and more young Europeans: sun, sea, a lively international scene and lower costs than back home. But what is daily life really like? Here is an honest overview of the neighbourhoods, budget, lifestyle and first steps.
Living in Lisbon: which neighbourhood?
From the lively Bairro Alto to quieter Alvalade, each area has its character. Many newcomers start in a shared flat to meet people quickly and split costs.
What does life cost?
Eating out, transport and leisure are cheaper than in most of Western Europe. Rent is the heaviest item, which is why roles with housing provided help so much.
| Per month | With housing provided |
|---|---|
| Net salary | 1,000 to 1,100 euros |
| Rent | 0 euros (covered) |
| Left to live on | 700 to 850 euros |
Lifestyle and community
- Beaches 20 minutes away by train.
- A large, open expat community.
- Cafés, music and surfing all year.
Do you need Portuguese?
No. English is widely spoken in Lisbon, and at work your mother tongue is what counts. You pick up Portuguese at your own pace.
The first steps
As an EU citizen you need no visa. To compare your rights and mobility support, the European portal EURES is a good start.
Start living in Lisbon the easy way
The simplest route is a job that organises housing and arrival. At Expat-U we offer exactly those roles in Portugal: see the openings. Living in Lisbon turns from a dream into a concrete plan.
