Direct Answer
Salary Needed to Live Comfortably in Lisbon
To live comfortably in Lisbon as a single person, you typically need a gross annual salary of approximately 48.000 €. This provides a solid lifestyle with savings capacity and breathing room after rent and core expenses.
Cost of Living in Lisbon (2026)
Approximate figures. Actual costs vary by neighbourhood and lifestyle.
Salary by Comfort Tier in Lisbon
Covers essentials, very tight on extras
Comfortable basics, some savings, limited luxuries
Solid lifestyle, dining out, travel, decent savings
Premium lifestyle, strong savings, no financial stress
Household Adjustments: Couples and Families
The figures above are for a single person renting in Lisbon. For a couple, the combined household income required for a comfortable lifestyle is roughly €77k–€96k combined, as some costs (rent, utilities) are shared while others (groceries, childcare) scale up.
Adding a child significantly increases costs — childcare alone can add 450 €/month per child in Lisbon.
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FAQ
What is a good salary to live well in Lisbon?
For a comfortable lifestyle in Lisbon as a single person, aim for approximately 48.000 € gross per year. This puts you at a Cushy Index of around 67/100, with meaningful breathing room after rent and expenses.
What is the minimum salary to get by in Lisbon?
A low salary is usually tight in Lisbon, especially when market rent is included. A 1-bed apartment typically costs 900 €–1200 €/month, so rent can absorb a large share of take-home pay.
Is Lisbon expensive compared with other cities?
Lisbon has a modeled cost index of 1.15x the benchmark average, making it somewhat above the benchmark average.
Calculate Your Cushy Index for Lisbon
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Calculate My Cushy IndexAll figures are estimates for planning purposes. Not financial advice. Last updated: June 2026.