How much does it cost to live in Portugal in 2025? A real comparison between salary and expenses

Many Brazilians question whether it is worth migrating to Portugal. The answer depends less on the absolute value of the salary and more on the analysis between disposable income and actual cost of living. In 2025, understanding this dynamic is essential before making a decision.

How much does a worker earn in Portugal?

The minimum wage in Portugal reached €870 per month in 2025 on the mainland, representing an increase from €820 in 2024. In the autonomous regions:

• Madeira: €913.50
• Azores: €915

Converting to Brazilian reais, these amounts correspond to approximately R$5,580–R$5,600, based on the EUR/USD exchange rate (currently around 1.17776).

Although higher than the Brazilian minimum wage of R$1,518, it is essential not to compare numbers solely on nominal values. Portugal is part of the European Union and maintains one of the lowest minimum wages in the Western region, according to Eurostat.

How much does the worker actually receive? Practical deductions

Between gross and net pay, there are significant differences:

Mandatory deductions:

• Social Security: 11% (applied to all)
• IRS (Income Tax): varies depending on dependents and personal situation

Practical example with minimum wage:

• Gross: €870
• Social Security (11%): €95.70
• Estimated net (without IRS or with minimal IRS): €774–€770

This reduction of about €100 per month is significant when assessing whether the salary covers basic expenses.

How much does it cost to live in the main Portuguese cities?

According to cost of living data:

Monthly expenses for sustenance:

• 1 person: €1,800
• Family of 4: €3,304

Portugal remains the 2nd cheapest country in Western Europe, but it’s not as affordable as many imagine.

Breakdown by category:

Basic food:

• Fast food meal: €8
• Set menu: €12
• 500g chicken: €3.36
• 500g cheese: €4.90

Housing (monthly rent):

• T2 apartment (85m²) in a prime area: €1,518
• T2 apartment in a regular area: €1,005
• Studio in a regular area: €729

Transport and utilities:

• Gasoline: €1.69/liter
• Monthly transport pass: €35
• Electricity + water + gas: €112

Leisure and health:

• Gym membership: €34
• Private medical consultation: €65

Is it realistic to live on minimum wage in Portugal?

The answer is: it depends on the location and planning.

In major cities (Lisbon, Porto): Living with €770 net requires strict budget management. Rent of €729 consumes 95% of the salary, leaving little for food, transportation, and other costs. Possible? Yes. Comfortable? No.

In medium-sized cities: Adaptation becomes more feasible. Lower rents and less consumption pressure allow for a more comfortable life.

How do salaries vary by profession?

A crucial piece of information: the minimum wage is just the floor. Qualified professions earn significantly more:

• Specialized technicians: €1,200–€1,800
• Higher education professionals: €1,500–€2,500+
• In-demand professions (health, technology, engineering): €2,000–€3,500+

This completely changes the financial calculation for those with valued training or experience.

Is it worth migrating to Portugal? Brazil vs Portugal comparison

The Portuguese scenario:

• Higher minimum wage (€870)
• Equally high cost of living
• Net income after essential expenses: limited with minimum wage, comfortable with qualified professions
• Social security, access to public health, and labor benefits

The Brazilian scenario:

• Lower minimum wage (R$1,518)
• Basic costs proportionally higher relative to income
• For qualified workers: growing opportunities but economic volatility
• Security and stability may be lower in certain contexts

Comparative conclusion: Portugal offers a clear advantage for qualified workers, professionals in demand sectors, and those seeking long-term security. For those earning only the minimum wage, the experience will be challenging in major cities and more accessible in smaller regions.

Tips for deciding on migration

1. Analyze your profession: How much would you earn in Portugal with your current qualification?
2. Choose the city carefully: Lisbon and Porto consume proportionally more income
3. Calculate actual net income: Don’t rely solely on gross figures
4. Evaluate growth opportunities: Portugal offers salary progression in specific sectors
5. Consider benefits beyond salary: Social security, stability, and access to public services

The decision to migrate to Portugal should consider not only comparative numbers but your personal context, professional prospects, and medium- to long-term goals. For many, especially qualified professionals, Portugal represents a real opportunity for sustainable improvement.