LisbonvsCalgary
Overall
💰+24.1%
Lisbon is 24.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️+50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+60.0%
Food shopping 60.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lisbon, Portugal and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lisbon is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 24.1%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Lisbon are similar than in Calgary. A one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon's city center costs around €1,300, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Lisbon offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €10 in Lisbon versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Lisbon is more affordable, with monthly passes at €40 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lisbon.
Grocery shopping in Lisbon is more affordable by approximately 38%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Lisbon can expect to spend approximately €352 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,233 monthly in Lisbon versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lisbon to Calgary, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Calgary to Lisbon requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Lisbon
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisbon more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Lisbon is approximately 24.1% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lisbon compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.2x of your Calgary salary when living in Lisbon. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $62,069 in Lisbon for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lisbon and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 38%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lisbon if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lisbon vs Calgary?
In Lisbon, a single person needs approximately €1,252 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,933. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lisbon and Calgary in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Lisbon
Calculate Salary Equivalence