LisbonvsSantiago
Overall
💰-5.2%
Lisbon is 5.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠-30.0%
Housing is 30.0% lower
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒+10.0%
Food shopping 10.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lisbon, Portugal and Santiago, Chile reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lisbon is more affordable than Santiago by approximately 5.2%. 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 higher than in Santiago by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon's city center costs around €1,300, while the same in Santiago is approximately CLP 500,000.
Dining out in Lisbon costs about the same compared to Santiago. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €10 in Lisbon versus CLP 7,000 in Santiago.
Public transportation in Lisbon is more affordable, with monthly passes at €40 compared to CLP 33,000 in Santiago.
Purchasing power in Lisbon is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Santiago.
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 Santiago, the same lifestyle would cost around CLP 286,600. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,233 monthly in Lisbon versus CLP 1,003,100 in Santiago. 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 Santiago to Lisbon, 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 Lisbon to Santiago 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
Santiago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisbon more expensive than Santiago?
No, Lisbon is approximately 5.2% cheaper than Santiago. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Lisbon compared to Santiago?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 95% of your Santiago salary when living in Lisbon. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Santiago, you'd need about $47,541 in Lisbon for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lisbon and Santiago?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 43%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Lisbon offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Lisbon provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lisbon if you prioritize earning potential, or Santiago for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lisbon vs Santiago?
In Lisbon, a single person needs approximately €1,252 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,933. In Santiago, these figures are CLP 636,600 for singles and CLP 1,653,100 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lisbon and Santiago in 2025 shows moderate 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 Santiago to maintain your lifestyle from Lisbon
Calculate Salary Equivalence