LisbonvsShanghai
Overall
💰+12.1%
Lisbon is 12.1%more expensive
Rent
🏠+10.0%
Housing is 10.0% higher
Dining
🍽️-10.0%
Restaurants 10.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+40.0%
Food shopping 40.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Lisbon, Portugal and Shanghai, China reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Lisbon is more expensive than Shanghai by approximately 12.1%. 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 lower than in Shanghai by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Lisbon's city center costs around €1,300, while the same in Shanghai is approximately CN¥8,000.
Dining out in Lisbon is notably more expensive compared to Shanghai. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs €10 in Lisbon versus CN¥30 in Shanghai.
Public transportation in Lisbon is more affordable, with monthly passes at €40 compared to CN¥260 in Shanghai.
Grocery shopping in Lisbon is more affordable by approximately 29%. 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 Shanghai, the same lifestyle would cost around CN¥1,980. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about €1,233 monthly in Lisbon versus CN¥6,930 in Shanghai. 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 Shanghai, 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 Shanghai 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
Shanghai
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lisbon more expensive than Shanghai?
Yes, Lisbon is approximately 12.1% more expensive than Shanghai overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Lisbon compared to Shanghai?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Shanghai salary when living in Lisbon. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Shanghai, you'd need about $56,034 in Lisbon for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Lisbon and Shanghai?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 29%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Shanghai offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Shanghai provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Lisbon if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Shanghai for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Lisbon vs Shanghai?
In Lisbon, a single person needs approximately €1,252 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about €2,933. In Shanghai, these figures are CN¥6,480 for singles and CN¥16,930 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Lisbon and Shanghai in 2025 shows notable 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 Shanghai to maintain your lifestyle from Lisbon
Calculate Salary Equivalence