New YorkvsLisbon
Overall
💰-42.0%
New York is 42.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠-50.0%
Housing is 50.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-50.0%
Restaurants 50.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-50.0%
Food shopping 50.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between New York, United States and Lisbon, Portugal reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that New York is more affordable than Lisbon by approximately 42.0%. 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 New York are higher than in Lisbon by 100%. A one-bedroom apartment in New York's city center costs around $3,500, while the same in Lisbon is approximately €1,300.
Dining out in New York is notably more expensive compared to Lisbon. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $20 in New York versus €10 in Lisbon.
Public transportation in New York is more expensive, with monthly passes at $127 compared to €40 in Lisbon.
Purchasing power in New York is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lisbon.
Grocery shopping in New York is more expensive by approximately 100%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in New York can expect to spend approximately $779 per month (excluding rent), while in Lisbon, the same lifestyle would cost around €352. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,727 monthly in New York versus €1,233 in Lisbon. 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 New York, 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 New York 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
New York
Lisbon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New York more expensive than Lisbon?
No, New York is approximately 42.0% cheaper than Lisbon. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in New York compared to Lisbon?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 70% of your Lisbon salary when living in New York. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lisbon, you'd need about $35,211 in New York for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between New York and Lisbon?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 100%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
New York offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, New York provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider New York if you prioritize earning potential, or Lisbon for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for New York vs Lisbon?
In New York, a single person needs approximately $3,279 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $7,227. In Lisbon, these figures are €1,252 for singles and €2,933 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between New York and Lisbon 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 Lisbon to maintain your lifestyle from New York
Calculate Salary Equivalence