Cost of living in the United States and Portugal: what are the differences ?

Choosing where to live involves many factors, including the cost of living. Whether you're an expat looking for a new adventure or just a curious holidaymaker, comparing expenses between different countries is important to making an informed decision. In this article, we'll look at Portugal and the United States, analysing price differences in a number of key areas to help you decide which country best suits your budget.

Accommodation

Housing is usually the biggest expense for a household. In Portugal, median rental prices are considerably lower than in the United States. For example, a T3 flat in the centre of Lisbon will cost you around €900 a month, whereas in New York you need to pay an average of €2,500 for a similar property. 

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The same difference can be seen in less populated areas: a monthly rental in Faro or Porto in Portugal is around €650, compared with €1,200 for a similar-sized American city. This is all information you need to know before starting the procedure to immigrate to Portugal. Click on https://anchorless.io/blog/moving/move-to-portugal-from-usa to simplify your expatriation.

Diet

Food is another important factor to consider. In Portugal, fresh, local produce is generally affordable, with prices often 50% lower than in France. Restaurants and cafés also offer reasonably priced menus, so you can enjoy local cuisine without breaking the bank. On the other hand, food products in the United States, particularly meat and processed products, tend to be more expensive. What's more, eating out can be more expensive, especially in the big cities.

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Transport

Transport options vary considerably between the two countries. In Portugal, public transport is well developed and relatively cheap. A metro ticket in Lisbon costs around €1.50, while a monthly pass will set you back around €30. 

In the United States, the car is often the main mode of transport, which means additional expenditure on petrol, insurance and maintenance. Public transport in major American cities can also be expensive, with New York metro tickets costing up to 3 dollars.

Leisure

Leisure activities make up a large part of the monthly budget. In Portugal, the entertainment options are numerous and affordable. You can enjoy cultural visits at reasonable prices, free walks or cycle rides through beautiful countryside, and evenings out in bars and restaurants at low prices. 

In the United States, leisure activities can be more expensive, especially in the big cities. Concerts, sporting events and cinemas are often very expensive.