Question 1

Is Lisbon cheaper than Madrid?

Accepted Answer

Lisbon shows lower typical monthly costs ($1,785–$2,826) than Madrid ($2,092–$3,313) in our 2026 estimates.

Question 2

What is the cost difference between Lisbon and Madrid?

Accepted Answer

Using upper single-person estimates, Madrid is about 17% more expensive than Lisbon. Actual spend varies by lifestyle.

Question 3

Which city has better quality of life, Lisbon or Madrid?

Accepted Answer

Lisbon scores 8.1/10 overall vs Madrid at 8.0/10. Compare housing, safety, healthcare, and culture in the breakdown below.

Question 4

What salary do you need to live in Lisbon vs Madrid?

Accepted Answer

For a single person we estimate roughly $1,785–$2,826 per month in Lisbon and $2,092–$3,313 in Madrid. Use the salary checker on this page to test your income against both.

Category	Lisbon (USD)	Madrid (USD)	Winner
Rent (1-bed, city center)	$1,338–$2,082	$1,569–$2,441	🟢 Lisbon
Rent (1-bed, outside center)	$706–$1,115	$828–$1,308	🟢 Lisbon
Utilities	$56–$108	$65–$126	🟢 Lisbon
Groceries	$283–$424	$331–$497	🟢 Lisbon
Eating out (mid-range meal)	$37–$67	$44–$78	🟢 Lisbon
Public transport (monthly)	$71–$86	$83–$100	🟢 Lisbon
Internet & Mobile	$22–$37	$26–$44	🟢 Lisbon
Gym membership	$26–$48	$31–$57	🟢 Lisbon
Cinema ticket	$10–$13	$12–$16	🟢 Lisbon
Monthly total (single)	$1,785–$2,826	$2,092–$3,313	🟢 Lisbon

🇵🇹 Lisbon vs 🇪🇸 Madrid

Cost breakdown

See how your salary compares in both cities

Quality of life comparison

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Full Lisbon guide

Full Madrid guide