Cost of Living in Portugal 2026: A Budget Breakdown for International Students

Portugal remains one of the more affordable study destinations in Western Europe, but the gap between Lisbon and a smaller university city like Coimbra or Braga is significant — often 30 to 40 percent on housing alone.

Housing is the single largest line item. A room in a shared flat typically runs highest in Lisbon, slightly lower in Porto, and noticeably lower in Coimbra, Aveiro and Braga. Student residences are cheaper but fill early, so applications should go out as soon as your enrolment is confirmed.

Food, transport and utilities are more predictable. Monthly public transport passes for students are heavily subsidised in most municipalities, and university canteens offer full meals at a fixed low rate.

Budget separately for one-off arrival costs: the residence permit appointment, a deposit of one to two months of rent, health insurance, and translations or apostilles you did not complete before departure.

The number that matters most for your visa file is the proof of means figure the consulate expects for the full duration of your programme. Build your budget around that first, then adjust the city.