Greece vs Portugal: Which Is Cheaper?
Greece is the cheaper country overall — about 24% less than Portugal, or roughly $1,484 versus $1,964 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 4 and 5 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $731 in Greece against $1,480 in Portugal. Portugal rates higher on safety (84 vs 66/100). Internet is faster in Portugal (234 vs 85 Mbps). Healthcare scores 74 vs 59/100, favouring Portugal.
Greece vs Portugal at a glance
| Metric | Greece | Portugal |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,484 | $1,964 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $731 | $1,480 |
| Safety | 66/100 | 84/100 |
| Internet | 85 Mbps | 234 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 59/100 | 74/100 |
| Walkability | 74/100 | 81/100 |
| English spoken | 51% | 34% |
| Avg temperature | 77°F | 69°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 4 cities in Greece and 5 in Portugal.
Cost range by country
In Greece, monthly costs run from Rhodes at $1,329 up to Mykonos at $1,671.
In Portugal, monthly costs run from Ericeira at $1,600 up to Lisbon at $2,072.
Greece vs Portugal FAQ
Is Greece or Portugal cheaper to live in?
Greece is cheaper — about $1,484 a month for a single person versus $1,964 — roughly 24% less.
Is Greece or Portugal safer?
Portugal scores higher on safety: 84/100 versus 66/100.
Is Greece or Portugal better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Greece is cheaper ($1,484 vs $1,964/mo), while Portugal scores higher on healthcare (74 vs 59/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Greece or Portugal?
Portugal has faster internet (234 vs 85 Mbps), but Greece stretches a remote income further at $1,484/mo.
Is Greece or Portugal better to visit?
Greece is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,484 a month for day-to-day costs, while Portugal edges it on safety (84/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 4 cities in Greece and 5 in Portugal.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Portugal comes out ahead — it leads on higher safety, faster internet, better healthcare, though Greece is cheaper at $1,484/mo if budget is your top priority.
Choose Greece for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
Choose Portugal for
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability