Portugal vs Italy: Which Is Cheaper?
Portugal is the cheaper country overall — about 4% less than Italy, or roughly $1,964 versus $2,049 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 5 and 9 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,403 in Italy against $1,480 in Portugal. Portugal rates higher on safety (84 vs 70/100). Internet is faster in Portugal (234 vs 101 Mbps). Healthcare scores 74 vs 66/100, favouring Portugal.
Portugal vs Italy at a glance
| Metric | Portugal | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,964 | $2,049 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $1,480 | $1,403 |
| Safety | 84/100 | 70/100 |
| Internet | 234 Mbps | 101 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 74/100 | 66/100 |
| Walkability | 81/100 | 80/100 |
| English spoken | 34% | 34% |
| Avg temperature | 69°F | 71°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 5 cities in Portugal and 9 in Italy.
Cost range by country
In Portugal, monthly costs run from Ericeira at $1,600 up to Lisbon at $2,072.
In Italy, monthly costs run from Naples at $1,741 up to Milan at $2,421.
Portugal vs Italy FAQ
Is Portugal or Italy cheaper to live in?
Portugal is cheaper — about $1,964 a month for a single person versus $2,049 — roughly 4% less.
Is Portugal or Italy safer?
Portugal scores higher on safety: 84/100 versus 70/100.
Is Portugal or Italy better for retirement?
Portugal is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($1,964/mo) and higher on healthcare (74/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Portugal or Italy?
Portugal — it pairs faster internet (234 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($1,964/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Portugal or Italy better to visit?
Portugal is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $1,964 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (84/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 5 cities in Portugal and 9 in Italy.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Portugal comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, higher safety, faster internet and is the cheaper of the two at $1,964/mo.
Choose Portugal for
- a lower cost of living
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Italy for
- cheaper rent