Portugal vs Spain: Which Is Cheaper?
Portugal is the cheaper country overall — about 2% less than Spain, or roughly $1,964 versus $1,994 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 5 and 10 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,457 in Spain against $1,480 in Portugal. Portugal rates higher on safety (84 vs 75/100). Internet is faster in Spain (255 vs 234 Mbps). Healthcare scores 79 vs 74/100, favouring Spain.
Portugal vs Spain at a glance
| Metric | Portugal | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,964 | $1,994 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $1,480 | $1,457 |
| Safety | 84/100 | 75/100 |
| Internet | 234 Mbps | 255 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 74/100 | 79/100 |
| Walkability | 81/100 | 82/100 |
| English spoken | 34% | 28% |
| Avg temperature | 69°F | 74°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 5 cities in Portugal and 10 in Spain.
Cost range by country
In Portugal, monthly costs run from Ericeira at $1,600 up to Lisbon at $2,072.
In Spain, monthly costs run from Granada at $1,476 up to Barcelona at $2,217.
Portugal vs Spain FAQ
Is Portugal or Spain cheaper to live in?
Portugal is cheaper — about $1,964 a month for a single person versus $1,994 — roughly 2% less.
Is Portugal or Spain safer?
Portugal scores higher on safety: 84/100 versus 75/100.
Is Portugal or Spain better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Portugal is cheaper ($1,964 vs $1,994/mo), while Spain scores higher on healthcare (79 vs 74/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Portugal or Spain?
Spain has faster internet (255 vs 234 Mbps), but Portugal stretches a remote income further at $1,964/mo.
Is Portugal or Spain 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 10 in Spain.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Spain comes out ahead — it leads on cheaper rent, faster internet, better healthcare, though Portugal is cheaper at $1,964/mo if budget is your top priority.
Choose Portugal for
- a lower cost of living
- higher safety
Choose Spain for
- cheaper rent
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability