Lisbon vs Dublin: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison

Comparing Lisbon (Portugal) and Dublin (Ireland) reveals a cost-of-living index of 52.3 in Lisbon versus 80 in Dublin (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Lisbon is 34.6% more affordable than Dublin.

Metrological Indicator Lisbon (Portugal) Dublin (Ireland)
Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) 52.3 80
Rent Index 39.4 66.7
Groceries Index 42.1 62.1
Restaurant Price Index 46.1 76.3
Local Purchasing Power Index 61.2 93.5
1-Bed Apartment in City Center €1,144 €2,028
Inexpensive Restaurant Meal €12.48 €18.72
Monthly Public Transit Pass €41.60 €119.60
Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) €140.40 €205.92
Safety & Healthcare Score Safety 70.4/100 · Health 78.4/100 Safety 51.4/100 · Health 68.2/100

Is Lisbon more expensive than Dublin?

Dublin has a higher overall cost-of-living index (80) compared to Lisbon (52.3), representing an index differential of 27.7 points (34.6% difference).

How do apartment rents compare between Lisbon and Dublin?

In Lisbon, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages €1,144/month (Rent Index: 39.4), whereas in Dublin it averages €2,028/month (Rent Index: 66.7).

→ Lisbon Full Cost Report → Dublin Full Cost Report → Global City Index Directory

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Lisbon

The cost of living in Lisbon, Portugal is indexed at 52.3 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Lisbon are defined by a Rent Index of 39.4. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,144 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Lisbon, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €12.48, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €1.66. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €41.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €140.40 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Lisbon secures a safety index rating of 70.4/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 94.1/100, healthcare standard scores 78.4/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 92.5 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: LISBON-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED

Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Dublin

The cost of living in Dublin, Ireland is indexed at 80 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.

Housing and accommodation in Dublin are defined by a Rent Index of 66.7. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €2,028 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.

Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Dublin, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €18.72, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €4.11. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €119.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €205.92 monthly.

Looking at quality of life metrics, Dublin secures a safety index rating of 51.4/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 81.2/100, healthcare standard scores 68.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 91.2 Mbps.

METROLOGY ID: DUBLIN-EN-2026 | DYNAMIC DATA FEED