Vienna vs Lisbon: Which City Wins for Expats in 2026?
Lisbon costs roughly 35% less than Vienna. Vienna scores significantly higher on safety — worth weighing against the cost gap. Use our tool below to personalize the estimate based on your income and lifestyle.
Lisbon is approximately 7% less expensive than Vienna based on cost of living including rent. This makes Lisbon a more budget-friendly option for expats considering a move.
Lisbon has a FIRE Score of 60/100, indicating its suitability for financial independence and early retirement. The city's safety index is 70, which is relatively safe.
Recommended profile: Lisbon is well-suited for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
About Vienna
Best for retirees given an 89/100 Retiree Score and excellent healthcare. A mid-range lifestyle costs $3500/mo total with a 1BR city center at $1450. No nomad infrastructure exists with a 0 Nomad Score, so digital nomads should look elsewhere.
$-500/mo
Cost of Living (Without Rent)
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About Lisbon
Lisbon is best for retirees, with an 82/100 Retiree Score reflecting excellent healthcare and a large expat community. A mid-range lifestyle costs $3,000 per month total, offering strong value for a coastal capital. The key trade-off is the high rent of $1,350 for a one-bedroom in the city center, which strains a budget-focused move.
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Cost of Living (Without Rent)
Rent Per Month
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City Details
Battle of Lifestyles
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| Metric | Vienna | Lisbon |
|---|---|---|
| 1BR Apartment (Center) | $1450 | $1350 |
| 1BR Apartment (Outside) | $1100 | $1050 |
| 3BR Apartment (Center) | $2750 | $2500 |
| 3BR Apartment (Outside) | $2100 | $1800 |
| Safety Index | 85 | 70 |
| Internet Speed | 100Mbps | 112Mbps |
| Walkability Score | N/A | N/A |
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