Updated: April 2, 2024

When you think of Portugal, Lisbon is the first city that likely comes to mind. Lisbon has a lot going for it – it’s the country’s capital, the largest city, and the wealthiest region in Portugal. Situated atop seven hills that allow for magnificent views, the city’s bustling cosmopolitan center is balanced by the tranquil beaches surrounding its outskirts. Sound like the perfect place to live? Our article will provide an overview of Lisbon apartments for rent to help you on your journey to living in Lisbon.

Renting is an excellent choice if you aren’t ready to purchase a property. Short-term and long-term rentals in Lisbon allow you the flexibility of living in different areas and enjoying the diverse culture, landscapes, food, and activities. You can also look for fully-furnished apartments that take the stress out of moving in. Keep reading to learn more about renting apartments in Lisbon.

Lisbon-landscape-Portugal

How much are rents in Lisbon?

Living in Lisbon and benefitting from all its advantages does come at a price. The high demand for accommodation in the city has made it more difficult to find apartments to rent that fulfill all your requirements. Demand is much greater than supply, which has driven up property prices in recent years.

Luckily, Portugal is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe for expats and digital nomads. Even so, the cost of living in Lisbon is more expensive than in other Portuguese cities. For example, a one-room apartment in the city center costs €1207.33 per month. You’re likely to find an apartment at a more affordable price as you move away from the center, where you will pay around €785.09 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Your rent will vary based on where the property is located, be it downtown Lisbon, the city center, popular neighborhoods like Príncipe Real, or residential neighborhoods like Campo de Ourique.

The cost of monthly rentals will also vary depending on the type of property you are looking for. Lisbon offers a range of property types to choose from, including modern, luxury, and more traditional-style apartments.

 

Is Lisbon cheap to rent?

While rent in Lisbon is not necessarily cheap, it is possible to find rentals available at a price that fits your budget. It is always important to remember that rent in the city center and in-demand neighborhoods will be higher. As you move away from the city center and into more affordable neighborhoods, properties become cheaper to rent. For example, a family renting a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center will pay around €1309.46 per month, while the same accommodation in the city center will cost around €2136.43.

The type of accommodation and furnishings you require will also influence your rent in Lisbon. Are you a student looking for student accommodation with wi-fi, a family looking for a fully furnished apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, or a young professional looking for a two-bedroom apartment to share with air conditioning and stunning views? Some apartments may not include extra amenities like wi-fi but may provide charge an additional cost. You may also want to check what is within walking distance of your desired Lisbon apartment, such as shops, restaurants, and main tourist areas.

Lisbon has a wealth of neighborhoods to choose from, each offering its own benefits. Bairro Alto is a popular area, centrally located, and a great tourist attraction. Lapa and Santos are perfect areas for families due to the surrounding parks, cafés, and schools. Intendente and Mouraria are popular up-and-coming areas for long-term rentals among locals and young professionals. 

For more information, you can check out our guide Living in Lisbon: A Guide for Foreigners

 

Is it cheap to live in Lisbon?

While Lisbon is more expensive than other Portuguese cities, it is still more affordable compared to other European capitals. Living in Lisbon also offers a great quality of life, as Portugal ranks in the 12th position on the Quality of Life Index created by our partner, Global Citizen Solutions. This index considers the cost of living, levels of freedom, happiness, environmental performance, sustainable development, and migrant acceptance.

To give you a realistic idea of the cost of living in Lisbon, the table below outlines some average prices for common goods in the city:

Milk (regular), (1 liter)€0.93
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)€1.50
Eggs (regular) (12)€2.85
Local Cheese (1kg)€10.01
Chicken Fillets (1kg)€7.13
Oranges (1kg)€1.65
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter bottle)€1.20
Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range)€5.00

Visit our article for more information about the Cost of Living in Lisbon

 

How to find an apartment for rent in Lisbon?

There are a few easy ways to find a Lisbon apartment for rent. You can hire a real estate agency, such as Casa Sapo or ERA, that will be able to give you expert advice about Lisbon’s rental market. Another option is to look through online classified ad sites, many of which are in English. Such sites include Expatriates, Idealista, and Immovirtual. A third option is to search Facebook Marketplace and Facebook groups dedicated to rentals in Lisbon.

Overall, there are many advantages to renting an apartment in Lisbon. Portugal’s beautiful capital has lovely weather for most of the year, a rich history and culture, plenty to do and see, and an excellent quality of life. While it can sometimes be challenging to find a property to rent, Lisbon offers a variety of lifestyles and locations that cater to your needs. That’s why Lisbon remains a top choice for relocation among expats, retirees, and digital nomads alike.

 

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Contact us if you’re looking to buy property in Portugal. Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent that is based in Lisbon. We provide expert impartial advice on real estate investments and how to buy property in Portugal. From scouting out the perfect property through to property acquisition, we have you covered. Our team of skilled experts is available to solve all your real estate doubts, offering insightful expertise and strategic advice. We are focused on securing the best deal for you.

Frequently Asked Question

Can a foreigner rent an apartment in Lisbon?

Understandably, many people worry about being able to rent or purchase property in a new country as a foreigner. Fortunately, Portugal’s policies are flexible and allow foreigners to easily rent apartments in Lisbon.