Chicago vs Lisbon

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Lisbon is roughly 39% more affordable than Chicago (index 36 vs 60, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Lisbon
More affordable overall
39% cheaper than Chicago · Cost index: 36 vs 60

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

60Cost Index36
4,800Median Income /mo1,460
60Safety Index78
4.95Income Tax %25
150Internet (Mbps)176
250Coworking /mo220

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryLisbon
$2,471/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
44% ← cheaper
$1,380/month
$1.35/liter
Meal for One
37% ← cheaper
$0.85/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
33% ← cheaper
$12/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
47% ← cheaper
$40/month
$166/month
Utilities (Monthly)
13% ← cheaper
$145/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
50% ← cheaper
$60/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability77/100

Lisbon

Internet176 Mbps
Coworking$220/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Lisbon?

Lisbon is cheaper than Chicago. Lisbon has a cost of living index of 36/100 compared to 60/100 for Chicago (New York = 100), making it roughly 39% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Lisbon than Chicago?

Lisbon is approximately 39% cheaper than Chicago based on cost index scores (36 vs 60, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chicago could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,822/month in Lisbon.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Lisbon?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,471/month. In Lisbon, the equivalent is around $1,380/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Chicago or Lisbon?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Lisbon offers 176 Mbps and coworking at ~$220/month. Lisbon has a cost advantage of 39%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Lisbon?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $4,800 USD, compared to $1,460 USD in Lisbon.

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