Lisbon vs Amsterdam

Lisbon is approximately 36% more affordable.

Lisbon
Lisbon
8.5/10
VS
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
8.4/10
πŸ’°

Cost of Living

ExpenseLisbonAmsterdam
Rent (1BR)$1300$1950
Food$270$325
Transport$43$108
Total$1950$3030
πŸ’Έ Save on International Transfers

Wise offers the real exchange rate with transparent, low fees. Trusted by 16M+ people β€” the #1 tool we recommend to every expat client.

Try Wise Free β†’
πŸ“Š

Quality of Life

FactorLisbonAmsterdam
Score8.5/108.4/10
Safety9/108.5/10
Weather17Β°C10Β°C
Internet100+ Mbps fiber100+ Mbps

Lisbon Pros

  • 300+ days of sunshine per year β€” one of Europe's sunniest capitals
  • Thriving startup and tech ecosystem β€” Web Summit, hundreds of startups
  • Excellent and affordable food β€” fresh seafood, pastΓ©is de nata, incredible wine
  • High English proficiency among younger population β€” 70%+ speak some English

Full guide β†’

Amsterdam Pros

  • Near-universal English proficiency β€” 94% of Dutch speak English, easiest European country for anglophones
  • 30% tax ruling β€” qualifying expats receive 30% of salary tax-free for up to 5 years (massive benefit)
  • World-class cycling infrastructure β€” flat city, dedicated bike lanes everywhere, 800,000 bikes
  • Most progressive society in Europe β€” LGBTQ+ rights pioneer, tolerant, inclusive culture

Full guide β†’

πŸ›‘οΈ Health Insurance for Nomads

SafetyWing offers affordable travel & health insurance from $45/mo β€” designed for digital nomads and remote workers in 195+ countries.

Get Covered β†’

Verdict: Lisbon is 36% more affordable. Choose Lisbon for digital nomads, or Amsterdam for corporate expats.