Cost of Living: Bologna vs Lisbon (2026)
Italy vs Portugal — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
The Short Version
- •Rent is 30% cheaper in Bologna ($1130/mo vs $1616/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in Bologna (31°C vs 27°C).
- •Lisbon scores higher on democracy (8.1 vs 7.6 / 10 EIU).
- •Street-level English is easier in Lisbon (72/100 vs 29/100).
Bologna vs Lisbon — Common Questions
Is Bologna cheaper than Lisbon?▾
Bologna is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1130/month in Bologna vs $1616/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Bologna or Lisbon?▾
Bologna is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Bologna has a rate of 0.57 per 100,000 and Lisbon has 0.69 per 100,000.
Should I move to Bologna or Lisbon?▾
Lisbon scores 79 to Bologna's 68 on livability — the gap is real. Bologna has its charms, but the numbers favor Lisbon. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Bologna or Lisbon?▾
Bologna: no specific remote work visa. Lisbon: Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 2 years (renewable for 3-year periods)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Bologna or Lisbon?▾
Bologna is warmer in summer (31°C vs 27°C). Lisbon has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
Can I live in Bologna or Lisbon without speaking the local language?▾
Lisbon is easier for street-level English (72/100) than Bologna (29/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.
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