Cost of Living: Lisbon vs Stockholm (2026)
Portugal vs Sweden — relocation comparison
Wise ✓ · Wise ✓
Open incentive regimes for newcomers
Sourced from Numbeo · Updated April 2026
Sources: Numbeo · UNODC · Ookla · WHO · EIU · World Bank · Freedom House · Updated April 2026
Settler Essentials
Visa stamps:Easy <90 daysModerate 3–6 moComplex 6+ mo
Sources: EIU · Freedom House · Startup Genome · IEA · official immigration portals
Reproductive Rights
Because your body shouldn't need a visa too
On request up to 10 weeks since 2007 referendum. Mandatory 3-day reflection period.
On request up to 18 weeks. Between 18-22 weeks requires board approval.
Source: Center for Reproductive Rights
The Short Version
- •Rent is 11% cheaper in Lisbon ($1616/mo vs $1816/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are noticeably warmer in Lisbon (27°C vs 20°C).
- •Stockholm scores higher on democracy (9.4 vs 8.1 / 10 EIU).
Lisbon vs Stockholm — Common Questions
Is Lisbon cheaper than Stockholm?▾
Lisbon is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1616/month in Lisbon vs $1816/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Lisbon or Stockholm?▾
Lisbon is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Lisbon has a rate of 0.69 per 100,000 and Stockholm has 1.10 per 100,000.
Should I move to Lisbon or Stockholm?▾
Too close to call — 79 vs 75. Lisbon has a slight edge, but Stockholm might suit you better depending on your priorities. 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 Lisbon or Stockholm?▾
Lisbon: Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (moderate requirements, 2 years (renewable for 3-year periods)). Stockholm: Sweden Self-Employment Permit (complex process, 2 years (renewable)). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
Which has better weather, Lisbon or Stockholm?▾
Lisbon is warmer in summer (27°C vs 20°C). Stockholm has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.
What's the cost of rent in Lisbon vs Stockholm?▾
A 1-bedroom in the centre: $1616/month in Lisbon, $1816/month in Stockholm (Numbeo). That's 11% cheaper rent in Lisbon.
Is Lisbon or Stockholm better for democracy and rule of law?▾
Stockholm scores 9.4/10 on the EIU Democracy Index vs 8.1/10 for Lisbon. That puts it in 'full democracy' territory — free press, independent courts, the works.
Is healthcare better in Lisbon or Stockholm?▾
Lisbon scores higher on Numbeo's Healthcare Index (72/100 vs 66/100 for Stockholm). That index reflects resident perception of quality, cost, and access — not just whether hospitals exist but whether people trust them.
Plot twist: other matchups exist
Maybe the real city was the comparisons we made along the way.
Let the algorithm judge you
2 min quiz — surprisingly accurate
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