City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Lisbon vs Berlin — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Lisbon
Tight Budget
COL+Rent: 43.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo barely covers basics in Lisbon.
Berlin
Tight Budget
COL+Rent: 43.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo barely covers basics in Berlin.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Lisbon | Berlin | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $892 | $729 | +$163 |
| Groceries | $208 | $250 | $42 |
| Dining Out | $135 | $164 | $29 |
| Transportation | $34 | $48 | $14 |
| Utilities | $98 | $199 | $101 |
| Other / Misc | $133 | $110 | +$23 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Lisbon
$1,500
per month
Berlin equivalent
$1,500
per month
Similar purchasing power.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Lisbon on $1,500/month?
Living in Lisbon on $1,500/mo is rated "Tight Budget". Budget allocates ~$892 to rent, $208 to groceries, $135 to dining.
Can I live in Berlin on $1,500/month?
In Berlin, $1,500/mo is rated "Tight Budget". Allocations: $729 rent, $250 groceries, $164 dining.
Is Lisbon or Berlin cheaper?
Both cities are similarly priced. COL+Rent: Lisbon 43.8 vs Berlin 43.8 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Lisbon worth in Berlin?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Lisbon equals ~$1,500/mo in Berlin using COL adjustment.