Is Chicago or Lisbon cheaper to live in?

Lisbon is 39% cheaper than Chicago. The average monthly cost in Lisbon is $2,012, while Chicago costs $3,310 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Chicago offers faster internet at 220 Mbps. Lisbon is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Chicago has a NomadIQ score of 4.8/10 while Lisbon scores 7/10.

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Lisbon?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $2,471/month in Chicago and $1,527/month in Lisbon. Lisbon has 38% lower rent.

Is Chicago or Lisbon safer?

Lisbon has a higher safety score of 6.7/10. Chicago scores 3.4/10 for safety while Lisbon scores 6.7/10.

Should I move to Chicago or Lisbon as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Lisbon if budget is important ($2,012/month). Choose Lisbon for better safety. Chicago is better for remote work with 220 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Chicago vs Lisbon

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Chicago

United States

$3,310/mo4.8/10

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/mo7/10

Chicago

United States

$3,310/moNomadIQ 4.8/10

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/moNomadIQ 7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Chicago

Lisbon

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$3,310

$2,012

Lisbon

Rent (1BR)

$2,471

$1,527

Lisbon

Groceries

$430

$300

Lisbon

Transport

$120

$50

Lisbon

Healthcare

$220

$100

Lisbon

Safety Score

3.4/10

6.7/10

Lisbon

Internet Speed

220 Mbps

100 Mbps

Chicago

NomadIQ Score

4.8/10

7/10

Lisbon

Overall Winner: Lisbon

Based on our comparison, Lisbon wins 7 out of 8 categories.Chicago wins 1 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Chicago and Lisbon, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Lisbon

$2,012/mo

Best Internet

Chicago

220 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Lisbon

7/10

Our Recommendation: Lisbon is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Chicago vs Lisbon

When comparing Chicago and Lisbon for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Lisbon is the more budget-friendly option at $2,012/month versus Chicago's $3,310/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Chicago leads with 220 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Lisbon offers 100 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.7/10, Lisbon offers better security than Chicago (3.4/10).

Overall: Lisbon's NomadIQ score of 7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Lisbon is 39% cheaper than Chicago.

• Chicago rent: $2,471/mo
• Lisbon rent: $1,527/mo
• Difference: $944/mo

Safety Comparison

Lisbon has a higher safety score (6.7/10) compared to Chicago (3.4/10).

3.4/10

Chicago

6.7/10

Lisbon

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Chicago offers faster internet at 220 Mbps vs 100 Mbps.

220 Mbps

Chicago

100 Mbps

Lisbon

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Lisbon edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 7 of 8 comparison factors.

Chicago: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Lisbon: Best for budget-conscious expats

Chicago vs Lisbon

Chicago

Lisbon

Chicago

Lisbon

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Lisbon

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Chicago vs Lisbon

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Chicago vs Lisbon