Is Lisbon or Manila cheaper to live in?

Manila is 49% cheaper than Lisbon. The average monthly cost in Manila is $1,021, while Lisbon costs $2,012 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Lisbon offers faster internet at 100 Mbps. Manila is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Lisbon has a NomadIQ score of 7/10 while Manila scores 7.3/10.

What is the rent difference between Lisbon and Manila?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,527/month in Lisbon and $560/month in Manila. Manila has 63% lower rent.

Is Lisbon or Manila safer?

Lisbon has a higher safety score of 6.7/10. Lisbon scores 6.7/10 for safety while Manila scores 3.5/10.

Should I move to Lisbon or Manila as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Manila if budget is important ($1,021/month). Choose Lisbon for better safety. Lisbon is better for remote work with 100 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Lisbon vs Manila

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/mo7/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/mo7.3/10

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/moNomadIQ 7/10

Manila

Philippines

$1,021/moNomadIQ 7.3/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Lisbon

Manila

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$2,012

$1,021

Manila

Rent (1BR)

$1,527

$560

Manila

Groceries

$300

$280

Manila

Transport

$50

$45

Manila

Healthcare

$100

$110

Lisbon

Safety Score

6.7/10

3.5/10

Lisbon

Internet Speed

100 Mbps

85 Mbps

Lisbon

NomadIQ Score

7/10

7.3/10

Manila

Overall Winner: Manila

Based on our comparison, Manila wins 5 out of 8 categories.Lisbon wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Manila

$1,021/mo

Best Internet

Lisbon

100 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Manila

7.3/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Lisbon vs Manila

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

Cost of Living: Manila is the more budget-friendly option at $1,021/month versus Lisbon's $2,012/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Lisbon leads with 100 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Manila offers 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 6.7/10, Lisbon provides a more secure environment than Manila (3.5/10).

Overall: Manila's NomadIQ score of 7.3/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Manila is 49% cheaper than Lisbon.

• Lisbon rent: $1,527/mo
• Manila rent: $560/mo
• Difference: $967/mo

Safety Comparison

Lisbon has a higher safety score (6.7/10) compared to Manila (3.5/10).

6.7/10

Lisbon

3.5/10

Manila

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Lisbon offers faster internet at 100 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

100 Mbps

Lisbon

85 Mbps

Manila

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Manila edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 5 of 8 comparison factors.

Lisbon: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Manila: Best for budget-conscious expats

Lisbon vs Manila

Lisbon

Manila

Lisbon

Manila

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Manila

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Lisbon vs Manila

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Lisbon vs Manila