Is Lisbon or Zagreb cheaper to live in?

Zagreb is 32% cheaper than Lisbon. The average monthly cost in Zagreb is $1,378, while Lisbon costs $2,012 per month.

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

For digital nomads, Zagreb offers faster internet at 150 Mbps. Zagreb is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Lisbon has a NomadIQ score of 7/10 while Zagreb scores 7.8/10.

What is the rent difference between Lisbon and Zagreb?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,527/month in Lisbon and $865/month in Zagreb. Zagreb has 43% lower rent.

Is Lisbon or Zagreb safer?

Zagreb has a higher safety score of 7.9/10. Lisbon scores 6.7/10 for safety while Zagreb scores 7.9/10.

Should I move to Lisbon or Zagreb as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Zagreb if budget is important ($1,378/month). Choose Zagreb for better safety. Zagreb is better for remote work with 150 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Lisbon vs Zagreb

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/mo7/10

Zagreb

Croatia

$1,378/mo7.8/10

Lisbon

Portugal

$2,012/moNomadIQ 7/10

Zagreb

Croatia

$1,378/moNomadIQ 7.8/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Lisbon

Zagreb

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$2,012

$1,378

Zagreb

Rent (1BR)

$1,527

$865

Zagreb

Groceries

$300

$320

Lisbon

Transport

$50

$45

Zagreb

Healthcare

$100

$110

Lisbon

Safety Score

6.7/10

7.9/10

Zagreb

Internet Speed

100 Mbps

150 Mbps

Zagreb

NomadIQ Score

7/10

7.8/10

Zagreb

Overall Winner: Zagreb

Based on our comparison, Zagreb wins 6 out of 8 categories.Lisbon wins 2 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Zagreb

$1,378/mo

Best Internet

Zagreb

150 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Zagreb

7.8/10

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

Digital Nomad Analysis: Lisbon vs Zagreb

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

Cost of Living: Zagreb is the more budget-friendly option at $1,378/month versus Lisbon's $2,012/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Zagreb provides faster connectivity at 150 Mbps compared to Lisbon's 100 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 7.9/10, Zagreb offers better security than Lisbon (6.7/10).

Overall: Zagreb's NomadIQ score of 7.8/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Zagreb is 32% cheaper than Lisbon.

• Lisbon rent: $1,527/mo
• Zagreb rent: $865/mo
• Difference: $663/mo

Safety Comparison

Zagreb has a higher safety score (7.9/10) compared to Lisbon (6.7/10).

6.7/10

Lisbon

7.9/10

Zagreb

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Zagreb offers faster internet at 150 Mbps vs 100 Mbps.

100 Mbps

Lisbon

150 Mbps

Zagreb

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Zagreb edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 6 of 8 comparison factors.

Lisbon: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Zagreb: Best for budget-conscious expats

Lisbon vs Zagreb

Lisbon

Zagreb

Lisbon

Zagreb

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Zagreb

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Lisbon vs Zagreb

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Lisbon vs Zagreb