Moving to Portugal in 2025? How much do you really earn and what’s left at the end of the month

Do you know what the minimum wage in Portugal will be in 2025? Many people hear about €870 and immediately think it’s a fortune compared to Brazil — but the reality is much more complex. When you deduct the 11% that go to Social Security, that amount drops to around €774. So? Is it still worth it?

The minimum wage in Portugal increased — but by how much exactly?

In 2025, Portugal adjusted the floor to €870 per month on the mainland. In the islands, the story is a bit different:

• Madeira stayed at €913.50
• Azores at €915

This is an increase from the €820 in 2024 — the government has been gradually raising it and promises to continue until 2026. Converting to reais, it’s about R$ 5,500 to R$ 5,600 (depending on the exchange rate). Seems high? Let’s see.

The deductions you can’t ignore

Here’s the part many people don’t calculate:

• 11% Social Security (mandatory, unavoidable)
• IRS — the Portuguese income tax, which varies depending on your family situation

Practical example:

• Salary: €870
• Social Security: -€95.70
• Remaining: €774.30 (without IRS)

If IRS is withheld, the final number could be even lower. It’s far from that €870 they announce.

Now, the tricky part: how much does it cost to live there?

According to recent data, the monthly cost of living is:

• 1 person alone: €1,800
• Family of 4: €3,304

Portugal is the 2nd cheapest country in Western Europe, but “cheaper” is relative when you take €774 of minimum wage into account.

A rental bed in a common area costs about €729/month (T0/studio). A T2 in a typical neighborhood? €1,005. And that doesn’t include food, transportation, and other expenses.

Basic food:

• Chicken 500g: €3.36
• Cheese 500g: €4.90
• Monthly transit pass: €35
• Gasoline: €1.69/liter

Can you live only on minimum wage? Technically, yes — but…

Yes, you can. But with heavy restrictions. You can get by in small towns with strict control. In Lisbon or Porto? That’s a whole different story. The margin for error disappears.

The truth that no one talks about: those working at the minimum in Portugal are usually still studying, supported by family, or have some extra income. Pure minimum wage is survival, not a comfortable life.

Portugal vs Brazil: where do you earn and where do you lose?

Gross numbers: Portugal pays €870 (≈R$ 5,500) versus R$ 1,518 in Brazil. Looks like a big jump — but let’s look at the deductions:

In Portugal, you immediately pay 11% for Social Security + IRS. In Brazil, deductions are usually lower for those earning the minimum.

The net salary in Portugal is around €770. That’s closer, right?

But then comes the cost of living:

• Portugal: expensive for housing, standard European food
• Brazil: more affordable housing in many regions, but some costs are proportionally high

Who really benefits from this? Skilled professionals

If you have education, experience, or a demanded profession, the story changes completely. Technicians, engineers, developers, and specialized fields earn 2x, 3x, or even more than the minimum. Then, Portugal offers a much better scenario than Brazil.

Conclusion: is it worth it or not?

It depends on what you want:

For those earning only the minimum wage: it’s a big cut in your standard of living. Requires planning and the right city.

For skilled professionals: Portugal offers more financial security, social benefits, and medium-term growth prospects.

The decision isn’t just about math — it’s about analyzing your profession, the city you’ll choose, and whether the growth opportunities justify the move. Research thoroughly before taking the plunge!