Portugal 2025: How Much Do Those Who Work in the Country Earn and Spend?

The minimum wage in Portugal continues to be a key point for Brazilians considering a career move. In 2025, the amount reached €870 per month on the mainland, an increase from €820 in the previous cycle. In the islands, the figures are slightly higher: Madeira (€913.50) and Azores (€915). But how much of that is left in your pocket? And is it really advantageous compared to Brazil?

Mandatory Deductions: How Much Do You Really Take Home

Here’s the point many underestimate. From gross to net, there are significant withholdings:

Social Security: 11% mandatory for all workers — €95.70 on the minimum

IRS (Income Tax): Applied progressively based on income and dependents — can vary quite a bit

Practical scenario: someone earning €870 and paying only Social Security keeps €774.30. With IRS withholding, it drops even further. It’s important to note that Portugal offers tax exemptions for incomes below certain thresholds, benefiting especially those earning only the minimum.

Salary Progression: Where Is Portugal Headed

The Portuguese government maintains an annual adjustment policy. The progression from previous years shows a commitment to approaching the European average — although the country remains among those with the lowest minimum wages in Western Europe according to Eurostat. This gradual appreciation trend is relevant for those planning a medium-term career.

Cost of Living in Portugal: The Other Side of the Coin

Data from Expatistan reveal an important reality: Portugal is the 2nd cheapest country in Western Europe, but that is relative.

Estimated monthly budget:

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

Food (costs):

• Fast food: €8
• Set menu (restaurant): €12
• 500g chicken: €3.36
• 500g cheese: €4.90

Housing (T2 apartment, 85m²):

• Noble neighborhoods: €1,518
• Common areas: €1,005
• Studio (shared area): €729

Recurring expenses:

• Gasoline: €1.69/liter
• Monthly transportation: €35
• Electricity, water, gas: €112
• Gym: €34
• Private medical consultation: €65

Portugal Minimum Wage x Brazil: The Real Equation

Converting the Portuguese minimum wage to reais yields impressive numbers: €870 ≈ R$5,584. It seems advantageous — and it is nominally. However, the context reveals nuances.

In Portugal, after deductions, disposable income hovers around €770. In Brazil, despite the minimum wage being R$1,518, deductions are proportionally smaller. Result: both retain similar portions of gross income.

The difference lies in:

• Professional qualification: Specialized careers earn 2 to 4 times more in Portugal
• Cost of living: Higher in Lisbon and Porto, more affordable inland
• Growth (medium-long term): Better structural opportunities within the European Union

Hourly Wage and Career Perspectives by Profession

With a 176-hour monthly work schedule (standard 40h/week), the minimum hourly wage is €4.94. Qualified professions — technology, health, management — significantly surpass this level, enhancing Portugal’s competitive advantage for experienced workers.

Is It Feasible to Live Earning the Minimum Wage?

It depends. In major cities (Lisbon, Porto), the budget becomes extremely tight. In the interior or medium-sized cities, it’s possible with structured planning. Lifestyle, residential zone choice, and growth opportunities are key factors.

Practical Analysis of Moving to Portugal

Before deciding, consider:

• Your profession: What is the demand in the Portuguese market? How much do they pay above the minimum?
• Location: Lisbon/Porto vs. inland drastically changes the calculation
• Goals: Stability, quality of life, or accelerated salary growth?
• Time horizon: Short-term (up to 1 year) vs. career building (5+ years)

For qualified workers with valued experience in the European market, Portugal offers a favorable scenario. For those limited to the minimum wage, it’s possible but requires discipline and regional adaptation.

Conclusion

Portugal’s minimum wage in 2025 is attractive in absolute figures, but practical reality depends on multifactorial analysis. It’s not enough to compare nominal numbers — one must evaluate real purchasing power, tax burden, demand for your specific profession, and lifestyle preferences. The best decision arises from this comprehensive analysis, not just a column of numbers.