Cost of living in Porto for students: how much you'll need per month in 2026

Compared to Lisbon or other European capitals, Porto remains a more affordable option.

However, the cost of living in Porto for students depends largely on your lifestyle and, above all, on the type of housing you choose.

If you're thinking about studying in the city, here's a comprehensive guide with actual prices to help you plan your budget.

Student housing in Porto, Portugal is undoubtedly the biggest expense.

Main options:

College dormitories

• €500 – €900 / month
• Included services
• Campus life

Room in a shared apartment

• €300–€600 per month
• More affordable
• Fewer services

Many students choose university housing in Porto, such as StepHouse in Porto, because it simplifies the experience and helps avoid unexpected extra costs.

If you'd like to learn more, you can also check out guides like the one from StepHouse on living in Porto as a Spanish student, which explains the different housing options in more detail.

Porto makes it fairly easy to keep track of these expenses.

Average costs:

• Groceries: €150–€250 per month
• Eating out occasionally: €8–€15

Tips:

• Shop at local supermarkets
• Take advantage of the daily specials
• Try francesinhas at affordable spots

Food is one of the most flexible parts of the budget.

Porto's public transportation system uses the Andantecard.

Advantages:

• Student discounts
• Access to the subway and buses
• Good access to the university campus in Asprela

It is essential for those who live outside the city center.

If you're planning to study in this area, it's worth checking out resources like StepHouse's guides on studying in Porto and the Asprela campus, which provide a clearer picture of the day-to-day logistics.

One of the best things about Porto is that you can enjoy the city without spending too much.

Free options:

• Walks along the Ribeira
• Gardens and Lookout Points
• Cultural events

Paid entertainment:

• Bars and nightclubs
• Concerts
• Restaurants

The balance between free and paid options makes Porto an ideal city for students.

In addition to the essentials, there are other additional costs:

• Cell phone: €10–€20
• Academic materials: €20–€50
• Extras: €30 – €100

Porto stands out for being more affordable without compromising on quality of life.

Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference.

Options such as StepHouse in Porto help you better control your expenses, since they include utilities and are located near university areas, which also reduces transportation costs.

Yes, it's more affordable than Lisbon and other European capitals.

On average, between €300 and €600.

Yes, the Andante card offers student discounts.

Between €800 and €1,100 for an average lifestyle.

Porto is an excellent choice for students looking for a high quality of life without excessive costs.

With good planning and smart decisions—especially when it comes to housing—it’s possible to live well and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Choose solutions designed for students, such as StepHouse can make this process much easier, helping you stay on budget and adapt more quickly to university life in Porto.