Minimum wage in Portugal 2025: is it really worth it?

Portugal remains a destination of interest for Brazilians seeking financial improvements. But when it comes to the minimum wage in Portugal, the numbers need to be analyzed carefully. In 2025, the floor is (€870 per month) in the mainland region — an increase of €50 compared to 2024. It seems attractive at first glance, but the calculation changes when you deduct mandatory Social Security contributions and compare it with the actual cost of living.

The net salary you actually receive

Here’s the detail that many ignore: earning €870 gross does not mean taking €870 home.

Mandatory deductions:

• Social Security: 11% (€95.70) — this deduction is mandatory for everyone
• IRS (Income Tax): varies depending on dependents and family situation

In practice, those earning the minimum wage in Portugal take home approximately €774 net — after Social Security deductions. If there is IRS withholding, it drops even further.

Converting to reais: €870 corresponds to about R$5,580 to R$5,600, depending on the exchange rate. It seems three times the Brazilian minimum wage (R$1,518), but remember: you have already paid 11% before even receiving it.

Real comparison: Portugal vs Brazil

The question that matters is not the gross number, but how much you can spend at the end of the month.

In Portugal:

• Minimum wage: €870
• Estimated net salary: €770 (after Social Security)
• Cost of living for 1 person: €1,800/month

In Brazil:

• Minimum wage: R$1,518
• Usually lower deductions (8-10%)
• Variable cost of living depending on region

The difference? In Portugal, you earn more, but also spend much more on housing, food, and services. In major cities like Lisbon and Porto, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in a typical neighborhood costs around €1,005/month — more than half of the net salary.

How much do you earn per hour in Portugal?

With the standard 40-hour workweek and minimum wage in Portugal:

• Hourly wage: ~€4.94
• Half-time: ~€435/month
• Total monthly (176 hours): €870

Qualified professions earn 2 to 4 times more per hour, making Portugal much more attractive for those with professional training or experience.

Evolution of Portugal’s minimum wage

The Portuguese government has been gradually increasing the minimum wage:

• 2023: €705
• 2024: €820
• 2025: €870
• Forecast until 2026: continued adjustments

Despite these increases, Portugal still maintains one of the lowest minimum wages in Western Europe — according to Eurostat data. The policy follows a trajectory of convergence with the European average, but the path is still long.

Regional variations: Madeira and Azores

Autonomous regions pay a bit more:

• Madeira: €913.50
• Azores: €915

The difference is small but can make some impact on financial planning.

Main costs in Portugal

Food:

• Fast food meal: €8
• Set menu in a restaurant: €12
• Chicken (500g): €3.36
• Cheese (500g): €4.90

Housing (monthly prices):

• Studio in a typical area: €729
• 2-bedroom apartment in a typical area: €1,005
• 2-bedroom apartment in a upscale neighborhood: €1,518

Recurring expenses:

• Gym: €34
• Gas + electricity + water: €112
• Monthly transportation pass: €35
• Gasoline: €1.69/liter
• Medical consultation: €65

Is it feasible to live only on the minimum wage?

The answer depends on three factors: where you live, how you spend, and what your fixed expenses are.

In smaller and less expensive cities, it’s possible but with significant financial restrictions. In Lisbon and Porto, living on €870 or €774 net requires extremely strict control and little room for unforeseen expenses.

A family of 4 needs approximately €3,304/month to live comfortably in Portugal — well above two minimum wages.

Who should consider Portugal?

Skilled workers: earn above the minimum and have significantly higher purchasing power

People transitioning careers: Portugal is accessible for starting over, with lower living costs than countries like the UK, Ireland, or Switzerland

Retirees: lower costs make life in Europe easier

Freelance professionals: if income is in foreign currency or above average

Those earning only the minimum: it can be challenging, especially in large urban centers

Conclusion

The minimum wage in Portugal 2025 of €870 is higher than the Brazilian in nominal terms, but the real story is much more complex. After mandatory deductions, you are left with about €774 to live in a country where the cost of living is significantly higher than in Brazil.

Deciding to move to Portugal should not be based solely on the minimum wage, but on a comprehensive analysis: your profession, earning potential, city chosen, opportunities for advancement, and medium- to long-term goals. For those with qualifications and experience, Portugal offers interesting prospects. For those relying solely on the floor wage, careful planning and adaptation to the local lifestyle are necessary.