How much is left in your pocket with the minimum wage in Portugal? 2025 Guide for those who want to make a change

Have you ever stopped to consider how much of the minimum wage in Portugal actually remains after taxes? The answer is not as simple as it seems. In 2025, the official amount reached €870 monthly on the mainland, but what you effectively take home is quite different.

The minimum wage in Portugal has increased, but how much of that is yours?

Portugal adjusted the minimum wage from €820 (2024) to €870 (2025), a €50 increase per month. In autonomous regions, the amount is slightly higher: Madeira offers €913.50 and Azores €915. Converting to reais, this Portuguese minimum wage corresponds to approximately R$5,584, more than three times the Brazilian minimum wage of R$1,518.

But here comes the important detail: before celebrating, you need to deduct 11% for Social Security (mandatory) and possible income tax depending on your situation. In the end, those €870 drop to approximately €774 net — a difference of nearly €100.

How much does it cost to live in Portugal?

Life on Portuguese soil is more expensive than in Brazil, especially in major cities. An individual spends on average €1,800 per month, while a family of 4 spends €3,304. Portugal remains the second cheapest country in Western Europe, but this is relative when compared to Brazilian costs.

In practice:

• Housing: a T2 in a common neighborhood costs €1,005, in a prime area €1,518
• Food: executive menu €12, chicken 500g €3.36
• Transport: monthly pass €35, gasoline €1.69/liter
• Bills: electricity, water, and gas combined cost €112

The puzzle of numbers: Portugal vs Brazil

Nominally, Portugal pays more. In reais, the difference is huge. But when you put the actual expenses on paper:

In Portugal with minimum wage: €870 gross - €95.70 (Social Security) = approximately €774 net. Of this amount, almost €1,005 goes just to rent in a simple apartment, and you’re already in the red without counting food, transportation, or internet.

In Brazil with minimum wage: R$1,518 has proportionally smaller deductions, and the rent in many cities is more affordable relative to the salary. This does not mean a better situation — it means the math is less disastrous.

The big advantage of Portugal? Those with professional qualifications earn two, three, or even four times more than the minimum wage. Specialized professions, technology, healthcare earn significantly better.

Where in Portugal can you live better with this salary?

If you earn the minimum wage, Lisbon and Porto are financial traps. Housing, food, and leisure consume all income. Medium and small cities offer more breathing room — rent is 30-40% cheaper outside the big centers.

Is it possible to live? Yes, but it requires sacrifices in large cities and careful planning. In smaller towns, life is much more comfortable.

Hourly wage in Portugal

With €870 divided by the 176 monthly hours (standard 40h/week), you earn approximately €4.94 per hour. Part-time would be around €435. Specialized professions double, triple, or quadruple this hourly rate.

Is it worth migrating just for the minimum wage?

The honest answer is no. The minimum wage in Portugal is higher in absolute values, but the real difference in your pocket is less than it appears. The move makes sense for:

• Those with qualifications and able to secure positions above the minimum
• Those seeking stability, robust healthcare, and social security systems
• Those planning professional progression in the medium to long term
• Those wanting to live in smaller cities where cost-benefit is better

For those earning only the minimum wage, it’s important to consider:

• Real opportunities for growth in your chosen field
• The specific cost of living in the region where you will live
• Whether your profession is in demand in the Portuguese market
• Your personal goals beyond just earning more

Conclusion: numbers are only half the story

In 2025, Portugal’s minimum wage of €870 continues to attract interest among Brazilians, especially when they see the converted value in reais. But financial reality depends more than just absolute numbers: it depends on where you work, where you live, your education, and how you plan your future.

The best decision is not just comparing minimum wages. It’s analyzing the earning potential in your specific profession, investigating the real costs of the chosen city, understanding the tax burden that actually impacts your pocket, and, most importantly, having clarity about your medium and long-term goals. Portugal can be an excellent option — but it must be the right choice for your specific case.