Generally, Cascais is not cheaper than Lisbon in 2026; in many categories, it is actually more expensive. While Lisbon has the highest overall rental prices for city-center apartments (ranging from €1,000 to €2,200 for a one-bedroom), Cascais is a premium coastal enclave where luxury villas and upscale seaside apartments can command even higher premiums, with utilities and internet often costing 10–20% more than in the capital. Groceries and everyday dining costs are comparable, but the "luxury tax" of being in a resort town means that mid-range restaurants in Cascais often lean toward the pricier side. For a single person, a monthly budget including rent in Cascais often starts around €1,300 to €1,500, similar to Lisbon's core. If you are looking for true affordability in Portugal, moving further inland to cities like Braga or Coimbra will offer a significantly lower cost of living than either the bustling capital or the high-end coast.