Portugal’s Top Earning Areas: Where Are People Making the Most Money?

Ever wondered where people earn the most in Portugal? Income levels vary significantly across the country, and some cities are clearly ahead when it comes to salaries.

The Leaders: Where Income Peaks

In 2022, the municipality of Oeiras took the top spot, with a median gross income of €15,190 per taxpayer. Close behind was Lisbon, coming in at €13,809. Other high-ranking areas included Alcochete (€12,874), Cascais (€12,843), and Coimbra (€12,557).

To put that into perspective, the national median income was just €10,679. That means most of the country earns noticeably less than residents in these top-tier cities.

Income by Region: A Clear Divide

Income levels tend to be higher in and around Lisbon. In fact, most municipalities with above-average earnings are part of the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.

In the north, Porto, Maia, and Matosinhos also show higher earnings, but still don’t match the Lisbon area’s figures. The rest of the country—especially more rural or inland regions—generally falls below the national median.

How Things Have Changed Over Time

This trend isn’t new. Even back in 2021, Oeiras and Lisbon were already leading the pack. The overall ranking has remained fairly consistent, with Lisbon’s surrounding municipalities continuing to dominate the top of the income chart.

At the same time, income inequality between urban and rural regions has stayed largely the same. While some towns have seen small improvements, many areas—particularly in the interior and north—still report much lower income levels.

Why Are Some Cities So Much Wealthier?

So why do places like Oeiras and Cascais outperform the rest? A few key reasons:

• They host many high-paying jobs—especially in tech, finance, and multinational companies.

• They’re close to economic and political centers, attracting both skilled professionals and businesses.

• Living costs are higher, and salaries often rise to match—but this doesn’t necessarily benefit all residents equally.

What This Means for You

If you’re thinking of moving within Portugal or starting a job here, it’s good to keep these regional differences in mind.

• Cities like Oeiras, Lisbon, and Cascais offer better earning potential, especially for professionals in high-demand sectors.

• Areas in Porto’s district also offer competitive salaries, but generally a bit lower.

• More rural towns may come with a lower cost of living—but also lower income opportunities.

Final Takeaway

Portugal’s income map reveals a strong urban-rural divide. While some areas offer excellent job prospects and higher pay, many parts of the country still face economic challenges. If you’re planning your career—or your next move—it’s worth considering how location affects income potential.