What is left after rent: couples keep 9,140 euros in Zurich, only 253 in Lisbon
An analysis by the Deutsche Bank Research Institute compares salaries and rents in European cities. Berlin sits mid-table, while in Lisbon and Istanbul rent eats up almost two incomes.
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How much money does a couple have left after paying the rent on a three-bedroom flat in the city centre? On 16 October Euronews published a comparison based on the Deutsche Bank Research Institute's report "Mapping the World's Prices 2026". The calculation takes two average net salaries minus rent; food, bills and transport are not included.
Zurich leads in Europe: one net salary there is around 7,321 euros a month, rent 5,502 euros, leaving a couple about 9,140 euros. Geneva follows with 8,783 euros and Luxembourg with 5,890 euros. Frankfurt (4,786 euros) and Munich (4,575 euros) also rank high. In Berlin, one net salary is 2,946 euros and rent 2,339 euros, leaving about 3,554 euros. London, with rent of 4,362 euros, comes to 3,148 euros.
Lisbon is the tightest: with a salary of 1,408 euros and rent of 2,561 euros, only 253 euros remain. In Istanbul it is 353 euros, in Milan 697 euros. According to the analysis, a single salary does not cover such a rent in Athens, Barcelona, Budapest, Dublin, London, Madrid, Prague and Rome. Globally, Manila and Bangkok fare worst, with minus 882 and minus 759 euros left after rent. Sofia is not mentioned in the Euronews analysis.
This article is for information only and is not legal, tax, financial or medical advice. Figures as of the date stated.