Cost of Living in Brazil: A Complete Guide for 2025

Introduction

Brazil is a country of contrasts — from bustling cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro to quiet coastal towns and rural villages. For foreigners considering moving, working, or retiring here, understanding the cost of living is essential.

In this complete guide, we’ll break down the expenses for housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment in 2025, along with regional differences and money-saving tips.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is often the largest expense for foreigners in Brazil. Prices vary dramatically depending on the city and neighborhood.

City 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center) 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Center)

São Paulo $700 – $1,200 USD $450 – $750 USD

Rio de Janeiro $650 – $1,100 USD $400 – $700 USD

Florianópolis $600 – $1,000 USD $400 – $650 USD

Salvador $350 – $700 USD $250 – $500 USD

💡 Tip: Negotiating rent is common in Brazil, especially for long-term leases.

2. Food and Groceries

Eating out in Brazil can be surprisingly affordable, especially at pratos feitos (set lunch plates) and local markets.

Item Average Price (USD)

Meal at inexpensive restaurant $5 – $8

Meal for two at mid-range restaurant $20 – $35

Coffee $1.50 – $2.501

liter of milk $1.10

1 kg of rice $1.20

1 kg of chicken $3.50

💡 Tip: Shopping at open-air markets (feiras livres) is cheaper and fresher than supermarkets.

3. Transportation

Public transport is widely available and affordable, though quality varies by city.

Mode Average Price

Bus ticket $0.80 – $1.50

Metro ticket (São Paulo, Rio) Around $1.00

Taxi (per km) $0.80 – $1.20

Gasoline (per liter) $1.20 – $1.50

💡 Tip: Many cities now offer app-based ride services like Uber and 99, which are often cheaper than taxis.

4. Healthcare

Brazil offers both public (SUS) and private healthcare. Many foreigners opt for private plans due to shorter waiting times.

Service Average Price

Private health insurance $50 – $200

MonthGeneral doctor consultation $25 – $50

Dental cleaning $20 – $40

💡 Tip: If staying long-term, consider comprehensive health insurance — it’s more affordable here than in many Western countries.

5. Entertainment and Lifestyle

Brazil is full of low-cost entertainment options, from free festivals to affordable cinema tickets.

ActivityAverage PriceMovie ticket$4 – $7Monthly gym membership$20 – $50Night out (dinner + drinks)$20 – $50

6. Regional Cost Differences

• Most Expensive: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília

• Most Affordable: Smaller cities in the Northeast (João Pessoa, Maceió, Teresina)

• Balanced Lifestyle: Florianópolis, Curitiba, Belo Horizonte

  
  

7. Monthly Budget Examples

Budget Lifestyle (Single Person)

• Housing: $400

• Food: $200

• Transport: $60

• Miscellaneous: $100
  Total: ~$760/month

Comfortable Lifestyle (Single Person)

• Housing: $800

• Food: $350

• Transport: $100

• Miscellaneous: $200
  Total: ~$1,450/month

8. Money-Saving Tips

1. Rent outside city centers for cheaper housing.

2. Eat at self-service restaurants instead of international chains.

3. Use public transport or rideshare apps.

4. Take advantage of free cultural events.

   
   

Conclusion

The cost of living in Brazil in 2025 remains attractive for many foreigners, especially compared to Europe and North America. Whether you’re a digital nomad, retiree, or investor, Brazil offers a range of lifestyle options to fit different budgets.