Brazil
Cost of Living in São Paulo
Monthly Total
$1,588
$27,790
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$713
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$29
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/14/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$713
$12,478
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$117
$2,048
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$140
$2,450
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$96
$1,680
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$150
$2,625
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$204
$3,570
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$120
$2,100
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$48
$840
Monthly Total
$1,588
$27,790
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Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
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Living in São Paulo
São Paulo is Brazil's most expensive city but still offers 40-50% savings vs US metros. Expect to pay premium for neighborhoods like Jardins and Pinheiros. Budget-conscious expats can find deals in Moema, Butantã, or outside the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
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