Living in Brazil: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Brazil

Living in Brazil

Last updated on Mar 09, 2023

Summary: The approximate population of Brazil is 212 million people. The largest cities in Brazil are Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, and Salvador. Expats love living in Brazil for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and friendly people. Life in Brazil is often described as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong emphasis on family and community. Popular foods in Brazil include feijoada (a stew of black beans and pork), churrasco (barbecue), and acarajé (a deep-fried bean cake). The cons of living in Brazil include high crime rates, poor infrastructure, and a high cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $2,000 to $3,000 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.

What do I need to know about living in Brazil?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Brazil, they said:

"Before retiring in Brazil, expats should be aware of the different types of visas available. They should also be aware of the tax implications that come with becoming an expat. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the Brazilian culture and language, especially if they plan to be living there for a longer period of time. Furthermore, it is important to research all available options and compare the costs of healthcare, housing, and other necessities in the areas they are considering. Lastly, expats should consider hiring a local lawyer who is familiar with the laws and regulations of their chosen location," wrote a member in Brazil.

"Great place to live; perfect climate; friendly people. Come with a job in view and leave your valuables in your home country. You are going to have the time of your life," commented one expat who made the move to Rio de Janeiro.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

Expat Health Insurance in Brazil

Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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How do I meet people in Brazil?

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.