Sao Paulo, Brazil
Pros and Cons of Living in Sao Paulo
Last updated on May 01, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Sao Paulo, Brazil include its vibrant culture, diverse population, and excellent job opportunities. The city is also home to some of the best restaurants, nightlife, and shopping in the country. On the other hand, the cost of living in Sao Paulo is quite high, and the city is known for its high levels of crime and pollution. Additionally, the traffic can be quite congested, making it difficult to get around.
What are the pros and cons of living in Sao Paulo?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Sao Paulo responded:
"Expats and digital nomads generally like the vibrant and diverse culture of Sao Paulo, which offers a rich array of art, music, and culinary experiences. They appreciate the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere, with its mix of modern architecture and historical sites. The relatively low cost of living, compared to other major cities, is also a plus for many expats and digital nomads. Sao Paulo's extensive public transportation system, including buses and the metro, is generally reliable and affordable, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to get around the city. The city also offers a variety of coworking spaces, which cater to the needs of remote workers and provide opportunities for networking and collaboration. However, expats and digital nomads often dislike the high levels of crime and insecurity in Sao Paulo, which can make them feel unsafe, particularly in certain neighborhoods. The city's notorious traffic congestion can also be frustrating and time-consuming for those who need to commute or travel frequently. Additionally, the language barrier can be challenging for expats and digital nomads who do not speak Portuguese, as English is not widely spoken in Sao Paulo. This can make it difficult to navigate daily life, access services, and build social connections with locals. Finally, the city's pollution and lack of green spaces can be a downside for expats and digital nomads who value a clean and healthy environment. The noise and chaos of the city can also be overwhelming for some, leading them to seek out quieter, more peaceful places to live and work," said one in Sao Paulo.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a Quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Plus, get 10% Off Expat Health Insurance for Life through December 30, 2023.
Cigna Global HealthExpats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a Quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA. Plus, get 10% Off Expat Health Insurance for Life through December 30, 2023.
Get Quote
What do expats in Sao Paulo appreciate most about the local culture?
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.
