Cost of Living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Last updated on Mar 01, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is generally considered to be quite high. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Rio de Janeiro can range from $15 to $30 USD per person.
Is the cost of living in Rio de Janeiro high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Rio de Janeiro, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Rio de Janeiro is generally considered to be quite high. Rent prices in the city are among the highest in the country, and the cost of food and other necessities can also be quite expensive. Transportation costs are also relatively high, with public transportation fares being among the highest in the world. Despite the high cost of living, Rio de Janeiro remains a popular destination for tourists and expats alike," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.
Get Quote
Oliveira Lawyers is the foremost Brazilian law firm dedicated to representing the interests of foreign citizens in Brazil. From immigration to real estate and other life events, our bilingual attorneys got you covered! Main services include immigration, real estate, notary services, tax services, collections, family law, and litigation.
Oliveira Lawyers is the foremost Brazilian law firm dedicated to representing the interests of foreign citizens in Brazil. From immigration to real estate and other life events, our bilingual attorneys got you covered! Main services include immigration, real estate, notary services, tax services, collections, family law, and litigation.
Get Quote
Will I save money living in Rio de Janeiro?
"Living in Rio de Janeiro can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Rio de Janeiro is generally lower than in the United States, with rent, groceries, and transportation being much more affordable. Additionally, the Brazilian currency, the Real, is weaker than the US Dollar, making it easier to stretch your money further. As a result, living in Rio de Janeiro can be a great way to save money," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.
What is the average cost of housing in Rio de Janeiro?
If you are thinking about moving to Rio de Janeiro, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"Housing costs are expensive, I don't know much about it though, but cheaper than London," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.
"The average cost of housing in Rio de Janeiro is generally quite high, with prices ranging from moderately expensive to very expensive depending on the area and type of housing. Renting an apartment in the city center can be quite costly, while renting in the suburbs may be more affordable," explained one expat living in Rio de Janeiro.
Oliveira Lawyers is the foremost Brazilian law firm dedicated to representing the interests of foreign citizens in Brazil. From immigration to real estate and other life events, our bilingual attorneys got you covered! Main services include immigration, real estate, notary services, tax services, collections, family law, and litigation.
Oliveira Lawyers is the foremost Brazilian law firm dedicated to representing the interests of foreign citizens in Brazil. From immigration to real estate and other life events, our bilingual attorneys got you covered! Main services include immigration, real estate, notary services, tax services, collections, family law, and litigation.
What are typical rental prices for expats in Rio de Janeiro?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro, can range from around $500 to $1,500 per month. The rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, can range from around $800 to $2,500 per month," remarked one expat in Rio de Janeiro.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Rio de Janeiro what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Rio de Janeiro typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Some properties may also include a dishwasher, dryer, and other small appliances," wrote one expat.
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Rio de Janeiro?
- How do I find a place to live in Rio de Janeiro?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rio de Janeiro?
- What is the average cost of housing in Rio de Janeiro?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Rio de Janeiro?
- What should I pack when moving to Rio de Janeiro?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Rio de Janeiro?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Rio de Janeiro?
- What are healthcare services like in Rio de Janeiro?
- Is the cost of living in Rio de Janeiro high?
- Will I save money living in Rio de Janeiro?
- Why do people move to Rio de Janeiro?
- How are healthcare services in Rio de Janeiro?
- What are medical services in Rio de Janeiro like?