Cost of Living in Brazil: Why Santa Catarina Is a Smart Move for Foreigners

If you’re coming from the U.S., Canada, or Europe, the first thing you’ll notice when exploring life in Brazil — especially in Santa Catarina — is this:

Your money goes further. A lot further.

While the idea of moving to another country often raises concerns about affordability, Brazil’s current economic climate offers something rare: a favorable exchange rate, low cost of living, and high quality of life — all in one place.

💱 Currency Advantage: Strong Dollar, Smart Investment

As of early 2025, the U.S. dollar trades between R$4.80 and R$5.30, depending on the day.That means for every $1, you can access goods and services that would cost significantly more in North America or Europe.

For example:

Item	U.S. Average	Santa Catarina Average
2-bedroom city apartment (monthly)	$2,400	$650–$900
Fine dining for two	$120	$35–$45
Private health insurance	$400+	$90–$150
Cleaning services (per visit)	$80–$100	$20–$30

(Sources: Numbeo, Expatistan, local SC market data 2024)

This favorable exchange rate significantly increases the foreign buyer’s purchasing power, allowing you to live better, invest more, and enjoy more — for less.

🌍 Foreign Investment on the Rise

According to the Brazilian Central Bank, foreign direct investment (FDI) reached $62.2 billion in 2023, with real estate ranking among the top sectors.Much of this is driven by international buyers from the U.S., Canada, Argentina, Portugal, and Germany, who are seeking refuge from high costs and economic instability in their home countries.

In coastal cities like Balneário Camboriú, Florianópolis, and Itapema, there has been a notable increase in real estate purchases by foreigners seeking either vacation properties, permanent homes, or rental income opportunities.

📉 Compared to São Paulo or Rio? Big Difference.

While cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro continue to attract global attention, they also bring:

• Higher property prices (up to 2x Santa Catarina)

• Heavier traffic and urban density

• Increased personal and property security costs

• Higher cost of living across the board

  
  

In contrast, Santa Catarina offers clean cities, less bureaucracy, lower costs, and excellent infrastructure, making it one of the most cost-efficient regions in Brazil to live and invest.

🏖️ More Lifestyle, Less Stress

The true value of Santa Catarina is not just financial — it’s emotional.

Here, your dollar doesn’t just stretch — it transforms.It becomes ocean-view mornings, quality healthcare, safe streets, great schools, and the ability to slow down while living well.

And whether you’re investing in a beachfront apartment, a mountain retreat, or just a better lifestyle, you’re not compromising — you’re upgrading.

✦ High quality of life. Low cost of living. Unmatched value. That’s the Santa Catarina difference.