The square meter price of an apartment cost on average over 3,000 U.S. dollars, with Leblon achieving prices as high as 4,200 U.S. dollars per square meter.

Renting in Rio Rent in Rio de Janeiro is about 88% lower than in New York City, making it an extremely affordable city to live in. Even without factoring in rent, the overall cost of living is almost 60% lower than in NYC.

Usually, expats tend to stick to Ipanema, Leblon and Barra da Tijuca depending on their lifestyle. Barra da Tijuca tends to be more appropriate for families with kids due to the size of properties, safety and the surrounding areas. There are many malls in this area and there is a large expat community.

Some average living costs in São Paulo are (in BRL and USD): Monthly rent (1 bedroom apartment): 2300BRL ($430) Utilities (monthly average): 270BRL ($50) Monthly public transport pass: 275BRL ($50)