JakartavsSão Paulo
Overall
💰+6.7%
Jakarta is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠+20.0%
Housing is 20.0% higher
Dining
🍽️+14.3%
Restaurants 14.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒-10.0%
Food shopping 10.0% less
Comparing the cost of living between Jakarta, Indonesia and São Paulo, Brazil reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Jakarta is more expensive than São Paulo by approximately 6.7%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Jakarta are lower than in São Paulo by 17%. A one-bedroom apartment in Jakarta's city center costs around IDR 8,000,000, while the same in São Paulo is approximately R$2,800.
Dining out in Jakarta offers significant savings compared to São Paulo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs IDR 35,000 in Jakarta versus R$30 in São Paulo.
Public transportation in Jakarta is more expensive, with monthly passes at IDR 150,000 compared to R$230 in São Paulo.
Grocery shopping in Jakarta is more expensive by approximately 11%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Jakarta can expect to spend approximately IDR 3,350,000 per month (excluding rent), while in São Paulo, the same lifestyle would cost around R$1,250. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about IDR 11,725,000 monthly in Jakarta versus R$4,375 in São Paulo. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Jakarta to São Paulo, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from São Paulo to Jakarta requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Jakarta
São Paulo
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jakarta more expensive than São Paulo?
Yes, Jakarta is approximately 6.7% more expensive than São Paulo overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Jakarta compared to São Paulo?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your São Paulo salary when living in Jakarta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in São Paulo, you'd need about $53,333 in Jakarta for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Jakarta and São Paulo?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 17%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
São Paulo offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Jakarta if you prioritize cultural experiences, or São Paulo for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Jakarta vs São Paulo?
In Jakarta, a single person needs approximately IDR 7,850,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about IDR 21,725,000. In São Paulo, these figures are R$3,050 for singles and R$7,875 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Jakarta and São Paulo in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in São Paulo to maintain your lifestyle from Jakarta
Calculate Salary Equivalence