Rio de JaneirovsLima
Overall
💰-6.7%
Rio de Janeiro is 6.7%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-7.9%
Restaurants 7.9% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+7.1%
Food shopping 7.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Rio de Janeiro is more affordable than Lima 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 Rio de Janeiro are similar than in Lima. A one-bedroom apartment in Rio de Janeiro's city center costs around R$2,500, while the same in Lima is approximately PEN 2,000.
Dining out in Rio de Janeiro costs about the same compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in Rio de Janeiro versus PEN 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in Rio de Janeiro is more expensive, with monthly passes at R$190 compared to PEN 100 in Lima.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Rio de Janeiro can expect to spend approximately R$1,114 per month (excluding rent), while in Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PEN 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about R$3,899 monthly in Rio de Janeiro versus PEN 3,035 in Lima. 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 Lima to Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro to Lima 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
Rio de Janeiro
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rio de Janeiro more expensive than Lima?
No, Rio de Janeiro is approximately 6.7% cheaper than Lima. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Rio de Janeiro compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Lima salary when living in Rio de Janeiro. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $46,875 in Rio de Janeiro for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Rio de Janeiro and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 9%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Lima offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Rio de Janeiro provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Rio de Janeiro if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Lima for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Rio de Janeiro vs Lima?
In Rio de Janeiro, a single person needs approximately R$2,714 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about R$6,899. In Lima, these figures are PEN 2,067 for singles and PEN 5,235 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Rio de Janeiro and Lima 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 Lima to maintain your lifestyle from Rio de Janeiro
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