São PaulovsJakarta
Overall
💰-6.3%
São Paulo is 6.3%cheaper
Rent
🏠-16.7%
Housing is 16.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒+11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% more
Comparing the cost of living between São Paulo, Brazil and Jakarta, Indonesia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that São Paulo is more affordable than Jakarta by approximately 6.3%. 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 São Paulo are higher than in Jakarta by 20%. A one-bedroom apartment in São Paulo's city center costs around R$2,800, while the same in Jakarta is approximately IDR 8,000,000.
Dining out in São Paulo is notably more expensive compared to Jakarta. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in São Paulo versus IDR 35,000 in Jakarta.
Public transportation in São Paulo is more affordable, with monthly passes at R$230 compared to IDR 150,000 in Jakarta.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in São Paulo can expect to spend approximately R$1,250 per month (excluding rent), while in Jakarta, the same lifestyle would cost around IDR 3,350,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about R$4,375 monthly in São Paulo versus IDR 11,725,000 in Jakarta. 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
São Paulo
Jakarta
Frequently Asked Questions
Is São Paulo more expensive than Jakarta?
No, São Paulo is approximately 6.3% cheaper than Jakarta. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in São Paulo compared to Jakarta?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 94% of your Jakarta salary when living in São Paulo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Jakarta, you'd need about $47,059 in São Paulo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between São Paulo and Jakarta?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 20%, 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 São Paulo if you prioritize earning potential, or Jakarta for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for São Paulo vs Jakarta?
In São Paulo, a single person needs approximately R$3,050 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about R$7,875. In Jakarta, these figures are IDR 7,850,000 for singles and IDR 21,725,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between São Paulo and Jakarta 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 Jakarta to maintain your lifestyle from São Paulo
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