São PaulovsLima
Overall
💰-12.5%
São Paulo is 12.5%cheaper
Rent
🏠-6.7%
Housing is 6.7% lower
Dining
🍽️-12.5%
Restaurants 12.5% cheaper
Groceries
🛒0.0%
Food shopping 0.0% same
Comparing the cost of living between São Paulo, Brazil and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that São Paulo is more affordable than Lima by approximately 12.5%. 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 Lima by 7%. A one-bedroom apartment in São Paulo's city center costs around R$2,800, while the same in Lima is approximately PEN 2,000.
Dining out in São Paulo is notably more expensive compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs R$30 in São Paulo versus PEN 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in São Paulo is more expensive, with monthly passes at R$230 compared to PEN 100 in Lima.
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 Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PEN 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about R$4,375 monthly in São Paulo 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 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 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
São Paulo
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is São Paulo more expensive than Lima?
No, São Paulo is approximately 12.5% cheaper than Lima. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in São Paulo compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 89% of your Lima salary when living in São Paulo. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $44,444 in São Paulo for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between São Paulo and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 14%, 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, São Paulo provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider São Paulo if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Lima for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for São Paulo vs Lima?
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 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 São Paulo and Lima in 2025 shows notable 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 São Paulo
Calculate Salary Equivalence